Boynton Beach City criminal records are court files, arrest reports, and case details for criminal cases filed in the Boynton Beach area. Boynton Beach sits in Palm Beach County, Florida.
Most criminal cases go through the Palm Beach County Clerk of Courts or the 15th Judicial Circuit Court. Anyone can search these records for free online. You can also visit the courthouse in person or request copies for a small fee. This page explains how to search Boynton Beach criminal court records, what you can find, and where to look for felony and misdemeanor case files.
Where to Search Boynton Beach City Criminal Records
Boynton Beach falls under Palm Beach County for court purposes. The Palm Beach County Clerk of Courts keeps all criminal case files for the area. You can search records online through the Clerk’s website or visit one of the county courthouse locations. The Boynton Beach Police Department keeps arrest reports and incident logs. For statewide checks, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement runs a separate database. Each source gives you a different piece of the criminal history picture.
Palm Beach County Clerk of Courts Records
The Palm Beach County Clerk of Courts is the main record keeper for Boynton Beach criminal court records. The Clerk stores case files, dockets, court orders, and disposition records for every criminal case filed in the county. You can search their online database twenty-four hours a day. The website is mypalmbeachclerk.com. Search by name, case number, or date of birth. Basic searches are free. You pay only when you need printed or certified copies.
The Clerk’s office also offers an Official Records search. This tool shows deeds, liens, and some court filings. For criminal case searches, use the Court Records search tab on the main page. Results include case type, filing date, current status, and judge assigned. You can view hearings, motions, and final judgments through the same system.
Boynton Beach Police Department Reports
The Boynton Beach Police Department keeps arrest reports and incident reports for crimes that happen inside city limits. Their records division is at 100 East Boynton Beach Boulevard, Boynton Beach, Florida 33435. Call (561) 732-8116 for non-emergency record requests. Reports are public under Florida law. You can ask for a copy in person or by mail. A small fee applies for each copy.
The Police Department does not handle court case records. They only keep the initial reports and arrest data. For full case history, including court outcomes, use the Clerk of Courts system instead. Police arrest records show charges at booking. Court records show what happened after the case moved through the system.
Online Public Records Database
Several third-party websites collect criminal records from public sources. These sites pull data from county clerks, police departments, and state agencies. They offer search by name and state. Results often include felony, misdemeanor, and traffic offenses. Most charge a fee for full reports. Some basic data is free to view.
Third-party databases update at different speeds. Official sources like the Palm Beach County Clerk are always the most current. Use third-party sites for a quick first look. For legal or official purposes, always confirm with the Clerk’s office or FDLE directly.
Types of Boynton Beach Criminal Records
Criminal records in Boynton Beach fall into several categories. Each type tells a different part of the story. Some records cover the arrest only. Others follow the case through court. Knowing the type helps you find the right source.
Felony Court Records
Felony court records cover serious crimes like burglary, assault with a weapon, drug trafficking, and fraud. Felony cases in Boynton Beach are heard in the 15th Judicial Circuit Court. The Palm Beach County Clerk stores these records. Felony cases often take months or years to resolve. The court file includes indictments, plea agreements, trial transcripts, and sentencing orders.
Felony records stay on file forever unless sealed or expunged. They show up on background checks for jobs, housing, and licenses. You can search felony case files using the Clerk’s online portal. Look for case type “CF” followed by a number for circuit felony cases.
Misdemeanor Case Records
Misdemeanor case records cover less serious crimes like simple assault, petty theft, and minor drug possession. Misdemeanor cases in Boynton Beach go through County Court. The Palm Beach County Clerk keeps these records as well. Misdemeanors are split into first-degree and second-degree categories. First-degree misdemeanors can carry up to one year in jail.
You can search misdemeanor records the same way as felony records. Look for case type “MM” for County Misdemeanor. Some traffic offenses that count as criminal charges also appear in this category. These include DUI and reckless driving.
Traffic Criminal Records
Traffic criminal records cover offenses like DUI, driving with a suspended license, and leaving the scene of an accident. These cases go through County Court in Palm Beach County. The Clerk’s office stores the records. Traffic criminal cases appear in the same database as misdemeanor cases. You can search by name or citation number.
Regular traffic tickets that do not involve criminal charges stay with the Clerk’s Traffic Division. Those records are separate from criminal case records. DUI and criminal traffic offenses follow the standard criminal process.
Juvenile Court Records
Juvenile court records cover criminal cases for minors under 18. These records are not open to the public. Florida law seals most juvenile records automatically. Only certain people can view them, including the judge, the minor’s attorney, and law enforcement. Parents and guardians have limited access.
You cannot search juvenile criminal records through the public Clerk database. The records stay in a separate system. If a juvenile is charged as an adult, the case moves to adult court. Then the records become public like any other adult criminal case.
How to Search Boynton Beach Criminal Case Records
Searching Boynton Beach criminal case records takes a few steps. The exact method depends on the type of record you need. Most searches start with the Palm Beach County Clerk’s online portal. Have key details ready before you start.
Name-Based Criminal Search
Name-based searches work well when you only know the person’s name. The Clerk’s website lets you enter a first and last name. You can add a date of birth to narrow results. Date of birth helps when many people share the same name. Search results show case numbers, filing dates, and current status for each match.
Click on any case number to see the full docket. The docket lists every filing in the case. It shows charges, hearings, motions, and final judgment. You can also see the assigned judge and hearing dates for open cases.
Case Number Search
Case number searches give you the fastest result when you already have the number. Boynton Beach case numbers follow a clear pattern. Circuit felony cases start with “CF” and the year. County misdemeanor cases start with “MM” and the year. Traffic criminal cases start with “CT” and the year. The year and a sequence number come next.
Enter the full case number in the Clerk’s search box. The system pulls up the full file right away. This method works for people who already know the case they want to see, like attorneys or parties to the case.
Date Range Search
Date range searches help when you know roughly when a case was filed. You can set a start and end date in the Clerk’s search tool. Add a name if you have one. The system shows all cases filed in that time frame. Date range searches are useful for background checks and research projects.
The system limits results to avoid overload. You may need to narrow the date range if you get too many matches. Try a one-month window for common names. Use a wider range for unique names.
Attorney and Party Search
You can also search by attorney name or party name. The Clerk’s system lets you look up all cases linked to a specific lawyer. This helps you find cases for a legal client or research an attorney’s case history. Party searches work the same way. Enter the name of a business or person listed in the case.
Attorney searches show all cases where the lawyer appeared as counsel. This includes both sides. Plaintiff and defendant searches pull up every case where that party was involved.
Sealing and Expunging Criminal Records in Florida
Florida law lets some people seal or expunge their criminal records. Sealing hides the record from public view. Expungement destroys the record for most purposes. Not everyone qualifies. You can only seal or expunge certain charges. You also cannot have a prior sealing or expungement on your record.
Eligibility for Sealing or Expungement
You may qualify to seal or expunge a criminal record if you were never convicted, or if you received a withhold of adjudication. The charge cannot be on the list of disqualifying offenses. Serious crimes like murder, sexual battery, and child abuse cannot be sealed. Certain drug possession cases may qualify under specific programs.
You also cannot have a prior sealing, expungement, or diversion program. The waiting period depends on the outcome. For acquittals and dismissals, you can apply right away. For withholds, you must wait the time set by law after the case closes.
Application Process and Costs
You start by applying to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement for a Certificate of Eligibility. The application fee is $75. FDLE takes about twelve weeks to process the application. You must show fingerprints as part of the process. The certificate is good for one year from the date of issue.
After FDLE approves your application, you file a petition with the Palm Beach County court. The court sets a hearing date. A judge reviews the petition and makes a decision. If the judge grants the petition, the Clerk seals the court record. Law enforcement agencies must also seal their records.
What Happens After Sealing
Once a record is sealed, most people cannot see it. You can tell employers you do not have a criminal record in most cases. Some agencies still have access. These include law enforcement, courts, and certain licensing boards. Florida criminal justice agencies keep the record for internal use.
Expunged records are destroyed for most purposes. The case file no longer exists in public view. Law enforcement keeps a limited record for the purpose of responding to your petition if you ever apply again. Expungement gives the strongest level of privacy protection.
Palm Beach County Courthouse Locations
You can visit several Palm Beach County courthouse locations for in-person record searches. Each location handles different case types. The main courthouse in West Palm Beach holds most criminal cases. Branch courthouses serve other parts of the county, including the Boynton Beach area.
Main Courthouse in West Palm Beach
The main Palm Beach County Courthouse is at 205 North Dixie Highway, West Palm Beach, Florida 33401. This courthouse handles all circuit criminal cases for the county. The Clerk’s main office is also at this location. You can search records in person at the public access terminals in the lobby. Staff are available to help during business hours.
The courthouse opens Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Closed on weekends and court holidays. Phone (561) 355-2996 for Clerk’s office questions. Bring a valid ID and any case details you have. Public parking is available nearby for a fee.
South County Courthouse in Delray Beach
The South County Courthouse is at 200 West Atlantic Avenue, Delray Beach, Florida 33444. This location serves the southern part of Palm Beach County, including Boynton Beach. It handles some county criminal cases, traffic cases, and civil filings. The Clerk has a satellite office here as well.
Hours match the main courthouse. You can access public terminals and request copies at this location. For most felony cases, you still need to visit the main courthouse. South County handles many misdemeanors and traffic criminal offenses.
North County Courthouse in Palm Beach Gardens
The North County Courthouse is at 3188 PGA Boulevard, Palm Beach Gardens, Florida 33410. This location serves the northern part of the county. It handles a range of case types, including some criminal cases. Records searches are available here for cases filed at this location.
Check the Palm Beach County Clerk’s website to find out which courthouse holds your case. The website has a case search tool that shows the courthouse location. You can also call the Clerk’s main number for help.
Statewide Criminal History Checks
Statewide criminal checks pull records from every county in Florida. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement runs the main statewide database. You can search the database online for a fee. Results cover all Florida counties, including Boynton Beach. Out-of-state records do not show up in the Florida system.
FDLE Computerized Criminal History System
The FDLE runs the CCHInet system. This is the statewide criminal history database. It pulls records from every Florida county clerk and law enforcement agency. You can search by name and date of birth. The cost is $24 per search, plus a $1 processing fee for credit card payments. Total is $25 per search.
Search results include arrests, charges, and dispositions when reported. The database is updated as new records come in. You can access the system at cchinet.fdle.state.fl.us. Search results show instantly online. You can print or save the report after payment.
Florida Department of Corrections Records
The Florida Department of Corrections tracks state prison inmates. You can search their database for free. The search covers current inmates and people on community supervision. It also covers people released from prison. The database shows facility location, sentence details, and release date.
Visit fdc.myflorida.com to use the inmate search tool. Search by name or Department of Corrections number. This is a free public service. It only covers people sentenced to state prison. County jail inmates do not appear in this database.
Costs and Fees for Criminal Records
Most online searches through the Clerk’s portal are free. You pay for printed copies, certified copies, and statewide background checks. Fee amounts are set by Florida law. The Clerk’s office accepts cash, checks, money orders, and credit cards for in-person payments.
Online Search Costs
Basic online searches through the Palm Beach County Clerk portal are free. You can view case information, dockets, and hearing schedules at no charge. The cost only applies when you need a printed or certified document. Online viewing does not include certified copies.
The FDLE statewide search costs $24 plus a $1 credit card fee. Total is $25 per name search. You can pay online with a credit card. Results show up right after payment. You can print the report for your records.
Certified Copy Fees
Certified copies of court records cost more than regular copies. The Clerk charges a fee for the certification itself. Standard copies are cheaper. The exact fees are listed on the Clerk’s website. You can also call to confirm current rates before you visit.
Certified copies include an official seal and signature. They are accepted for court filings, immigration cases, and other legal uses. Regular copies only work for personal records. Plan ahead if you need certified documents for a deadline.
Florida Public Records Act and Criminal Records
Florida’s Public Records Act gives broad access to government records. Section 119.07 of Florida Statutes is the main law. It covers criminal court records held by the Clerk. The law says anyone can inspect or copy public records. You do not need to give a reason for your request.
Records Open to the Public
Most adult criminal records are public in Florida. You can view case files, dockets, and court orders. Final judgments and sentencing orders are public. Plea agreements filed with the court are public. Arrest records and incident reports are public. Bond amounts and release dates are public.
You can request these records at the Clerk’s office or through the online portal. The Clerk must provide access during business hours. They cannot delay the request without a legal reason. Most requests are handled the same day.
Records Not Open to the Public
Some records stay sealed by law. Juvenile records are not public. Sealed and expunged records are not public. Active criminal investigation records may be exempt while the case is open. Victim information may be redacted in some cases. Mental health evaluation records linked to a case are often sealed.
You also cannot access records that would put someone at risk. Witness protection records stay confidential. Informant identities are protected. Grand jury proceedings are sealed by law. Some pretrial motions are sealed by court order.
Frequently Asked Questions About Boynton Beach Criminal Records
This section covers common questions about searching Boynton Beach criminal records. The answers explain rules, fees, and processes. Each question reflects a real concern people have when looking for criminal case files in Palm Beach County.
How long do criminal records stay on file in Florida?
Adult criminal records in Florida stay on file permanently unless they are sealed or expunged. The Palm Beach County Clerk keeps criminal case files forever. The Florida Department of Law Enforcement also keeps arrest and disposition records permanently. These records show up on background checks for the rest of a person’s life. The only way to remove a record from public view is to go through the formal sealing or expungement process. That process has strict eligibility rules. Not everyone qualifies. People who were never convicted and meet other requirements have the best chance of getting a record sealed.
Can I view Boynton Beach criminal records for free?
Yes, you can view most Boynton Beach criminal records for free through the Palm Beach County Clerk’s online portal. The portal lets you search by name, case number, or date. You can view case status, hearing dates, charges, and docket entries at no cost. You only pay when you need a printed or certified copy. The statewide FDLE search costs $25 per name. The Clerk’s online tool is the best free resource for local Boynton Beach and Palm Beach County cases.
What details do I need to search for a criminal case?
A person’s full legal name is the most helpful detail. A date of birth helps narrow results when many people share the same name. A case number gives you the fastest result if you already have it. The year the case was filed also helps. You do not need all of these. A name alone often works. The more details you have, the faster you find the right case.
How do I find out if someone is in jail in Boynton Beach?
The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office runs the county jail. You can search their inmate database online through the PBSO website. The database shows current inmates at the main jail and work release facilities. You can search by name. Results show charges, bond amount, and booking date. You can also call the jail directly for information. The main jail number is listed on the PBSO website.
Can I remove a criminal record from public view in Florida?
Yes, under certain conditions. You can apply to seal or expunge a record if you qualify under Florida law. You must get a Certificate of Eligibility from FDLE first. The cost is $75. After FDLE approves, you file a court petition. A judge makes the final decision. Not all charges qualify. Serious crimes like murder and sexual offenses cannot be sealed. You also cannot have a prior sealing or expungement on your record.
What is the difference between sealed and expunged records?
Sealed records stay in the system but are hidden from public view. Most employers and the general public cannot see them. Law enforcement and courts can still access sealed records. Expunged records are destroyed for most purposes. The case file no longer exists in public view. Law enforcement keeps a limited record to respond to future petitions. Expungement gives stronger privacy protection. Sealing is more common because the rules are easier to meet.
How do I get a certified copy of a court order?
Visit the Palm Beach County Clerk’s office in person to request a certified copy. Bring a valid ID and the case number if you have it. Pay the certified copy fee. The Clerk stamps the document with an official seal. You can also request certified copies by mail. Send a written request with the case number and a check for the fee. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope for the return. Processing times vary based on workload.
Official Contact Resources for Boynton Beach Criminal Records
Use these official sources for Boynton Beach City criminal records. Each link leads to a government website. Phone numbers and addresses are current as of 2026.
Palm Beach County Clerk of Courts
Website: mypalmbeachclerk.com
Main Office Phone: (561) 355-2996
Address: 205 North Dixie Highway, West Palm Beach, FL 33401
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Boynton Beach Police Department
Website: boyntonbeachfl.gov
Non-Emergency Phone: (561) 732-8116
Address: 100 East Boynton Beach Boulevard, Boynton Beach, FL 33435
Hours: Records Division, Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Florida Department of Law Enforcement
Website: fdle.state.fl.us
CCHInet Search: cchinet.fdle.state.fl.us
Phone: (850) 410-7000
Address: 2331 Phillips Road, Tallahassee, FL 32308
Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office
Website: pbso.org
Phone: (561) 688-3000
Main Address: 3228 Gun Club Road, West Palm Beach, FL 33406