Elkhart County, IN Courts and Public Records
- Arrest Records
- Judgments
- Bankruptcies
- DUIs & DWIs
- Felonies
- Warrants
- Jail Records
- Lien Records
- Sex Offenses
- Misdemeanors
- Criminal Records
- Federal Dockets
The Clerk of the Circuit Court in Goshen keeps the court records for the circuit and superior courts in Elkhart County, which hear criminal, civil, juvenile, and probate and adoption matters.
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Office | Clerk of the Circuit Court, Elkhart County |
| Clerk | Patricia Pickens |
| Main Address | 1905 Reliance Road, Goshen, IN 46526 |
| Main Phone | 574-538-3000 |
| Courthouse Locations | 1 (Goshen) |
| Handles | Criminal, civil, small claims, juvenile, and probate and adoption cases filed in the circuit and superior courts, and civil violation cases in the trial courts of the county |
| Does NOT Handle | Federal cases (U.S. District Court for Indiana), appeals (Indiana Court of Appeals and Indiana Supreme Court), and parking tickets (issuing agency) |
| Online Case Search | MyCase (statewide Indiana public case search, not specific to this county) |
| Records Requests | Clerk of the Circuit Court, 574-538-3000 |
How to Search Elkhart County Court Records
Have the person's full name, the case number if you know it, and the approximate dates ready before you search. The Clerk of the Circuit Court keeps the records for Elkhart County.
Online
Go to MyCase at mycase.in.gov to search Indiana public court cases.
Search by party name or case number to find case information.
MyCase is statewide, so confirm details with the clerk when needed.
Best for: Quick lookups of case status
In Person
Go to 1905 Reliance Road, Goshen, IN 46526.
Bring the case number and party names if you have them.
Ask the clerk for help finding the case type you need.
Best for: Records not found through online search
By Phone
Call 574-538-3000 to confirm what the clerk needs.
Ask the clerk how to request copies of court records.
Confirm the case number and party names before you call.
Best for: Confirming records and next steps
Search by Name on INCourts.org
Go to INCourts.org and enter a full name.
Search across record types without a case number.
Confirm results with the court, since they are not official court records.
Best for: Finding leads without a case number
Elkhart County Court Statistics (2024)
According to the Indiana Judicial Service Report, all trial courts in Elkhart County, including city and town courts, received 39,500 new filings in 2024. That is +5.5% compared with 37,425 in 2023, and the county's rate was 190.4 filings per 1,000 residents.
39,500
Total new filings in 2024 (all trial courts)
12,444
Criminal filings in 2024
13,335
Civil filings in 2024 (including small claims)
190.4
Filings per 1,000 residents (population 207,436)
| Category | 2024 | 2023 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal | 12,444 | 12,456 | -0.1% |
| Civil violations (infractions and ordinance violations) | 11,321 | 10,510 | +7.7% |
| Juvenile | 1,821 | 1,624 | +12.1% |
| Civil (including small claims) | 13,335 | 12,245 | +8.9% |
| Probate and adoption | 579 | 590 | -1.9% |
| Total | 39,500 | 37,425 | +5.5% |
How Have Court Filings Changed in Elkhart County?
New filings in Elkhart County changed by +5.5% from 2023 to 2024, and the statewide total for Indiana changed by +4.8% over the same period. Figures marked with ~ are estimates based on the other years shown for this county.
| Year (Indiana statewide) | New filings, all trial courts | Change from prior year |
|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 950,557 | ~+4.8% |
| 2021 | 1,027,497 | +8.1% |
| 2022 | 1,017,793 | -0.9% |
| 2023 | 1,092,150 | +7.3% |
| 2024 | 1,144,342 | +4.8% |
By category, juvenile filings in Elkhart County rose the most, +12.1%, while probate and adoption filings fell the most, -1.9%. The county changes are measured from 2023 to 2024 only, because the two-year county series is the longest available in this source.
What Types of Cases Are Filed in Elkhart County?
Civil cases are the largest category in Elkhart County, at 13,335 of the 39,500 new filings in 2024, or 33.8%.
| Case Type | Filings 2024 | Share of Total | Change vs 2023 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal | 12,444 | 31.5% | -0.1% |
| Civil violations (infractions and ordinance violations) | 11,321 | 28.7% | +7.7% |
| Juvenile | 1,821 | 4.6% | +12.1% |
| Civil (including small claims) | 13,335 | 33.8% | +8.9% |
| Probate and adoption | 579 | 1.5% | -1.9% |
| Total | 39,500 | 100.0% | +5.5% |
Juvenile cases grew fastest at +12.1%, and probate and adoption cases fell fastest at -1.9%.
How Does Elkhart County Compare With Indiana Overall?
Elkhart County has 3.00% of Indiana's population and accounts for 3.45% of statewide new filings in 2024.
| Metric | Elkhart County | Indiana | Comparison |
|---|---|---|---|
| Population (2025) | 208,774 | 6,973,333 | 2.99% of state population |
| Total new filings (2024) | 39,500 | 1,144,342 | 3.45% of statewide filings |
| Change in filings, 2023 to 2024 | +5.5% | +4.8% | 0.7 points higher |
| Filings per 1,000 residents | 190.4 | 165.3 | 15.2% above state |
| Criminal share of filings | 31.5% | 23.5% | 8.0 points higher |
| Civil violations share of filings | 28.7% | 31.0% | 2.3 points lower |
| Civil share of filings | 33.8% | 38.3% | 4.5 points lower |
| County share of statewide criminal filings | 4.63% | 100.0% | Share of statewide total for this category |
| County share of statewide civil violation filings | 3.19% | 100.0% | Share of statewide total for this category |
| County share of statewide civil filings | 3.04% | 100.0% | Share of statewide total for this category |
Elkhart County files 15.2% more cases per resident than Indiana overall, based on total new filings across all trial courts. Its mix of criminal, civil, and civil violation filings is different from the statewide mix, and the share of each category shows how much of the statewide workload comes from this county.
Elkhart County Crime Statistics (2025)
These figures are Indiana statewide totals as reported to the FBI, not counts for Elkhart County. Agency reporting may be incomplete, and county crime counts are not available here. Statewide violent and property crimes combined fell 15.1% from 2024 to 2025. In 2025, reporting agencies covered about 87.8% of Indiana's population, so year-over-year changes can partly reflect which agencies reported.
18,415
Violent crimes, Indiana statewide, 2025
76,771
Property crimes, Indiana statewide, 2025 (includes arson)
264.1
Violent crime rate per 100K, Indiana statewide, 2025 (population 6,973,333)
-15.1%
Change in total violent plus property crimes, Indiana statewide, 2025 vs 2024 (95,186 vs 112,089)
| Offense | 2025 | Rate per 100K | 2024 | YoY Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Homicide | 304 | 4.4 | 396 | -23.2% |
| Rape | 2,111 | 30.3 | 2,261 | -6.6% |
| Robbery | 1,948 | 27.9 | 2,371 | -17.8% |
| Aggravated assault | 14,052 | 201.5 | 16,069 | -12.6% |
| Violent crimes total | 18,415 | 264.1 | 21,097 | -12.7% |
| Burglary | 9,580 | 137.4 | 11,511 | -16.8% |
| Larceny-theft | 55,827 | 800.6 | 64,944 | -14.0% |
| Motor vehicle theft | 10,842 | 155.5 | 13,937 | -22.2% |
| Property crimes total | 76,771 | 1100.9 | 90,992 | -15.6% |
Rates use the Indiana 2025 population of 6,973,333. County-level rates are not published, so this section does not compare Elkhart County with the state. The property crimes total includes arson, so it is larger than the sum of the property offenses listed above.
Elkhart County Courthouse Locations
Elkhart County has 1 courthouse location, in Goshen. Check your notice or case paperwork to confirm which office handles your matter before you visit.
| Courthouse | Address | Phone | Verified Services |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clerk of the Circuit Court, Goshen | 1905 Reliance Road, Goshen, IN 46526 | 574-538-3000 | Clerk of the Circuit Court office, per the Indiana court directory |
Which Court Handles Your Case in Elkhart County?
In Elkhart County, the circuit and superior courts handle most cases, and the Clerk of the Circuit Court keeps the records. Matters handled outside the court, such as parking tickets, are flagged in the table.
| Your Situation | Go To | Key Details |
|---|---|---|
| Traffic ticket | Court named on your citation (circuit or superior court, or the city or town court) | Infractions in some municipalities go to the local city or town court, so check your citation. |
| Parking ticket | The agency that issued the ticket | The court does not handle parking tickets. |
| Misdemeanor | Circuit or superior court | Misdemeanor charges are filed with the Clerk of the Circuit Court. |
| Felony | Circuit or superior court | Felony cases are heard in the circuit and superior courts. |
| DUI | Circuit or superior court | DUI charges are heard in the circuit and superior courts; confirm the court on your paperwork. |
| Domestic violence | Circuit or superior court | Criminal charges and protective orders are filed in the circuit and superior courts. |
| Civil lawsuit | Circuit or superior court | Civil cases are filed with the Clerk of the Circuit Court. |
| Small claims | Circuit or superior court (small claims) | Small claims are part of the civil filings in the circuit and superior courts. |
| Eviction | Circuit or superior court | Eviction cases are filed as civil cases with the Clerk of the Circuit Court. |
| Divorce | Circuit or superior court (domestic relations) | Domestic relations cases are filed with the Clerk of the Circuit Court. |
| Child custody or support | Circuit or superior court (domestic relations) | Custody and support orders are issued by the circuit or superior court. |
| Probate or estate | Circuit or superior court (probate) | Probate and adoption matters are filed in the circuit and superior courts. |
| Juvenile case | Circuit or superior court (juvenile division, where one exists) | Juvenile matters are heard by the circuit or superior court and are not public. |
| Appeal | Indiana Court of Appeals or Indiana Supreme Court | Appeals from trial courts go to the state appellate courts, not the county clerk. |
Are Elkhart County Court Records Public?
Yes, most Elkhart County court records are public, with exceptions under Indiana Supreme Court rules on access to court records.
Public records
Most case files in the circuit and superior courts are open under Administrative Rule 9 of the Indiana Supreme Court. The Indiana Access to Public Records Act covers executive-branch records and does not itself govern court files.
Restricted or confidential records
Juvenile, sealed, expunged, adoption, mental health, and protective-order-restricted records are not publicly available. Other confidential records are also restricted by rule or court order.
Online access
MyCase at mycase.in.gov is the statewide public case search. It is not specific to Elkhart County, and online results may not include every document.
In-person access
Visit the Clerk of the Circuit Court at 1905 Reliance Road, Goshen, IN 46526, or call 574-538-3000 to confirm which records are available for your case.
Fees
This page does not list fees. Ask the Clerk of the Circuit Court about fees for copies or records requests.
How to Search Elkhart County Court Records Online
Use MyCase to search Elkhart County cases online, and ask the clerk for records that are not published online.
- Identify the case type, such as criminal, traffic, civil, small claims, family law, probate, or juvenile.
- Go to MyCase at mycase.in.gov.
- Search by party name or case number and note the case number from the results.
- Review the case information for status, parties, and scheduled dates.
- Call the Clerk of the Circuit Court at 574-538-3000 to request documents that are not online.
| Case Type | Where to Search | What You'll Find | Limits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal | MyCase (mycase.in.gov) | Case information where published | Documents may require the clerk |
| Traffic | MyCase (mycase.in.gov) | Case information where published | If a city or town court case does not appear, check the court on your citation |
| Civil | MyCase (mycase.in.gov) | Case information where published | Documents may require the clerk |
| Small claims | MyCase (mycase.in.gov) | Case information where published | Documents may require the clerk |
| Family law | MyCase (mycase.in.gov) | Case information where published | Confidential details are restricted |
| Probate | MyCase (mycase.in.gov) | Case information where published | Estate and adoption records may be restricted |
| Juvenile | Clerk of the Circuit Court, 574-538-3000 | Limited information through the clerk | Juvenile records are not publicly available |
How to Pay Fines & Citations in Elkhart County
Contact the Clerk of the Circuit Court to ask about paying fines and citations for your case in Elkhart County.
- Phone: Call the Clerk of the Circuit Court at 574-538-3000 to ask which payment methods apply to your case. Ask the clerk to confirm the amount before you pay.
- In person: Go to 1905 Reliance Road, Goshen, IN 46526 and ask the clerk about payment options for your case. Bring your citation or case number.
Parking tickets are handled by the agency that issued the ticket, not by the court. Traffic citations and criminal fines may follow different payment steps, so confirm with the clerk.
Elkhart County Court Records FAQ
How do I search Elkhart County court records?
Use MyCase at mycase.in.gov to search by party name or case number, or call the Clerk of the Circuit Court at 574-538-3000.
Are Elkhart County court records public?
Most are public under Indiana Supreme Court rules, but juvenile, sealed, and other confidential records are restricted.
How do I find a criminal case?
Search MyCase by party name or case number, or call the Clerk of the Circuit Court at 574-538-3000 for help.
How do I find a court date?
Check your citation, summons, or notice, or call the Clerk of the Circuit Court at 574-538-3000 to confirm the date.
How do I pay a traffic ticket?
Call the Clerk of the Circuit Court at 574-538-3000 or visit 1905 Reliance Road, Goshen, IN 46526 to ask which payment methods apply to your case.
How many cases are filed in Elkhart County each year?
All trial courts in Elkhart County received 39,500 new filings in 2024, +5.5% from 37,425 in 2023, according to the Indiana Judicial Service Report.
What is the most common type of case?
Civil cases are the largest category, with 13,335 new filings in 2024, or 33.8% of the county total.
Is crime rising or falling?
County crime counts are not available here. Statewide, reported violent crimes fell 12.7% to 18,415 in 2025 from 21,097 in 2024, and property crimes fell 15.6% to 76,771 from 90,992, as reported to the FBI. These are Indiana statewide figures, and reporting coverage changed between years.
Courts in the County
Elkhart County Circuit CourtMore Info
| Address: | 101 N. Main St., Goshen, IN, 46526 |
| Phone Number: | 574-535-6430 |
| Fax: | 574-535-6411 |
| Website: | https://elkhartcounty.com/en/government/courts/ |
Useful Links
- Elkhart County Clerk Office - Official Website The Elkhart County Clerk's website offers detailed information on court records and services, including forms and filing instructions.
- Elkhart County Courts Information - IN.gov Provides comprehensive details about court structure, judges, and procedural information for Elkhart County Courts via the Indiana government site.
- mycase.in.gov - Public Records Search Access and search for public court records for cases throughout the state, including Elkhart County, using this government platform.
- Elkhart County Prosecuting Attorney - Office Information Offers information related to the prosecuting attorney’s office, including victim assistance and handling criminal matters in Elkhart County.
- Indiana Public Defender Council - Resource Center A resource center providing support and information about public defense services available to individuals within Indiana, including Elkhart County.
- Elkhart County Bar Association - Official Website Connect with legal professionals and find resources for legal assistance specific to Elkhart County through the local Bar Association.
- Indiana Judiciary - Self-Service Legal Center Access self-help legal resources, guides, and forms tailored to assist the public in navigating the court system in Indiana.
- Indiana Court Case Search - Odyssey Portal An integrated system allowing for public searches of court records across Indiana, offering updated case information, including Elkhart County.
- Elkhart County Sheriff's Office - Official Site Offers insights into law enforcement services, detention facilities, and community programs operated within Elkhart County.
- Indiana Court Legal Resources - IN.gov Comprehensive legal resources, including Indiana statutes, court rules, and guidelines relevant to judges, lawyers, and citizens.
- City of Elkhart Law Department - Legal Services Offers information on municipal legal services, opinions, and legal advice for the City of Elkhart within Indiana.
- Indiana Supreme Court - Help and Court Services A centralized hub providing support and information for individuals seeking court services and legal help within Indiana.
- Legal Aid of Northern Indiana - Assistance Services Provides free and reduced-fee legal aid services to eligible individuals within Northern Indiana, including Elkhart County.
- Indiana BMV - Court Order Services Information on how to handle court-ordered actions related to driving records and vehicle registration in Indiana.
- Indiana Court Rules - Official Judicial Guidelines Statewide rules governing Indiana courts, including procedural guidelines that compose the framework for legal proceedings in Elkhart County.
- Clerks Record - Access Public Records A platform to search and request various public records, including court documents and other legal filings available online.
- Indiana Department of Child Services - Court Involvement Provides resources related to child welfare cases and court involvement concerning family services within Indiana.
- Indiana Family and Social Services Administration - Legal Affairs Information on how legal services interact with social services, including court liaisons and legal representatives for social matters.
- Provincial Offences - Legal Processing Information Provides guidelines about processing provincial offenses and legal matters, including court procedures relevant to Elkhart County.
- Law Enforcement Resources - Additional Court Services Access to additional resources, legal information, and support services provided to law enforcement concerning court interaction.
Table of Contents
- Elkhart County, Courts and Public Records
- How to Search Elkhart County Court Records
- Elkhart County Court Statistics (2024)
- How Have Court Filings Changed in Elkhart County?
- What Types of Cases Are Filed in Elkhart County?
- How Does Elkhart County Compare With Indiana Overall?
- Elkhart County Crime Statistics (2025)
- Elkhart County Courthouse Locations
- Which Court Handles Your Case in Elkhart County?
- Are Elkhart County Court Records Public?
- How to Search Elkhart County Court Records Online
- How to Pay Fines & Citations in Elkhart County
- Elkhart County Court Records FAQ
- Courts in the County
- Useful Links