Gaston County Clerk Of Court Records keeps all public court files safe and easy to find. The office is at 236 South Mint Street in Gastonia, NC 28052. People can ask for records by mail, online, or in person from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday to Friday. You need to give the case number, names of people in the case, and the date range. If you go in person, staff can pull your file the same day. Copies cost $10 per page. Certified copies cost $25. Call 704-734-8000 or email clerk@gastongov.com for help.
How to Get Gaston County Court Records
You can get court records three ways: by mail, online, or in person. For mail requests, send a signed form with your name, case number, and what you need. Use a money order made out to Gaston County Clerk. Mail to PO Box 1578, Gastonia, NC 28053. In-person visits are fastest. Bring a photo ID. Staff will find your file and print copies while you wait. Online access is free through the North Carolina Judicial Branch portal. You can search by name or case number. Results show docket entries, hearing dates, and motions. Download or print right from your computer.
What Records Are Available
The clerk’s office has civil, criminal, family, and probate records. Civil cases include lawsuits, contracts, and small claims. Criminal files show charges, court dates, and sentences. Family court covers divorce, custody, and child support. Probate records include wills, estates, and guardianships. Not all files are public. Some are sealed by law or court order. Juvenile cases, adoption files, and certain domestic violence records are private. Always ask staff if a record is open to the public before you request it.
Fees and Payment Options
Standard copies cost $10 per page. Certified copies cost $25 each. Bulk orders of 10 or more pages get a 10% discount. Pay with cash, check, or money order in person. For mail requests, use a money order only. Credit cards are not accepted by mail. Online searches are free, but printing or downloading may have a small fee. The office charges $5 for electronic downloads. All fees go to the county’s general fund to support court operations.
Online Access to Court Records
The North Carolina Judicial Branch website lets you search Gaston County court records for free. Go to nccourts.gov and click “Locations” then “Gaston County.” Use the docket search tool to find cases by party name, case number, or date. Results show court events, filings, and upcoming hearings. You can print or save results as PDFs. The system updates every night. It does not include sealed or confidential cases. For full case files, you must visit the clerk’s office or request by mail.
https://www.nccourts.gov/locations/gaston-county 
In-Person Visit Tips
Visit the Clerk’s Building at 236 South Mint Street in Gastonia. Parking is free in the front lot. The office opens at 8 a.m. and closes at 5 p.m. on weekdays. Arrive early to avoid lines. Bring a valid photo ID like a driver’s license or passport. Tell the front desk what record you need. Staff will help you fill out a request form. Most files are ready in 15 minutes. Large or old cases may take longer. You can wait or come back later. The office has self-service kiosks to search case numbers and print summaries.
Mail Request Instructions
Send a letter with your full name, phone number, case number, party names, and date range. Include a signed statement saying you are requesting public records. Attach a money order for the correct fee. Make it payable to “Gaston County Clerk.” Mail to PO Box 1578, Gastonia, NC 28053. Processing takes 5 to 7 business days. The office will mail copies to your address. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope to speed things up. Do not send cash. Only money orders or checks are accepted by mail.
Certified vs. Standard Copies
Standard copies are for personal use. They have a stamp that says “Copy” and are not legal proof. Certified copies have an official seal and clerk’s signature. Courts, banks, and government agencies accept them as valid. Use certified copies for name changes, immigration, or legal disputes. Both types cost the same to print, but certification adds $15. You can get certified copies in person or by mail. In person, staff certifies them while you wait. By mail, add $15 to your money order.
Vital Records at the Courthouse
The Register of Deeds office, on the first floor of the courthouse, handles birth, death, and marriage records. Birth certificates go back to 1900. Death records start in 1913. Marriage licenses date to 1848. You can get copies in person or by mail. Bring a photo ID. Mail requests need a money order. Certified birth certificates cost $15. Death certificates cost $10. Marriage licenses cost $12. The office is open Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday hours are 9 a.m. to noon.
Real Estate and Land Records
Land deeds, mortgages, and liens are kept by the Register of Deeds. Records go back to 1845. You can search online for free at the NC Gov portal. In person, staff helps you find deeds, maps, and plats. Standard copies cost $1 per page. Certified copies cost $20. The office also handles UCC filings for business loans and notary services. All records are public unless sealed by court order. The office updates its index every night.
https://www.gastongov.com/government/departments/register_of_deeds/legal_documents_available.php
Court Hours and Contact Info
The Gaston County Courthouse is at 325 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Way in Gastonia. The clerk’s office is open Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. The phone number is 704-734-2100. For record requests, call 704-734-8000 or email clerk@gastongov.com. The courthouse has free parking, wheelchair access, and Spanish interpreters on request. The information desk is next to City Hall. Staff can give directions and help with forms.
Clerk Carla L. Smith
Clerk Carla L. Smith was elected in 2022. She leads the office for a seven-year term. Her team manages court orders, liens, probate filings, and marriage licenses. She works with the state Department of Justice for background checks. Her office keeps the official court seal and ensures all records follow state law. You can reach her at 704-734-2100 during office hours.
http://www.clerk-of-courts.com/north-carolina/gaston-county-clerk-of-court/
Language and Accessibility Services
The courthouse offers Spanish interpreters for free. Ask at the front desk or call ahead. Written translations of common forms are available. The building is ADA-compliant with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms. Large-print forms and hearing loops are on request. Staff can read documents aloud if needed. All services follow North Carolina’s language access policy.
Jury Duty and Court Rules
Jurors register online at the NC Judicial Branch site. You’ll get a summons by mail with your date and location. Dress neatly and arrive early. The courthouse posts rules for behavior, dress, and electronics. No phones in courtrooms. First-time jurors get a guide at the clerk’s counter. For questions, call 704-734-2453.
Common Reasons to Request Records
People ask for court records to check their own history, prepare for a case, or help a family member. Employers may need background checks. Lawyers use them for research. Genealogists look at old probate files. Always give a clear reason when you request. This helps staff find the right file faster.
What Records Are Not Public
Some records are not open to the public. These include juvenile cases, adoption files, mental health records, and certain domestic violence cases. Sealed records are closed by court order. You must get permission from a judge to see them. Staff will tell you if a record is restricted.
How to Correct a Record
If you find a mistake in a court record, tell the clerk’s office right away. Bring proof like a birth certificate or ID. Staff will start a correction form. A judge must approve changes to official files. This can take weeks. Keep a copy of your request for your records.
Bulk and Research Requests
For large requests, call ahead. The office offers bulk discounts for 10 or more pages. Researchers and journalists can schedule appointments. Staff will pull files in advance. There is a $5 fee for electronic downloads. Allow extra time for old or archived cases.
Self-Service Kiosks
The lobby has self-service kiosks. You can search case numbers, view docket entries, and print summaries. The machines accept cash and cards. They are free to use. Staff is nearby to help if you get stuck.
Online Docket Search Tips
Use the NC Courts website to search by name or case number. Type the last name first. Use partial names if you’re not sure of the spelling. Results show court dates, motions, and filings. Click on a case to see more details. Save or print results as PDFs.
Traffic Tickets and Small Claims
Traffic tickets are handled in the criminal division. You can pay fines online or in person. Small claims cases are in civil court. Files show claims, judgments, and payments. Both are public unless sealed.
Probate and Estate Records
Probate records include wills, estate inventories, and guardianship orders. These are open to the public. You can search by the deceased person’s name. Copies cost $10 per page. Certified copies cost $25.
Marriage Licenses
The clerk issues marriage licenses. You need ID and a fee of $60. Licenses are valid for 60 days. Both parties must apply in person. The office keeps records from 1848 to today.
Divorce Decrees
Divorce files show final judgments, property splits, and custody orders. These are public unless sealed. You can get copies in person or by mail. Certified copies are needed for name changes or remarriage.
Background Checks
The clerk’s office does not run background checks. Contact the NC Department of Public Safety or use a private service. The office only provides court records you request.
Record Retention Policy
The office keeps active files on site. Older records go to the state archive. Most files are kept forever. Some financial records are kept for 10 years. Ask staff if you need an old file.
Holiday Closures
The office is closed on federal holidays like New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. Check the website for special closures.
Emergency Requests
In emergencies like evictions or custody hearings, staff can rush a request. Call 704-734-8000 and explain the situation. You may get same-day service.
Fraud and Scam Alerts
Watch out for fake emails or calls asking for money to “release” records. The real office never asks for payment by phone. All fees are paid in person or by mail. Report scams to the clerk or local police.
Contact and Location Summary
Main Office: 236 South Mint Street, Gastonia, NC 28052
Courthouse: 325 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Way, Gastonia, NC 28052
Phone: 704-734-8000 (records), 704-734-2100 (clerk)
Email: clerk@gastongov.com
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–4 p.m.
Frequently Asked Questions
People often ask how to get court records, what they cost, and how long it takes. Below are answers to the most common questions. Each answer gives clear steps and real details to help you get what you need fast.
How do I get a copy of my divorce decree from Gaston County?
You can get your divorce decree in person, by mail, or online. Go to the clerk’s office at 236 South Mint Street with a photo ID. Ask for the civil division. Give the case number or your full name and the date of the divorce. Copies cost $10 per page. Certified copies cost $25 and have an official seal. For mail requests, send a letter with your name, case number, and a money order made out to “Gaston County Clerk.” Mail to PO Box 1578, Gastonia, NC 28053. Processing takes 5 to 7 days. Online, search the NC Courts docket by name. Print the decree from your computer. If the case is old, it may be in the state archive. Call 704-734-8000 to check. Always bring ID to prove you are part of the case.
Can I search Gaston County court records online for free?
Yes, you can search for free on the North Carolina Judicial Branch website. Go to nccourts.gov and click “Locations,” then “Gaston County.” Use the docket search tool to find cases by name or case number. Results show court dates, motions, and filings. You can view and print them at no cost. The system does not include sealed or confidential cases. For full case files, you must visit the office or request by mail. Online searches are updated nightly. You do not need to register. Just type the last name first and use partial names if needed. This is the fastest way to check if a case exists.
What is the difference between a standard copy and a certified copy of a court record?
A standard copy is a regular printout with a “Copy” stamp. It is for personal use and not accepted by courts or government agencies. A certified copy has an official seal and the clerk’s signature. It is legal proof and accepted for name changes, immigration, or legal disputes. Both cost $10 to print, but certification adds $15. You can get certified copies in person or by mail. In person, staff certifies them while you wait. By mail, add $15 to your money order. Always ask for certified copies if you need them for official purposes.
How long does it take to get court records by mail from Gaston County?
Mail requests take 5 to 7 business days to process. Send a signed letter with your name, case number, party names, and date range. Include a money order made out to “Gaston County Clerk.” Mail to PO Box 1578, Gastonia, NC 28053. The office will mail copies to your address. To speed things up, include a self-addressed stamped envelope. Do not send cash. Only money orders or checks are accepted. Large or old cases may take longer. Call 704-734-8000 to check the status.
Are juvenile court records in Gaston County public?
No, juvenile court records are not public. They are sealed by law to protect minors. Only the child’s parents, lawyers, or court staff can see them. If you need access, you must get permission from a judge. File a motion with the clerk’s office and attend a hearing. The judge will decide if your request is valid. Do not assume you can get these records without approval. Staff will tell you if a file is restricted.
Can I get a background check from the Gaston County Clerk of Court?
No, the clerk’s office does not run background checks. They only provide court records you request. For a full background check, contact the North Carolina Department of Public Safety or use a private service. The office can give you court files, but not a complete criminal history. If an employer needs proof, ask them to contact the state or hire a licensed agency. The clerk’s role is to keep and release public court documents, not to screen people.
What should I do if I find a mistake in a Gaston County court record?
Tell the clerk’s office right away. Bring proof like a birth certificate, ID, or other official document. Staff will give you a correction form. Fill it out and submit it with your evidence. A judge must approve any changes to official files. This process can take weeks. Keep a copy of your request and all documents. Do not try to fix it yourself. Only the court can change records. If the error affects your rights, talk to a lawyer.
Official Links and Resources
North Carolina Judicial Branch – https://www.nccourts.gov/locations/gaston-county
Gaston County Register of Deeds – https://www.gastongov.com/government/departments/register_of_deeds
Gaston County Clerk Email – clerk@gastongov.com
Phone – 704-734-8000 (records), 704-734-2100 (clerk)
Office Hours – Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.