OPEN PUBLIC RECORDS

How Records Work in Connecticut

Connecticut's court and arrest records are organized around state agencies and municipalities — not counties. The state judiciary under the Connecticut Supreme Court maintains court records through the Judicial Branch Case Look-up system. Connecticut State Police SBI holds statewide criminal history. Most local records — deeds, vital records, tax assessments — live with the 169 city and town clerks.

Connecticut has eight historical counties (Fairfield, Hartford, Litchfield, Middlesex, New Haven, New London, Tolland, Windham), but they're geographic and judicial districts only — there's no county government and no county sheriff. County government was abolished in 1960, and the sheriff's offices were abolished in 2000 (State Marshals now handle the process-serving and court-security functions that sheriffs previously did in other states). All 169 cities and towns run their own local government, police (where they have one), and clerk's office.

Counties (no County Governments) in Connecticut

Connecticut has 8 counties; Connecticut abolished county governments in 1960 — counties are geographic regions only, with no government functions. Courts are organized into 13 Judicial Districts. Select one below to find local court, arrest, and court and arrest records.