Case Lookup: Fast Court Case Records & Status Search Online

Case Lookup gives anyone a clear path to public court case information when a legal matter surfaces. By entering a case number, a party name, an attorney of record, or a filing date, users can retrieve case details, case status, and case history from the court case database. The system supports case lookup by number, case lookup by name, and case lookup by attorney, making it possible to find a case record search result for civil case, criminal case, family case, probate case, or traffic case. A court case lookup online often reveals the docket, the assigned judge, the filing court, and the latest case outcome, whether the case remains active, pending, closed, disposed, or appealed. Users who wonder how to look up a court case can start with the exact case identifier or use the searchable case title to narrow results. This approach also answers how to check a court case status, how to find a court case outcome, and how to locate court case documents without navigating multiple unrelated portals.

Case Lookup also serves researchers who need to verify case information for background checks, news reports, or personal matters. The platform’s case record lookup online feature lets users search public court cases by case number lookup, by filing date, or by attorney name, delivering the docket number, case title, and party roles such as plaintiff, defendant, petitioner, or respondent. When a user asks how to find an attorney on a court case, the system pulls the attorney of record and the representing attorney’s contact details as listed in the official record. For those asking how often is case information updated, most courts refresh their database nightly, so the most recent filing events appear shortly after they are entered. If a query returns “why can’t I find a court case,” the likely causes include a sealed file, a recent filing not yet digitized, or searching the wrong court division. By following the case identifier, case type, and docket number, anyone can locate a case history, see case disposition, and obtain the necessary court case documents for active, pending, or closed matters.

How to Search Case Lookup

Case Lookup lets you search public court case information through the official Missouri CaseNet system, which covers St. Louis County Courts under the 21st Judicial Circuit. Residents can also access official family court records to verify current details. You can begin a lookup with a case identifier, a party name, an attorney name, or a filing date, and the portal returns the matching docket, party roles, and case activity. The system supports case lookup by number, case lookup by name, and case lookup by attorney, giving you a direct path to find court case records without contacting the clerk’s office in person.

You should treat the portal as your starting point for any question about how to look up a court case, how to check a court case status, or how to find a court case outcome. The database refreshes regularly so recent filings, motions, and judgments appear shortly after the clerk enters them. For sealed files, juvenile matters, or expunged records, the public portal will not display content, and you would need to contact the court directly for restricted access procedures.

Official Search Portal: https://www.courts.mo.gov/casenet/base/welcome.do

Steps to Search

1. Open the Missouri CaseNet welcome page using the official portal URL listed above.
2. Select “Case Search” from the public access menu to reach the lookup screen.
3. Choose your search method: case number, party name, attorney bar number, or filing date range.
4. Enter the required identifier exactly as it appears on court paperwork, including any prefix letters for the division.
5. Select the correct court location (St. Louis County) if the portal offers a location filter.
6. Review the result list and click the matching case number to open the full docket.
7. Use the docket tabs to view party information, case events, filings, and the latest case status update.

Case Lookup by Case Number

Case lookup by case number is the fastest and most accurate way to pull a specific docket from the St. Louis County Courts system. Each case filed in the 21st Judicial Circuit receives a unique case identifier, often formatted with a two-letter prefix for the division followed by the year and a sequential number. Entering this exact identifier in the CaseNet portal returns the case title, the filing date, the assigned judge, and the full chronological list of case events.

You should use case lookup by case number when you already have paperwork, a subpoena, a hearing notice, or a citation that lists the docket reference. The portal will display the case type, the party names, the attorney of record, and any pending motions or judgments tied to the matter. If the portal returns “case not found,” check the prefix letters against the division where the case was filed, since a small typo can produce a no-match result.

For older records, archived cases, or matters that predate the digital upload window, the case identifier alone may not produce a result. In those situations, you can combine a case number lookup with a filing date range or party name to widen the search and confirm the record exists in the case database before requesting certified copies from the clerk’s office.

Case Lookup by Party Name

Case lookup by party name lets you find a court case when you do not have the docket number but know who was involved. You can search by last name, first name, or business name, and the portal returns a list of cases where that party appears as plaintiff, defendant, petitioner, or respondent. Each result shows the case title, the filing year, the case type, and the court division so you can identify the correct matter from the list.

You should enter the party name carefully, since similar spellings can return overlapping or incomplete results. If the person has a common last name, adding a first name, middle initial, or approximate filing date helps narrow the result list and reduces the chance of confusing two unrelated cases. The portal does not redact party names for public civil, criminal, traffic, or probate matters, so members stay covered under public access rules.

Court case lookup by name is useful for employers running background checks, journalists verifying a matter, or individuals tracking a personal legal issue. Once you find the right docket, the case record search result page links to party details, attorney information, and the case event history so you can confirm whether the matter remains active, pending, closed, or disposed.

Case Lookup by Attorney Name

Case lookup by attorney name gives you a way to find every case where a specific lawyer appears as attorney of record. By entering the attorney’s full name or bar number, the portal lists the cases they have filed or appeared in within St. Louis County. This method is useful when you need to verify a lawyer’s involvement in a matter or check whether an attorney has handled cases similar to yours.

You should use case lookup by attorney when you have a representation letter, a court order, or a published opinion that lists the lawyer’s name. The portal returns the case title, the party role of the lawyer (representing plaintiff, representing defendant, or guardian ad litem), the filing date, and the current case status. You can click each result to open the full docket and review the attorney of record line for every case event.

For law firms tracking caseloads, or clients verifying who handled their file, attorney-based search saves time because it groups all related matters in one result list. If the attorney name returns too many results, combine the search with a date range or a specific case type to filter the docket list and locate the right case record search outcome faster.

Case Lookup by Filing Date

Case lookup by filing date helps you find cases when you know roughly when a matter was opened but lack the docket number or full party name. You can enter a start date and end date to return every case filed within that window, and the portal displays the case title, case type, court division, and filing party for each entry. This approach works well for journalists, researchers, and legal professionals tracking a category of cases over time.

You should narrow the filing date range as much as possible to avoid pulling an unmanageable list of results. Adding a case type filter (civil, criminal, family, probate, or traffic) and a court division selector further refines the search so you can locate the specific matter you need. The portal sorts results chronologically and displays the docket number for each filing so you can open the full record.

Date-based search also helps when you want to verify whether a matter was actually filed, since the filing date appears on every official court document. If the portal returns no records for a date you believe a filing occurred, the entry may not yet be digitized, or the clerk may still be processing the case file for public access. Waiting 24 to 48 hours and re-running the search often resolves the issue.

Case Lookup by Court or Division

Case lookup by court or division lets you filter results to a specific court location within the 21st Judicial Circuit. St. Louis County Courts operate multiple divisions, including civil, criminal, family, probate, juvenile, and traffic, and each division maintains its own case index. Selecting the correct division before searching reduces false matches and ensures the docket you retrieve aligns with the right jurisdiction.

You should know the division before starting a search, since case numbers carry division-specific prefixes that signal where the matter was filed. For example, civil matters use one set of prefixes, criminal matters use another, and family or probate cases use yet another set of identifiers. Matching the prefix to the division ensures the case number lookup returns a valid docket rather than a “case not found” message.

If you are unsure of the division, you can use a broader party-name or attorney-name search first to identify which court handled the matter, then refine future searches with that information. Court case lookup by division also helps when you need to confirm which judge is assigned, which courtroom hears the matter, and what local procedural rules apply to the case.

Information Needed for a Case Lookup

Information needed for a case lookup depends on the search method you choose, but a few core data points improve accuracy across every approach. The most useful identifiers include the case number, the full legal name of at least one party, the attorney bar number or attorney name, and the approximate filing date. Having one or two of these data points ready before you start saves time and reduces the chance of pulling an unrelated docket.

You should also confirm the court division and case type before searching, since St. Louis County Courts handle many categories of matters under separate dockets. A civil case lookup looks different from a criminal case lookup, a family case lookup, or a probate case lookup, and the portal returns different fields depending on the case type you select. The following list covers the core inputs the portal accepts:

• Case number (including division prefix and year)
• Party first and last name, or business name
• Attorney bar number or full attorney name
• Filing date range (start date and end date)
• Case type filter (civil, criminal, family, probate, juvenile, traffic)
• Court division selector (St. Louis County, 21st Judicial Circuit)

With these inputs ready, you can complete a court case lookup online in a few minutes, open the docket, and review the full case record search result.

Case Lookup Results

Case lookup results present the docket in a structured format that shows the core identifiers and the current status of the matter. Once you submit a search, the portal returns the case number, the case title, the filing court, and the assigned judge. From there, you can open the docket to view party details, attorney information, case events, and any orders or judgments entered in the record.

You should read the results carefully, since public dockets often show abbreviated party names, abbreviated attorney names, and shorthand references to filings. Cross-checking the case title against the party list and the filing date confirms you have the correct matter before you rely on the data for any official purpose. If anything looks wrong, re-run the search with a different identifier to verify the record.

Case Number and Case Title

Case number and case title are the two primary identifiers on every search result. The case number uses a division-specific prefix, the year of filing, and a sequential sequence number that the clerk assigns at intake. The case title lists the parties by role, such as “Smith v. Jones” for a civil matter or “State of Missouri v. Jones” for a criminal matter, and the title stays consistent throughout the life of the case.

You should use both fields together when confirming a record, since either one alone can match multiple unrelated matters. The case number is unique within the court, while the case title may recur if the same parties file separate matters in different years. Combining the case number with the case title and the filing date gives you a precise match every time.

Party Names and Roles

Party names and roles appear in the docket header and list each individual or entity involved in the matter along with their legal position. Common roles include plaintiff, defendant, petitioner, respondent, garnishee, third-party defendant, and intervenor. Each role indicates how that party participates in the litigation and what kind of filings or responses they may submit.

You should review the party section carefully to confirm the spelling of each name, since typos at filing can persist in the public record. If you need to confirm whether a specific individual is connected to a matter, the party section gives you a direct answer without requiring a separate name search. The portal also lists aliases or “doing business as” names when the court has formally recorded them.

Attorney Information

Attorney information appears in the docket alongside the party they represent and shows the lawyer’s name, bar number, firm address, and contact details as filed with the court. The portal lists the attorney of record, the representing attorney, and any co-counsel or guardian ad litem appointed to the matter. You can click the attorney name to view every case they have filed in St. Louis County.

You should verify attorney information before contacting a lawyer listed on a docket, since attorneys may have moved firms, withdrawn from a matter, or been substituted by another lawyer. The portal updates attorney details when the clerk enters a motion to substitute counsel or a notice of withdrawal. For older records, the listed contact details may no longer be current, so a separate verification call is helpful before reaching out.

Court and Assigned Judge

Court and assigned judge information appears at the top of every docket and shows which division of the 21st Judicial Circuit handles the matter, along with the name of the presiding judge. The court field confirms the filing location (St. Louis County), and the assigned judge field names the judicial officer responsible for case management, motions, and trial.

You should note the assigned judge when preparing for a hearing or filing a motion, since each judge may have local rules, scheduling preferences, or case-procedure requirements. If the assigned judge changes due to a recusal or reassignment, the portal updates the field and adds a docket entry explaining the reassignment. Cross-referencing the judge with the hearing date helps confirm which courtroom to attend for any scheduled event.

Filing Date and Case Type

Filing date and case type appear together in the docket header and show when the matter was opened and what category of case the court treats it as. Common case types include civil, criminal, family, probate, juvenile, misdemeanor, felony, and traffic. The filing date marks the official start of the matter and serves as the anchor point for statute-of-limitations questions and procedural deadlines.

You should record both fields when documenting a case for legal, research, or personal reference. The filing date confirms the timeline of events, while the case type tells you which procedural rules, filing requirements, and hearing formats apply. Many courts also display the case subtype (such as dissolution, custody, or contract dispute) for more precise categorization.

Case Status

Case status shows the current state of the matter within the court system. Common status labels include active, pending, open, closed, disposed, dismissed, resolved, and appealed. The status field updates as the clerk enters new orders, judgments, or dismissal paperwork, and it gives you a quick snapshot of whether the case is still moving or has reached a final resolution.

You should review the case status before relying on the docket for any official purpose, since the status may lag behind the most recent filing by a short window. If you need the absolute most current status, contact the clerk’s office or check the docket for the latest event date. The status field also helps you decide whether to monitor the case for future updates or close your review.

Case Disposition

Case disposition records the final outcome of the matter once the court enters a judgment, dismissal, or other terminating order. Dispositions can include guilty verdict, not guilty verdict, judgment for plaintiff, judgment for defendant, dismissed with prejudice, dismissed without prejudice, settled, or transferred. The disposition field stays on the docket permanently and forms the basis for any post-judgment action.

You should read the disposition alongside the judgment date to confirm when the matter ended and whether any appeal window remains open. A disposition of “dismissed without prejudice” means the plaintiff can refile, while “dismissed with prejudice” ends the matter permanently. Disposition data is also useful for background checks, record corrections, and research on case outcomes.

Case Information

Case information covers everything the docket shows about the substance of the matter, from the initial filing through the final judgment. This includes the case filing details, the claims or charges at issue, the case events and proceedings, the orders and judgments entered, and the case outcome. Reviewing this section gives you a complete picture of how the court processed the matter from start to finish.

You should read case information in chronological order to follow the procedural history, since early filings set the stage for later motions and rulings. The portal sorts docket entries by date, so the top of the list shows the earliest events and the bottom shows the latest actions. This format helps you trace the path of the matter without missing key intermediate steps.

Case Filing Details

Case filing details show the initial paperwork that opened the matter, including the petition, complaint, indictment, or information filed by the initiating party. This section lists the filing party, the filing date, the document type, and a brief description of what the filing requested from the court. It also shows any filing fees paid and the assigned docket number.

You should review case filing details first when researching a matter, since the initial filing explains the cause of action, the relief sought, and the parties’ legal positions. The filing details section also indicates whether the matter was filed as a new case or transferred from another court, which affects how prior proceedings carry over into the new docket.

Charges and Allegations

Charges and allegations appear in criminal and juvenile dockets and list the statutory violations the State has filed against the defendant. Each charge includes the statute number, the charge level (misdemeanor or felony), and a short summary of the alleged conduct. The portal groups related charges so you can see whether the matter involves a single incident or several separate events.

You should note each charge carefully, since charge reductions, amendments, or dismissals change the legal posture of the case as the matter progresses. The portal updates the charge list when the State files an amended information or when the court dismisses specific counts. Comparing the original charges to the final disposition shows how the matter resolved.

Claims and Issues

Claims and issues appear in civil dockets and describe the legal theories the plaintiff has raised against the defendant. This section lists each cause of action, the relevant statute or common-law basis, and a short description of the harm alleged. For complex litigation, the claims section may run several pages and reference multiple theories.

You should read the claims section alongside any answer or counterclaim filed by the defendant, since the response shapes which issues remain in dispute. The portal shows counterclaims, cross-claims, and third-party claims in the same section so you can see the full scope of the contested matters. Reviewing the claims list also helps you understand what relief the court could grant if the plaintiff prevails.

Case Events and Proceedings

Case events and proceedings form the chronological backbone of the docket and list every filing, hearing, motion, and order entered in the matter. Each event shows the date, the type of event, the party responsible for the filing, and a brief description. The portal groups events by category so you can filter for hearings, motions, orders, or judgments.

You should use the events section to track the procedural history and prepare for upcoming hearings. The events list also confirms whether deadlines have been met, since missed filings appear in the chronology with the actual filing date rather than the original due date. For appeals, the events section shows when the notice of appeal was filed and how the appellate court processed the matter.

Orders and Judgments

Orders and judgments list every ruling the court has entered in the matter, including interim orders on motions, final judgments, and post-judgment orders. Each entry shows the date, the judge who signed the order, the type of order, and a short summary of the ruling. The portal links to the full order document when the clerk has uploaded it to the case file.

You should review the orders and judgments section before taking any post-judgment action, since appeal deadlines run from the date the court enters the final judgment. The section also shows whether the court has stayed execution, granted a new trial, or modified an earlier ruling. For collection matters, the judgments section confirms the amount owed and the terms of payment.

Case Outcome

Case outcome summarizes how the matter ended and ties together the disposition, the judgment date, and any post-judgment activity. Outcomes can include judgment for plaintiff, judgment for defendant, settlement, dismissal, guilty plea, conviction after trial, acquittal, or transfer. The outcome section also lists any restitution, fines, or attorney-fee awards the court ordered.

You should record the case outcome for any official purpose, since the outcome appears on background checks, credit reports, and legal records. The portal keeps the outcome visible even after the case closes, so historical outcomes remain accessible for research, verification, and record-correction purposes. If the outcome contains an error, you can file a motion to correct the record with the clerk’s office.

Related Case Information

Related case information lists any companion matters, consolidated cases, or linked dockets that share parties, attorneys, or subject matter. The portal flags related cases so you can see how multiple filings interact, including cases that have been consolidated for trial, transferred between divisions, or stayed pending the outcome of another matter.

You should check the related case section when researching a complex matter, since a single legal dispute may produce several dockets across different divisions. For example, a divorce filing may link to a separate custody docket, a protective-order matter, or a support-enforcement case. Reviewing related cases ensures you have the full picture of the litigation.

Case Status

Case status gives you a snapshot of where the matter stands in the court system at the moment you run the search. The portal displays one status label per case, and the label changes as the court enters new orders or terminating paperwork. Reviewing the status helps you decide whether the matter is still active, whether a judgment has been entered, or whether an appeal is pending.

You should treat the status field as a starting point rather than the definitive answer, since the portal updates status entries on a processing cycle. If you need the most current status, cross-check the latest docket entry or contact the clerk’s office. The status field also helps you filter search results when reviewing a large list of cases tied to one party or attorney.

Active Cases

Active cases are matters that the court is currently processing and that have no terminating order, dismissal, or judgment on file. The portal labels these cases as “active” and continues to accept new filings, motions, and orders in the docket. Residents can also access official traffic ticket records to verify current details. Active cases appear at the top of most searches and show the latest hearing date or pending motion in the events section.

You should monitor active cases regularly if you are a party, attorney, or interested observer, since new filings and orders appear throughout the life of the matter. The portal sends no automatic notifications, so checking the docket periodically is the only way to stay current. For high-volume matters, you can subscribe to court updates through the clerk’s office if that service is available.

Pending Cases

Pending cases are matters that have been filed but have not yet reached a final resolution. A pending case may be in early pleadings, awaiting a hearing date, or waiting for the court to rule on a pending motion. The portal labels pending matters separately from active matters in some divisions, so the exact wording may vary by court.

You should review the events section of a pending case to see what step the matter is currently at and what filings the court expects next. Pending cases often have scheduled hearing dates that the portal displays in the events list, giving you a clear timeline for the next court appearance. If the case has been pending for an unusually long time, you may need to contact the clerk’s office for a status update.

Closed Cases

Closed cases are matters that the court has formally closed through a final order, dismissal, or judgment. The portal still displays closed cases in search results so you can review the docket history, but the court will not accept new filings except for post-judgment motions or appeals. Closed cases remain searchable for historical research, background checks, and record-correction purposes.

You should review the disposition field of a closed case to confirm the outcome and check whether the appeal window has expired. If you need to reopen a closed case, the court requires a specific motion, such as a motion to set aside a judgment or a motion to reinstate after dismissal. The portal lists any post-judgment motions in the events section.

Disposed Cases

Disposed cases are matters that have reached a final disposition through a judgment, plea, dismissal, or other terminating action. The portal uses the “disposed” label when the court has entered a final order resolving the substantive issues in the matter. Disposed cases are searchable for historical purposes but are no longer subject to active court management.

You should check the disposition details of a disposed case to see the exact outcome and any associated orders, such as restitution, probation, or sentence. Disposed cases may still be subject to appeal within the statutory window, so the disposition date matters for deadline calculations. The portal lists the disposition date alongside the closing order for easy reference.

Dismissed Cases

Dismissed cases are matters that the court has terminated before reaching a final judgment on the merits. Dismissal can occur for many reasons, including the plaintiff’s voluntary withdrawal, the court’s ruling on a motion to dismiss, or the parties’ settlement. The portal labels each dismissal as “with prejudice” or “without prejudice” so you can see whether the matter can be refiled.

You should note the type of dismissal when evaluating whether to refile or appeal. A dismissal without prejudice allows the plaintiff to start a new case, while a dismissal with prejudice ends the matter permanently. The events section shows the motion or order that led to the dismissal so you can review the reasoning.

Appealed Cases

Appealed cases are matters that a party has taken to a higher court for review. The portal displays the appeal status alongside the original case docket so you can see the trial-court history and the appellate-court status. Appeals add a separate docket number under the appellate court, but the trial-court portal still tracks the matter as “appealed.”

You should review the events section of an appealed case to see when the notice of appeal was filed and how the appellate court has processed the matter. The portal shows any stay of execution, briefing schedule, or appellate ruling in the events list. Once the appellate court issues its mandate, the trial-court docket reflects the result.

Case Status Updates

Case status updates track how the status field has changed over the life of the matter. The portal records each status transition in the events section with the date and the triggering order. Reviewing the status history helps you understand the procedural path the case has followed and confirms whether the court has entered any unusual or unexpected changes.

You should check the most recent docket entry before relying on the status field, since the portal may take a short time to update the label after a new order is entered. If the status seems out of date, refreshing the docket or returning after a short delay often resolves the discrepancy. For sensitive matters, contacting the clerk’s office ensures you have the most current status.

Case Lookup by Case Type

Case lookup by case type lets you filter results to a specific category of matter so you can find cases that share a common legal subject. The portal supports filtering by civil, criminal, family, probate, juvenile, misdemeanor, felony, and traffic cases. Selecting a case type narrows the result list and ensures the fields you see match the relevant procedural rules.

You should select the correct case type before searching, since the portal returns different data fields depending on the category. A criminal case lookup shows charges, plea entries, and sentence information, while a civil case lookup shows claims, damages, and judgment amounts. Using the right filter from the start saves time and reduces the chance of misreading the docket.

Civil Cases

Civil cases cover disputes between individuals, businesses, or government entities that seek money damages, injunctive relief, or specific performance. Common civil case types include personal injury, contract disputes, property disputes, employment claims, and small claims matters. The portal lists the plaintiff, the defendant, the cause of action, and the relief sought.

You should use the civil case filter when searching for contract disputes, tort claims, or other non-criminal litigation. The portal displays the case filing date, the assigned judge, and the case events in chronological order so you can track the procedural history. Civil cases may be appealed as a matter of right to the Missouri Court of Appeals.

Criminal Cases

Criminal cases cover matters filed by the State of Missouri against a defendant charged with a statutory violation. The portal lists the charges, the plea entered, the disposition, and any sentence imposed. Criminal case dockets include both felony and misdemeanor filings, with the case type label distinguishing the charge level.

You should use the criminal case filter when searching for prosecutions, plea agreements, or sentencing outcomes. The portal shows the arraignment date, pretrial motion hearings, trial date, and final disposition in the events section. For sealed or expunged criminal records, the public portal will not display content, and you would need to contact the court for restricted-access procedures.

Family Cases

Family cases cover matters involving domestic relations, including dissolution of marriage, child custody, child support, adoption, and paternity. The portal lists the petitioner, the respondent, the type of relief sought, and any associated orders. Family case dockets often contain sensitive personal information that may be subject to sealing under Missouri law.

You should use the family case filter when researching divorce, custody, or adoption matters. The portal shows the filing date, the assigned judge, and any temporary orders the court has entered. For sealed family records, the public portal displays only the case title and the basic docket entries; the underlying documents remain restricted.

Probate Cases

Probate cases cover matters involving the administration of estates, wills, trusts, guardianships, and conservatorships. The portal lists the decedent’s name (when public), the personal representative, the type of probate filing, and the orders entered by the probate court. Probate dockets often include inventory filings, claims against the estate, and final distribution orders.

You should use the probate case filter when searching for estate administration, guardianship, or conservatorship matters. The portal shows the filing date, the personal representative, and any creditor claims filed against the estate. For ongoing probate matters, the portal updates the docket as the personal representative files accountings and the court enters orders.

Juvenile Cases

Juvenile cases cover matters involving minors, including delinquency filings, status offenses, and protective services cases. The portal displays juvenile dockets under restricted access rules, and many juvenile records are sealed by statute. The public portal may show only the case number, the filing date, and the case type without party details or event descriptions.

You should use the juvenile case filter when researching a juvenile matter, recognizing that most records will not display public content. For parties to a juvenile case, the court provides separate access procedures through the clerk’s office. Researchers and the public generally cannot view sealed juvenile records without a court order.

Misdemeanor Cases

Misdemeanor cases cover criminal charges punishable by less than one year in jail, fines, or probation. Common misdemeanors include petty theft, simple assault, driving under the influence (first offense), and minor traffic offenses. The portal lists the charge, the plea, the disposition, and any sentence the court imposed.

You should use the misdemeanor case filter when searching for lower-level criminal prosecutions. The portal shows the arraignment date, any plea agreement, and the sentencing order in the events section. Misdemeanor sentences may include fines, probation, community service, or a short jail term, and the portal displays the full disposition details.

Felony Cases

Felony cases cover criminal charges punishable by more than one year in prison, including violent offenses, major drug charges, and serious property crimes. The portal lists the charge, the arraignment date, any preliminary hearings, the plea or trial outcome, and the sentence imposed. Felony cases follow a more formal procedural path than misdemeanor matters.

You should use the felony case filter when researching serious criminal prosecutions. The portal shows the indictment or information, pretrial motions, trial dates, verdict, and sentencing order in the events section. Felony convictions carry long-term consequences for the defendant and remain visible on background reports unless expunged.

Traffic Cases

Traffic cases cover moving violations, driving offenses, and infractions handled by the associate circuit court. Common traffic case types include speeding, driving while intoxicated, leaving the scene, and driving with a suspended license. The portal lists the charge, the plea, the disposition, and any fine or suspension imposed.

You should use the traffic case filter when searching for citations, suspensions, or traffic-conviction records. The portal shows the citation number, the plea entered, and the court’s ruling in the events section. Traffic convictions can affect driving privileges and insurance rates, so reviewing the disposition helps you understand the full impact of the matter.

Case Parties and Attorneys

Case parties and attorneys form the core of every docket and identify who initiated the matter, who responded, and who represents each side. The portal displays party names, party roles, and attorney information in a structured format so you can quickly identify the participants in the litigation. Reviewing this section helps you confirm you have the right matter and understand each party’s position.

You should verify party and attorney details before reaching out to anyone listed on the docket, since contact information may have changed since the original filing. For attorneys, the bar registration database gives current contact details, while parties may need to be located through other public records. The docket always lists the attorney of record at the time of each filing.

Plaintiff and Defendant Information

Plaintiff and defendant information appears in civil and criminal dockets and shows the party who initiated the matter and the party responding to it. In civil cases, the plaintiff is the party bringing the claim, while the defendant is the party being sued. In criminal cases, the State of Missouri is the prosecuting party and the defendant is the accused.

You should confirm plaintiff and defendant details when verifying a matter for legal, business, or personal purposes. The portal lists aliases, “doing business as” names, and corporate entities alongside individual party names, so you can see all the names associated with each side. Cross-referencing the party list with the case title confirms the correct matter.

Petitioner and Respondent Information

Petitioner and respondent information appears in family, probate, and some civil dockets where the matter is initiated by a petition rather than a complaint. The petitioner is the party asking the court for relief, while the respondent is the party responding to the request. Common petitioner-respondent dockets include divorce, custody, adoption, and guardianship filings.

You should review the petitioner and respondent section when researching family or probate matters, since the procedural rules differ from standard civil litigation. The portal lists each party’s address, attorney, and role in the events section so you can track their participation. For sealed family matters, the public portal may display only limited information.

Attorney of Record

Attorney of record is the lawyer the court has formally entered as the representative for a party in the matter. The portal lists the attorney of record alongside each party they represent, along with the attorney’s firm address and bar number. The attorney of record receives all court notices and filings on behalf of the party.

You should confirm the attorney of record before sending any legal communication to a lawyer listed on the docket. Attorneys may have withdrawn, been substituted, or had their representation limited, so the most recent docket entry is the most reliable source. The portal updates the attorney of record field when the court enters a motion to substitute counsel.

Representing Attorney

Representing attorney is the lawyer who appeared at a particular hearing or filed a specific document in the matter. The portal distinguishes the attorney of record from the representing attorney when a different lawyer appears at a specific event. This distinction matters in multi-attorney firms where several lawyers may handle different stages of a case.

You should review the representing attorney entry for each significant event, since it shows which lawyer argued the motion, appeared at the hearing, or filed the brief. The events section lists the representing attorney for each entry, so you can see who handled each stage of the litigation. This information is useful for evaluating attorney performance and tracking case history.

Party Roles and Case Relationships

Party roles and case relationships describe how each participant connects to the matter and to other parties. Common roles include plaintiff, defendant, petitioner, respondent, third-party defendant, intervenor, garnishee, and witness. The portal lists each party’s role alongside their name so you can see how they participate in the litigation.

You should review the party roles section when researching a matter, since the relationships between parties affect the legal arguments and procedural posture. The portal also shows related parties, such as co-plaintiffs, joint defendants, or successor entities, so you can see the full scope of participation. Understanding party roles helps you interpret the court’s rulings and the parties’ obligations.

Case Filing and Court Activity

Case filing and court activity cover every action the court and the parties have taken in the matter, from the initial filing through the final judgment. The portal organizes these events in chronological order so you can follow the procedural history and prepare for upcoming hearings. Reviewing this section gives you a complete picture of how the matter has progressed.

You should review the events section before any court appearance, since the most recent filings often indicate the issues the court will address at the next hearing. The events list also flags deadlines, continuances, and rescheduled dates, so you can adjust your schedule and prepare accordingly. For complex litigation, the events section may run several pages.

Filing Date

Filing date marks the day the clerk officially received and docketed the initial paperwork that opened the matter. The portal displays the filing date at the top of the docket and uses it as the anchor for calculating deadlines, statute-of-limitations questions, and procedural timelines. The filing date also determines which set of procedural rules applies.

You should record the filing date for any official purpose, since the date controls many legal deadlines. The portal lists the filing date alongside the case number, the case type, and the assigned judge so you can verify the record at a glance. For transferred or consolidated matters, the original filing date is preserved on the docket.

Court Hearings

Court hearings are scheduled events where the judge hears arguments, takes pleas, or rules on motions. The portal lists each hearing date, the type of hearing, the courtroom, and the outcome in the events section. Common hearing types include arraignment, pretrial conference, motion hearing, status conference, bench trial, and jury trial.

You should review the hearings section before any scheduled court date to confirm the time, location, and expected outcome. The portal updates hearing dates when the court grants a continuance or reschedules a matter, so checking the docket on the day of the hearing ensures you have the most current information. Some courts also publish live hearing calendars for public viewing.

Motions and Filings

Motions and filings cover every written request or document submitted to the court by the parties. The portal lists each motion by type (motion to dismiss, motion to compel, motion for summary judgment, motion in limine, etc.), along with the filing party, the filing date, and the court’s ruling. Filings also include briefs, exhibits, and proposed orders.

You should review the motions section to track the legal arguments the parties have raised and the court’s rulings on those arguments. The portal shows both pending and decided motions, so you can see which issues remain open for the court’s review. For complex litigation, the motions section may include dozens of entries across the life of the case.

Orders and Court Actions

Orders and court actions cover every ruling the judge has entered in the matter, including interim orders on motions, scheduling orders, protective orders, and final judgments. The portal lists each order by date, type, and issuing judge, along with a brief summary of the ruling. The full text of the order is linked when the clerk has uploaded it to the docket.

You should review the orders section to understand the court’s rulings and any obligations the parties must follow. The portal shows the date the order was entered, which controls the start of any appeal or compliance deadline. For sealed or restricted orders, the public portal displays only the order title and date without the underlying content.

Judgments and Dispositions

Judgments and dispositions record the final outcome of the matter once the court has ruled on the substantive issues. The portal lists the judgment date, the judgment type, the amount awarded (if any), and any post-judgment remedies such as garnishment or writ of execution. The disposition field summarizes the final result for quick reference.

You should review the judgments section before taking any post-judgment action, since appeal deadlines run from the entry of the final judgment. The portal also shows any post-judgment motions, such as motions for new trial or motions to alter or amend the judgment, so you can see whether the matter is still subject to challenge. For collection matters, the judgment section confirms the amount owed and the terms of payment.

Case Activity Timeline

Case activity timeline shows the chronological path the matter has followed from filing through the most recent docket entry. The portal organizes events by date so you can see how the case progressed over weeks, months, or years. Reviewing the timeline helps you understand the procedural pace of the matter and identify any unusual gaps or delays.

You should use the timeline to prepare a case summary for legal, business, or research purposes. The portal lets you filter the events list by type (hearings, motions, orders, judgments) so you can focus on specific categories of activity. For matters with lengthy histories, exporting the docket or printing the events list helps you document the procedural path.

Case Lookup Documents

Case lookup documents cover the actual filings, orders, and judgments the parties and the court have submitted in the matter. The portal links to each entry in the events section so you can open the full document when the clerk has uploaded it. Reviewing the documents gives you the underlying paperwork the court relied on, rather than just the docket summary.

You should review the documents section for any matter where the underlying content matters, such as a contract dispute, a criminal charge, or a custody filing. The portal shows a document icon or link next to each entry that has an uploaded file, so you can quickly identify which filings are available for viewing. Some documents may be sealed or restricted, in which case the portal displays only the entry without the underlying content.

Available Case Documents

Available case documents include the initial pleadings, motions, briefs, orders, judgments, and other filings the clerk has uploaded to the docket. The portal lists each document with its filing date, its filing party, and a brief description. Clicking the document link opens the file in your browser or downloads it as a PDF for offline review.

You should check the available documents section before relying on the docket summary, since the underlying paperwork contains the precise language the court ruled on. The portal updates the documents section as the clerk uploads new filings, so checking back regularly ensures you see the most recent additions. For older cases, some documents may only be available on microfilm or in the clerk’s physical file.

Filings and Court Documents

Filings and court documents cover every document submitted to the clerk, including petitions, answers, motions, briefs, exhibits, and proposed orders. The portal groups filings by category so you can filter for pleadings, motions, or evidentiary submissions. Residents can also access official dui records to verify current details. Each filing shows the filing party, the filing date, and a brief description of the document.

You should review the filings section to track the legal arguments the parties have raised and the evidence they have submitted. The portal links to the full document when the clerk has uploaded it, so you can read the exact language used. For complex litigation, the filings section may include hundreds of entries across the life of the case.

Orders and Judgments

Orders and judgments listed in the documents section mirror the entries in the events section but provide the full text of each ruling. The portal links to the PDF version of each order or judgment so you can read the complete ruling, including any findings of fact, conclusions of law, and remedy the court awarded. The full text is essential for evaluating the court’s reasoning.

You should open the orders and judgments documents before relying on the docket summary, since the summary may abbreviate the ruling. The portal’s PDF versions include the judge’s signature, the date of entry, and any seals or stamps the clerk has added. For appellate purposes, certified copies of orders and judgments are available from the clerk’s office for a fee.

Document Access and Availability

Document access and availability depend on the case type, the document type, and any sealing orders the court has entered. The portal displays public documents without restriction but blocks access to sealed or restricted records. For documents marked confidential, the portal shows only the entry title and date without the underlying content.

You should review the document access section before assuming a document is unavailable, since some documents are restricted for a limited period and become public later. The portal flags documents that have been temporarily sealed, and the clerk’s office can advise on the timeline for unsealing. For records that remain permanently restricted, only parties and attorneys of record may access the file.

Certified Copies and Official Records

Certified copies and official records are available from the clerk’s office for a fee, and the portal indicates which documents you can order through the certified-copy request process. Certified copies include the clerk’s seal and signature, which verify the document’s authenticity for use in other legal proceedings, government agencies, or business transactions.

You should request certified copies through the clerk’s office rather than relying on the portal’s PDF version, since the portal copy is not certified for official use. The clerk’s office processes certified-copy requests in person, by mail, or through the court’s online payment system depending on the court’s procedures. Allow several business days for processing, and confirm the certified copy fee before submitting your request.

Case Lookup Problems

Case lookup problems occur when the search returns no results, returns the wrong matter, or shows incomplete information. Common issues include typos in the case number, similar party names, recently filed cases not yet digitized, and sealed or restricted records. Knowing how to troubleshoot these issues saves time and helps you locate the correct docket.

You should approach lookup problems methodically by checking each variable one at a time. If a case number search returns nothing, try a party-name search with the same data, or vice versa. If both methods fail, the matter may be sealed, recently filed, or filed in a different court division than you expected.

Case Not Found

Case not found errors occur when the portal cannot match your search input to any docket in the case database. Common causes include typos in the case number, searching the wrong court division, or looking for a case that has not yet been digitized. The portal returns a “no results” message and suggests you refine your search criteria.

You should re-enter the case identifier carefully, double-checking each character and any division prefix letters. If the search still returns no results, try a party-name search or an attorney-name search to see whether the case exists under a different identifier. If those methods also fail, contact the clerk’s office to confirm whether the case has been filed and digitized.

Incorrect Case Number

Incorrect case number errors occur when you enter a typo or use the wrong division prefix, causing the portal to return a “no results” message or the wrong docket. Common mistakes include confusing similar letters (O and 0, I and 1), transposing digits, or using the prefix for a different division. The portal does not auto-correct typos, so each character must match the official record.

You should verify the case number against the source document, paying close attention to the prefix letters and the year. If you cannot find the case using the original number, try a party-name search or filing date search to confirm the correct identifier. Cross-referencing the corrected case number with the original paperwork prevents future lookup errors.

Similar Party Names

Similar party names can cause lookup problems when two unrelated individuals share a common name, or when a party uses an alias or nickname that does not match the official record. The portal returns a result list with all matching names, and you must select the correct entry based on the case type, filing date, and case title. Without enough distinguishing information, the result list may include dozens of matches.

You should narrow similar-name searches by adding a first name, middle initial, or approximate filing date to the search input. If you still cannot identify the correct entry, check the case title, the assigned judge, and the case events for details that match what you know about the matter. For very common names, you may need to contact the clerk’s office to confirm the right docket.

Recently Filed Cases

Recently filed cases may not appear in the public portal immediately because the clerk needs time to process the initial paperwork, assign a docket number, and upload the documents. The processing window can range from a few hours to several business days depending on the court’s workload. The portal returns no results for matters filed within the processing window.

You should wait 24 to 48 hours after a recent filing before searching the portal, and re-run the search if the initial attempt returns no results. If the case still does not appear after several days, contact the clerk’s office to confirm the filing was received and to ask when the docket will be available online. For urgent matters, the clerk’s office can provide a status update over the phone.

Incomplete Case Information

Incomplete case information appears when the portal has only a partial docket entry, often because the clerk is still processing the file or because certain documents have not yet been uploaded. The portal shows the case number, the case title, and the filing date, but the events section may list only the initial filing without any subsequent orders, motions, or judgments.

You should check back periodically for updates, since the portal refreshes as the clerk enters new information. For matters that have been pending for weeks without additional entries, contact the clerk’s office to confirm the file is being processed. Incomplete records can also occur when the court has sealed certain documents while leaving the rest of the docket public.

Sealed or Restricted Cases

Sealed or restricted cases are matters where the court has entered an order limiting public access to the docket. Common sealed matters include juvenile cases, adoption proceedings, some family court filings, and matters involving confidential business information. The portal displays limited information for sealed cases, often only the case number and case type, without party names, attorney details, or event descriptions.

You should contact the clerk’s office if you need access to a sealed or restricted record, since the court requires a motion to unseal or a specific statutory basis for access. Parties to the matter, attorneys of record, and authorized government agencies generally have access to sealed records through separate procedures. The public portal will not display the underlying content of sealed dockets.

Delayed Case Updates

Delayed case updates occur when the portal has not yet reflected the most recent filings, motions, or orders in the docket. The processing cycle can range from a few hours to several business days, depending on the court’s workload and the document type. Delayed updates can cause confusion when a case appears to be at one stage while the court has already moved to the next.

You should refresh the docket periodically to check for updates, especially before any scheduled hearing or filing deadline. If the portal still shows outdated information after several days, contact the clerk’s office to confirm the most recent activity. For time-sensitive matters, the clerk’s office can provide a status update over the phone or by email.

Case Lookup and Related Court Information

Case lookup and related court information cover the broader set of records and tools the court system offers beyond the basic docket search. Understanding how case lookup differs from other public-access tools helps you choose the right resource for each research question. The portal offers several complementary tools, including a case search, a court calendar, a docket search, and a court records archive.

You should match your research question to the right tool, since each one returns different data fields and supports different search methods. For a single case lookup, the docket search is usually the most direct path. For broader research, the case search, court calendar, or court records archive may provide the information you need.

Case Lookup vs. Case Search

Case lookup and case search are often used interchangeably, but they refer to different tools within the Missouri CaseNet system. Case lookup typically returns a single docket based on a specific identifier, while case search returns a list of matters based on broader criteria such as party name, attorney name, or filing date. Both tools draw from the same underlying case database.

You should use case lookup when you have a specific docket number or party name and want to retrieve that matter quickly. Use case search when you need a broader result list based on less specific criteria, such as a date range or case type filter. Both tools ultimately return the same docket information, but the entry point differs.

Case Lookup vs. Court Calendar

Case lookup returns the full docket of a specific matter, including all events, motions, and orders. The court calendar, by contrast, returns a daily or weekly schedule of hearings, trials, and other proceedings across multiple cases. The calendar is useful for tracking scheduled court appearances, while the docket is useful for reviewing the full history of a specific matter.

You should use the court calendar when you need to know which cases are scheduled in a specific courtroom on a specific day. Use case lookup when you need the full docket of a single matter. Many courts publish a combined calendar-docket tool that shows scheduled events within each docket, so you can use both resources together for comprehensive research.

Case Lookup vs. Court Docket

Case lookup is the action of retrieving a docket through the portal, while the court docket is the underlying record of all events in a specific matter. The docket contains the case number, the case title, the parties, the attorneys, the events, the orders, and the judgments. Case lookup is the search method, and the docket is the result of the search.

You should distinguish between the lookup process and the docket record, since the two terms are sometimes confused. The lookup is what you do to find the matter, and the docket is what you find once the search returns a result. Both concepts are part of the same workflow, but they refer to different stages of the research process.

Case Lookup vs. Court Records

Case lookup retrieves the docket of a specific matter, while court records cover the broader collection of all dockets, filings, and judgments maintained by the clerk’s office. Court records include both current dockets and historical archives, and they may include physical files, microfilm, and digital records that are not all available through the public portal.

You should use case lookup for current, public dockets that are available through the CaseNet portal. Use court records research at the clerk’s office for historical matters, sealed records, or documents not available online. The clerk’s office can also provide certified copies of documents for use in other legal proceedings or official transactions.

Case Information vs. Criminal Records

Case information covers the docket of any matter, civil or criminal, filed with the court. Criminal records cover arrest records, conviction records, and sentencing information maintained by law enforcement agencies and the courts. The two overlap when criminal cases result in convictions, but they draw from different data sources and serve different research purposes.

You should use case lookup for court docket information on criminal matters, including charges, pleas, dispositions, and sentences. Use criminal records checks for broader background information, including arrest records, outstanding warrants, and prior convictions that may not appear in a single docket search. For comprehensive background research, both resources may be necessary.

Contact Information

St. Louis County Courts under the 21st Judicial Circuit maintain public access to case records through the Missouri CaseNet portal, with additional support available through the clerk’s office. You can reach the court by phone during business hours, visit the courthouse in person, or use the official search portal for online access to dockets and case status.

Office hours for the clerk’s office are Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The court is closed on weekends and on official state holidays. For urgent matters outside business hours, contact local law enforcement for emergencies or wait until the next business day for non-urgent court questions.

For the fastest lookup results, use the CaseNet portal before contacting the clerk’s office by phone. Phone support is best for questions about specific dockets, certified copies, sealed records, or matters that require clerk assistance. The clerk’s office can also help you locate archived records, request certified copies, and resolve issues with the public portal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Case Lookup lets anyone view public information for St. Louis County court cases through Missouri’s official CaseNet portal. The tool works for civil, criminal, family and probate matters that the public may see. Users can start a search with a case number, party name, attorney name or filing date. Results show the docket, involved parties, judge, and recent activity. The service is free, available 24 hours a day, and supported by the clerk’s office at 105 South Central Avenue, Clayton, MO. Phone support helps when online results are unclear or missing.

How can I use Case Lookup to find a St. Louis County court case by number?

To find a St. Louis County case by number, open the Missouri CaseNet portal at the provided URL. Select the ‘Case Search’ tab, then choose ‘Case Number’ as the search type. Enter the full docket number, including the year and circuit code, and click Search. The system returns the docket sheet, parties, and recent activity. If the number is incomplete, add leading zeros or try the partial match option. For help, call the records office at 314‑615‑8029 during business hours.

How do I check the status of a case that is still active or has been closed?

To check a case’s status, locate the case with any of the lookup methods. On the case’s summary page, find the ‘Status’ field near the top. It will read Active, Pending, Closed, or Disposed. For closed cases, a disposition date and outcome appear below the status line. If the status shows Pending, the case is still moving through the court system. Call the clerk’s office if you need clarification on the next hearing date. Verify the date before the trial.

Where can I view filed documents for a case found through Case Lookup?

Documents for a found case appear under the ‘Dockets & Filings’ tab. Click the tab to list all entries in chronological order. Select a document title to open a PDF preview. Some records, such as sealed motions or protected orders, are hidden from public view. For unrestricted files, you can download or print directly from the browser. If a needed file is not listed, visit the courthouse kiosk during regular hours to request a copy.

Why might a case not appear in the public search results?

A case may not appear because it is sealed, involves a protective order, or belongs to a juvenile proceeding. The CaseNet portal excludes probate matters, certain local ordinance violations, and other non‑court filings. If the filing is very recent, the database may not have processed it yet. Double‑check the spelling of names and the docket number format. When the case still does not show, call the clerk’s office for verification. Provide the case number and filing date when you call.

How often does the CaseNet database refresh its information?

The CaseNet system updates its records every weekday evening. New filings from the same day are added during the nightly batch process. Updates include changes to party roles, docket entries, and case status. Weekend days do not receive new data, so searches on Saturday may show the previous Friday’s information. For the most current view, run the search after 7 p.m. local time on a weekday. If you need verification for a critical filing, contact the clerk’s office directly.