Kershaw County Public Records Index gives people a simple way to look at and copy official documents the county says are open to everyone. You can visit the Clerk of Court office at 1121 Broad Street, Room 313, in Camden, SC, Monday through Friday from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. There, you can make copies of civil case files, deed transfers, probate records, and other legal papers. Each page costs $0.50 to copy. If you need a certified copy with a notary stamp, it costs an extra $1.00 per document. If you mail in a request, there’s a $20.00 search fee that can’t be refunded. After staff count the pages, they send you a bill with the total cost.
How to Use the Kershaw County Public Records Index
The Kershaw County Public Records Index is a searchable list of all public documents kept by county offices. It includes court cases, property deeds, birth and death records, business licenses, and arrest reports. You can search by name, case number, parcel ID, or date. The index helps you find what you need fast without guessing where to go. Most records are free to view online or in person. Copies cost money, but the search itself doesn’t. This system saves time for lawyers, researchers, and regular people who need official info.
Court Records in Kershaw County
Court records in Kershaw County include civil lawsuits, criminal charges, family law cases, and probate matters. These are kept by the Clerk of Court at 1121 Broad Street, Room 313, Camden, SC 29020. Office hours are 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday. You can walk in and ask to see any public file. Staff will help you find it. Copies cost $0.50 per page. Certified copies cost $1.00 extra. If you send a written request, pay $20.00 first. Then they’ll mail you a bill after counting pages. The online court index lets you search by party name, case number, or filing date.
https://www.kershaw.sc.gov/government/departments-a-g/clerk-of-court/court-records
Property and Land Records
Property records in Kershaw County are managed by the Register of Deeds. This office is at 515 Walnut Street, Room 180, Camden, SC 29020. It holds deeds, mortgages, liens, plat maps, and tax assessment sheets. You can search by owner name or parcel ID. Office hours are 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday. Phone: (803) 425-7235. Copies cost $0.50 per page. Certified copies cost $1.00 more. The office also offers free online access to property summaries and GIS maps that show flood zones, zoning, and boundaries.
Vital Records: Birth, Death, Marriage, and Divorce
Vital records like birth, death, marriage, and divorce certificates are issued by the Kershaw County Register of Deeds. You must show a photo ID and give the full name of the person on the record. Birth records from 1910 to today are available. Fees are $10.00 per certified copy. These records are not online. You must visit in person or mail a request. The office is at 515 Walnut Street, Room 180, Camden, SC 29020. Hours: 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday. Fax: (803) 425-7699.
Criminal and Arrest Records
Criminal records in Kershaw County include arrest reports, charging documents, and court sentences. The Sheriff’s Records Division keeps these. To get an arrest report, send a written request to 821 Ridgeway Road, Lugoff, SC 29078, or P.O. Box 70, Lugoff, SC 29078. Include the person’s full name, date of arrest, and case number if you have it. Processing takes up to ten business days. Call (803) 425-1512 or fax (803) 425-6021 for questions. Office hours: 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday.
Business and Corporate Records
Business records in Kershaw County include corporate charters, assumed names, and annual reports. These are filed with the County Clerk and can be searched online. The business entity search tool lets you look up active and inactive companies by name or file number. This helps verify ownership, check filings, or research local businesses. There’s no fee to search. Copies of documents cost $0.50 per page. For certified copies, add $1.00.
Online Access to Public Records
Kershaw County offers several online tools to find public records without visiting an office. The Clerk of Court’s Online Public Index shows civil, criminal, and family court cases. The Register of Deeds has a searchable database for property records. The Sheriff’s Office provides an inmate lookup. The county’s GIS mapping system shows property boundaries, flood zones, and zoning. These tools update regularly and are free to use. Some third-party sites also link to these databases, but the county does not run them.
Fees and Payment Options
Kershaw County charges small fees for copying and certifying public records. Standard copies cost $0.50 per page. Certified copies cost $1.00 extra. A written request requires a $20.00 non-refundable search fee. Payments can be made in cash, check, or money order at the office. For mailed requests, include a check with your form. After processing, the county sends an itemized bill. No credit cards are accepted at this time. All fees help cover staff time and materials.
How to Request Records by Mail
To request records by mail, write a letter with your name, address, phone number, and the exact records you need. Include as much detail as possible—names, dates, case numbers, or parcel IDs. Mail it to the correct office: Clerk of Court (1121 Broad St, Room 313), Register of Deeds (515 Walnut St, Room 180), or Sheriff’s Records (P.O. Box 70, Lugoff). Include a $20.00 check for the search fee. Wait for a reply with a cost estimate. Then send payment for copies. Processing takes 7–10 business days.
GIS Mapping and Property Tools
Kershaw County’s GIS system lets you view interactive maps of property lines, zoning, flood zones, and tax parcels. You can overlay different layers to see how land is used. This helps homeowners, buyers, and planners make smart decisions. The tool is free and online. It includes historic plat maps and current assessments. You can also download data for use in other programs. For help, call the Register of Deeds at (803) 425-7235.
Inmate and Jail Records
The Kershaw County Sheriff’s Office maintains a public inmate database. You can search by name to see if someone is currently in jail, their charges, bond amount, and court date. The system updates daily. Visit the Sheriff’s website or call (803) 425-1512. The jail is at 821 Ridgeway Road, Lugoff, SC 29078. Visiting hours and rules are posted online. Arrest reports require a written request as described above.
Tax Records and Delinquent Notices
Tax records show property values, tax bills, and payment history. The County Assessor and Tax Collector keep these. You can view them online or in person at 515 Walnut Street, Room 180. Delinquent tax notices list unpaid properties and are updated monthly. If you want to challenge an assessment, file an appeal through the online portal or in person. Fees may apply for certified tax documents.
Probate and Estate Records
Probate records include wills, estate filings, guardianship papers, and adoption files. These are handled by the Probate Court and stored with the Clerk of Court. Most are public, but some adoption records are sealed. You can view them during office hours at 1121 Broad Street, Room 313. Copies cost $0.50 per page. Certified copies cost $1.00 more. Search by name or case number online or in person.
Civil and Small Claims Court Filings
Civil court records cover lawsuits, evictions, contract disputes, and more. Small claims cases are filed in Magistrate Court. Both are listed in the Online Public Index. You can track a case from start to finish, see hearings, and check outcomes. This helps lawyers, defendants, and plaintiffs stay informed. No login is needed. Just enter a name or case number.
Marriage Licenses and Divorce Decrees
Marriage licenses are issued by the Register of Deeds. Both parties must apply in person with ID and pay a fee. Divorce decrees are court records kept by the Clerk of Court. They become public after final judgment. You can request a copy for $0.50 per page. Certified copies cost $1.00 extra. These records prove legal status and are often needed for remarriage or benefits.
Historical Records and Archives
Kershaw County keeps historical records dating back to the 1800s. These include old deeds, court minutes, and census summaries. Some are digitized; others are only on paper. Researchers can visit the Register of Deeds or Clerk of Court to view them. The county also offers a free online census summary with population trends, income data, and housing stats from the latest U.S. Census.
Third-Party Record Search Sites
Several websites link to Kershaw County’s official databases. These include County Office, State Records, and Public Records Online Searches. They are not run by the county but are trusted sources. They organize links and explain how to use them. Always double-check info with the official county site. Avoid sites that charge high fees for free public data.
Common Reasons People Search Public Records
People look up public records for many reasons. Homebuyers check property titles and liens. Employers verify criminal history. Lawyers track court cases. Genealogists find birth and death records. Journalists investigate local issues. Anyone can use these tools to stay informed and protect their rights. The process is open, fair, and designed for public access.
Tips for Faster Record Searches
To get records quickly, bring as much info as possible: full names, dates, case numbers, or parcel IDs. Use the online indexes first. Call ahead to confirm office hours. For mail requests, include a self-addressed stamped envelope. Avoid peak times like Monday mornings. If you’re unsure which office has the record, call (803) 425-7223 for the Clerk of Court or (803) 425-7235 for the Register of Deeds.
Legal Rights to Public Records
South Carolina law says most government records are public. You have the right to view and copy them unless they’re sealed by court order. There’s no need to say why you want them. Fees must be reasonable. If a request is denied, you can appeal. The county must respond within 15 days. This openness builds trust and holds officials accountable.
Contact Information for Kershaw County Offices
Clerk of Court: 1121 Broad Street, Room 313, Camden, SC 29020 | Phone: (803) 425-7223 | Hours: 8:30 AM–5:00 PM, Mon–Fri
Register of Deeds: 515 Walnut Street, Room 180, Camden, SC 29020 | Phone: (803) 425-7235 | Hours: 8:30 AM–4:30 PM, Mon–Fri
Sheriff’s Records: 821 Ridgeway Road, Lugoff, SC 29078 | Phone: (803) 425-1512 | Hours: 8:30 AM–4:30 PM, Mon–Fri
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are common questions about the Kershaw County Public Records Index. Each answer gives clear, helpful info based on current county rules and state law. If you don’t find what you need, call the office directly.
How do I get a certified copy of a birth certificate in Kershaw County?
To get a certified birth certificate, go to the Register of Deeds at 515 Walnut Street, Room 180, Camden, SC 29020. Bring a valid photo ID and the full name of the person on the certificate. Birth records from 1910 to today are available. The fee is $10.00 per copy. You can also mail a request with a check and a copy of your ID. Processing takes 7–10 days. Only immediate family or legal representatives can request birth records. The office does not offer online ordering. Certified copies have a raised seal and are accepted by banks, schools, and government agencies.
Can I search Kershaw County court records online for free?
Yes, you can search Kershaw County court records online at no cost. The Clerk of Court’s Online Public Index lets you look up civil, criminal, and family cases by name, case number, or date. The system updates every night. You can see docket entries, hearing dates, and final judgments. However, you cannot download full documents online. To get copies, visit the office or mail a request. There’s a $20.00 search fee for mailed requests, plus $0.50 per page for copies. Certified copies cost $1.00 extra. The online search is free and open to everyone.
What records are not available to the public in Kershaw County?
Not all records are public. Sealed court files, juvenile records, certain adoption papers, and some mental health records are private by law. Police investigation files may be withheld if they’re active. Social Security numbers and bank details are redacted from public documents. If a record is sealed, you must get a court order to view it. The county will tell you if a record is restricted. Always ask staff if you’re unsure. Most everyday records—like deeds, marriages, and arrests—are open unless a judge says otherwise.
How long does it take to get property records from the Register of Deeds?
Property records are usually ready the same day if you visit in person. The Register of Deeds is open 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday. You can search by owner name or parcel ID. Copies cost $0.50 per page. Certified copies cost $1.00 more. If you mail a request, include a $20.00 search fee. Processing takes 7–10 business days. You’ll get a bill for the exact copy cost afterward. For urgent needs, call (803) 425-7235 to check wait times. The office also offers free online summaries of property data.
Do I need to pay to view public records in person?
No, you do not pay to view public records in person. You can walk into the Clerk of Court, Register of Deeds, or Sheriff’s Office during business hours and ask to see any public file. Staff will help you find it. You only pay if you want copies—$0.50 per page—or certified copies at $1.00 extra. There’s no charge just to look. This follows South Carolina’s Freedom of Information Act. The goal is to make government transparent and accessible to all citizens.
Can I get arrest records for someone in Kershaw County?
Yes, you can get arrest records from the Kershaw County Sheriff’s Records Division. Send a written request to 821 Ridgeway Road, Lugoff, SC 29078, or P.O. Box 70, Lugoff, SC 29078. Include the person’s full name, date of arrest, and case number if known. There’s no fee to request, but you may pay for copies later. Processing takes up to ten business days. Call (803) 425-1512 for questions. Note: Arrest records show charges, not guilt. Court records show final outcomes.
Are Kershaw County public records updated in real time?
Most Kershaw County public records are updated nightly. Court dockets, property filings, and inmate lists refresh each day. However, some records—like mailed requests or certified copies—take longer. Third-party sites may lag by a few days. For the most current info, use the official county portals or visit in person. The Clerk of Court and Register of Deeds update their systems Monday through Friday. Weekends and holidays cause slight delays. Always double-check critical info before making decisions.