Adair County Court serves as the central hub for legal matters in Columbia, Kentucky, handling everything from traffic tickets to serious felony cases. Located at 201 Campbellsville Street, Suite 101, the Adair County Judicial Center houses the Adair County Circuit Court, Adair County District Court, and family court divisions. The Adair County Circuit Court handles major civil cases, felony criminal cases, and appeals from lower courts, while the Adair County District Court manages misdemeanors, traffic violations, small claims, and preliminary hearings. The Adair County Court docket and Adair County Court schedule are available online through the Kentucky Court of Justice website, allowing you to search for upcoming hearings by name or case number. The Adair County Court records are maintained by the Office of Circuit Court Clerk Dennis Loy, who can be reached at 270-384-2626. The Adair County Court location is easy to find with parking lots at and next to the building. The Adair County Court hours are Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., closed on weekends and state holidays. For a quick Adair County Court case lookup, use the online portal to search Adair County Court cases by party name or case number.
Adair County Court offers several self-service options to save you time and trips to the courthouse. The Adair County Court forms for civil, criminal, family law, and small claims matters can be downloaded directly from the Kentucky Court of Justice website or completed using the online self-help interview process. Adair County Court fees and fines can be paid online through the ePay system, which accepts credit cards and debit cards for a small service fee. The Adair County Court calendar 2026 includes all regular court sessions and holiday closures, so check the official holiday schedule before filing deadlines. If you receive an Adair County Court summons for jury duty, call 270-384-0296 for instructions. The Adair County Court self-help center provides resources for people representing themselves, including guides on protective orders, probate procedures, and child support. The Adair County Court judges include Chief Circuit Judge Judy Vance Murphy and Chief Regional District Judge Michael Loy, who oversee the 29th Judicial Circuit and 29th Judicial District. For Adair County Court public records requests, contact the circuit court clerk’s office directly or use the online case search tool to access Adair County Court records without visiting in person.
Adair County Court Case Search and Records Lookup
You can search for cases, view dockets, and check records at Adair County Court through the official Kentucky Court of Justice portal. This free service lets you find current and past cases from the Circuit Court and District Court. You do not need an account to use it. The portal covers civil, criminal, traffic, family, and probate cases filed in Adair County. To start your search, visit the Kentucky Court of Justice website. Click on the “Case Search” or “Court Records” link on the main page. Select “Adair County” from the county dropdown menu. Then pick your search type from the options shown. The system will pull up matching cases right away.
You can search Adair County Court cases using these three methods:
- https://www.kycourts.gov/Courts/County-Information/Pages/Adair.aspx
- Party Name Search: Type the last name and first name of a person involved in a case. You can also add a middle initial or business name for better results.
- Case Number Search: Enter the full case number if you know it. This gives you the fastest lookup for one specific case.
- Attorney Bar Number Search: Type a lawyer’s bar number to find every case they handle in the county.
After you run a search, the results page shows the case number, party names, filing date, case type, and current status. Click any case number to see detailed docket entries. Each entry lists the filing date, document type, and the party who filed it. You can also see upcoming hearing dates and the assigned judge on the detail page.
What You Can View Online
The online portal shows case summaries, party lists, charge details, hearing schedules, and document filings. Some sensitive records stay sealed by law. Those include juvenile cases, adoption records, and certain family court matters. Sealed records require a court order to access.
Adair County Court Divisions and Jurisdiction
Adair County Court operates two main divisions inside the Adair County Judicial Center. Each division handles different types of cases. Knowing which court covers your matter helps you file correctly and avoid delays. The Adair County Circuit Court sits in Suite 101 of the Judicial Center at 201 Campbellsville Street. It serves as the higher trial court in the county. The Circuit Court hears major civil cases, felony criminal cases, and appeals from lower courts.
The Adair County District Court also operates from the same building. It handles the day-to-day legal matters of the county. The District Court covers misdemeanors, traffic violations, small claims, and preliminary hearings in felony cases.
| Division | Case Types | Appeals Authority |
|---|---|---|
| Circuit Court | Felony criminal, civil cases over $5,000, probate, family court, appeals from District Court | Kentucky Court of Appeals |
| District Court | Misdemeanors, traffic, small claims up to $2,500, evictions, peace bonds, preliminary felony hearings | Circuit Court |
Adair County belongs to the 29th Judicial Circuit and the 29th Judicial District of Kentucky. The 29th Judicial Circuit also covers Taylor and Casey counties. The Circuit Court judges rotate between these counties based on case load and scheduling needs. Chief Circuit Judge Judy Vance Murphy presides over the circuit. Chief Regional District Judge Michael Loy leads the District Court division.
Adair County Court Schedule and Calendar
The Adair County Court calendar provides information about hearings, trials, motions, and other court proceedings scheduled throughout the year. Court dates may change because of continuances, judicial orders, or other administrative reasons, so parties should verify their hearing information before appearing in court.
Court Schedule Information
- Lists upcoming hearings and trials
- Includes civil, criminal, family, and probate matters
- Shows scheduled motion hearings and court appearances
- Updated when court dates are rescheduled
- Available through official court resources
| Court Service | Details |
|---|---|
| Hearing Dates | Available through case records |
| Trial Schedules | Assigned by the court |
| Motion Hearings | Scheduled by the judge |
| Case Updates | May change without notice |
| Schedule Verification | Recommended before attendance |
Adair County Court Holidays and Office Hours
The Adair County Courthouse observes state and federal holidays during the year, which may affect court proceedings, filing deadlines, and public access to courthouse services. Visitors should confirm operating hours before traveling to the courthouse.
Holiday and Office Information
- Closed on major federal and state holidays
- Filing deadlines may be adjusted during closures
- The clerk’s office handles record requests and filings
- Business hours may vary during holiday periods
- Advance confirmation is recommended before visiting
| Service | Information |
|---|---|
| Courthouse Access | Available during business hours |
| Record Requests | Processed by the clerk’s office |
| Court Filings | Accepted on business days |
| Holiday Closures | Follow state and local schedules |
| Schedule Questions | Contact the clerk’s office |
Circuit Court and District Court Days
The Circuit Court holds felony and major civil terms on set dates each month. The District Court runs criminal and civil terms on different days during the week. Jury trials get scheduled for specific weeks. The clerk posts the full term schedule at the courthouse and online.
Adair County Court Fees and Online Payment
Adair County Court fees cover filing costs, record copies, and service of process. The fees follow the state schedule set by the Kentucky Court of Justice. Most filings require a fee at the time of submission. The clerk’s office accepts cash, checks, money orders, and credit cards in person. For online payments, use the Kentucky ePay system. You can pay fines, fees, and restitution through the ePay portal. The system accepts Visa, MasterCard, and Discover. A small service fee applies to each card transaction.
| Service | Fee Amount | Payment Method |
|---|---|---|
| Civil case filing | $187.00 | Cash, check, card, online |
| Small claims filing (under $2,500) | $46.00 | Cash, check, card, online |
| Certified record copy | $5.00 per document | Cash, check, online |
| Marriage license | $36.00 | Cash, check |
| Probate filing | Varies by estate value | Cash, check |
To pay a traffic ticket or criminal fine online, visit the Kentucky ePay system at https://www.kycourts.gov/Pages/index.aspx and select the ePay option. Enter your case number and date of birth. The system shows your total balance. Follow the prompts to complete payment with a credit or debit card. You receive a receipt by email once the payment clears.
Adair County Court Forms and Self-Help Center
You can download Adair County Court forms for free from the Kentucky Court of Justice website. The forms cover civil actions, criminal cases, family law matters, probate filings, and small claims. Each form includes instructions on the first page. Read the instructions before you fill out any form. The Adair County Court self-help center offers extra support for people who represent themselves. The center provides guides on protective orders, divorce filings, child support, name changes, and probate procedures. Staff can help you pick the right form and explain each section. They cannot give legal advice or speak for you in court.
Forms available for download include:
- AOC-100: Civil Summons
- AOC-280: Petition for Dissolution of Marriage
- AOC-275: Domestic Violence Order (Petition)
- AOC-740: Small Claims Complaint
- AOC-810: Probate Cover Sheet
- AOC-455: Motion for Continuance
Many forms also have an online interview option. The Kentucky Court of Justice “Guide and File” tool asks you questions and fills out the form for you. You can print the completed form and file it with the clerk. This tool covers uncontested divorce, name change, and small claims matters.
Where to File Your Forms
Bring completed forms to the clerk’s office at 201 Campbellsville Street, Suite 101, Columbia, KY 42728. The clerk will stamp your filing and assign a case number. Pay the filing fee at the same window. Keep your copy of the filed document for your records.
Adair County Court Judges and Court Personnel
The Adair County Circuit Court and District Court employ full-time judges and a court staff. The Circuit Court Clerk manages all filings, records, and financial transactions for both courts. Dennis Loy serves as the current Circuit Court Clerk. The clerk’s office handles passports, marriage licenses, and jury duty management. Judges hear cases, rule on motions, and sign orders. They also handle arrangements, sentencings, and bench trials. The Circuit Court has two judges, and the District Court has one regional judge and one trial commissioner.
| Name | Position | Division |
|---|---|---|
| Judy Vance Murphy | Chief Circuit Judge | 29th Judicial Circuit |
| Michael Loy | Chief Regional District Judge | 29th Judicial District |
| Dennis Loy | Circuit Court Clerk | Both Courts |
Court reporters record the words spoken during hearings and trials. They prepare written transcripts when parties request them. To order a transcript, contact the clerk’s office. You will pay a fee based on the length of the hearing. Allow 30 to 60 days for a full transcript to be completed.
Adair County Court Jury Duty and Summons
If you receive an Adair County Court summons for jury duty, you must respond. The summons includes your reporting date, time, and courthouse location. Most jury service lasts one day or one trial. You will receive a small daily payment for your service. To confirm your jury duty or ask questions, call 270-384-0296. The jury coordinator can verify your date and explain the check-in process. You can also request a postponement or hardship exemption through this number.
Before you report for jury duty, remember to bring:
- A valid photo ID (driver’s license or state ID)
- Your jury summons notice
- Any medication you may need during the day
- A book or electronic device for waiting periods
Parking is available at the Judicial Center and the lot next to the building. Enter the courthouse through the main doors on Campbellsville Street. You will pass through a security checkpoint. Plan to arrive 30 minutes early for the check-in process.
Failure to Appear
Skipping jury duty can result in a contempt of court charge. The court may fine you or issue a bench warrant. If you cannot attend, contact the jury office before your reporting date. The court can reschedule you for a later term without penalty.
Adair County Public Records and Document Requests
Adair County Court public records include dockets, case files, motions, orders, and judgments. You can view most of these records online through the case search portal. Some records require an in-person visit to the clerk’s office. You can also request certified copies of documents by mail. To request a certified copy by mail, send a written request to the Circuit Court Clerk at 201 Campbellsville Street, Suite 101, Columbia, KY 42728. Include the case number, document name, and your contact information. Enclose a check or money order for the copy fee. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope for return delivery.
Public records you can request include:
- Marriage certificates and licenses
- Divorce decrees
- Probate records and wills (once filed)
- Criminal case dispositions
- Civil judgments and liens
- Court orders and judgments
Some records stay sealed by law. These include juvenile cases, mental health commitments, and certain family court files. To access sealed records, you must file a motion with the court. The judge will decide whether to grant access based on Kentucky law.
Adair County Family Court and Probate Services
The Adair County Family Court division sits inside the Circuit Court. It handles divorce, child custody, child support, adoption, and domestic violence cases. The same Circuit Court judges hear family law matters along with other civil cases. The court focuses on the best interests of children in custody and support cases. Probate matters also fall under the Circuit Court. The probate division handles wills, estates, guardianships, and conservatorships. The clerk’s office can help you start a probate case after a person dies. You must file the will and a petition for administration.
Family court and probate filings include:
- Petition for dissolution of marriage (divorce)
- Petition for custody and support
- Motion for child support modification
- Petition for a domestic violence order
- Petition for adoption
- Petition for guardianship of a minor
- Petition to probate a will
Domestic violence petitions receive priority on the docket. The court can issue an emergency protective order (EPO) within hours of filing. The full hearing for a domestic violence order (DVO) happens within 14 days. The self-help center staff can help you fill out the petition safely.
Adair County Traffic Court and Small Claims
Adair County Traffic Court operates as part of the District Court. It handles speeding tickets, DUI charges, license violations, and other moving violations. If you receive a traffic ticket, you can pay the fine, contest the charge, or request traffic school. The choice you make affects your driving record and insurance rates. Small claims court covers disputes involving $2,500 or less. Common cases include unpaid debts, security deposit returns, and property damage claims. You do not need a lawyer for small claims court. The procedures are simple, so people can represent themselves.
To file a small claims case, follow these steps:
- Pick up the Small Claims Complaint form (AOC-740) from the clerk’s office or download it online.
- Fill out the form with your name, the defendant’s name, the amount owed, and a short description of the dispute.
- Bring the form to the clerk’s office and pay the $46.00 filing fee.
- The clerk will issue a summons and arrange for service of process on the defendant.
- Attend the hearing on the date listed on your summons. Bring any evidence or witnesses to support your claim.
If you receive a small claims summons, respond by the date on the document. Failure to appear can lead to a default judgment against you. You have the right to present your side of the story at the hearing.
Adair County Court Live Stream and Hearing Access
You can watch some Adair County Court hearings through the Kentucky Court of Justice live stream. The court broadcasts select proceedings on its website. You can find the live stream link on the kycourts.gov home page during scheduled hearings.
Live stream access is available for:
- Supreme Court oral arguments
- Court of Appeals oral arguments
- Selected Circuit Court trials in high-profile cases
Not every local hearing streams online. Family court cases, juvenile matters, and sealed proceedings stay closed to the public. The court may also close a hearing for security or privacy reasons under Kentucky law.
Adair County Court Appeals Process
If you lose a case in Adair County District Court, you can appeal to the Circuit Court. If you lose a case in Circuit Court, you can appeal to the Kentucky Court of Appeals. Each level of appeal has strict deadlines and procedures. Missing a deadline can end your right to appeal.
To file an appeal from the District Court to the Circuit Court, follow these steps:
- File a Notice of Appeal with the District Court clerk within 30 days of the judgment date.
- Pay the $100.00 filing fee for civil appeals.
- Order the transcript of the original hearing from the court reporter.
- File a brief explaining the legal errors you believe the court made.
- Attend the appeal hearing in Circuit Court.
For appeals from Circuit Court to the Kentucky Court of Appeals, the process is more complex. You must file a Notice of Appeal within 30 days. The case moves to the appellate court in Frankfort, Kentucky. The Court of Appeals reviews the legal record and briefs. It does not hear new evidence or new witnesses.
Adair County Courthouse Security and Visitor Rules
The Adair County Judicial Center uses security screening at the front entrance. All visitors must pass through a metal detector. You cannot bring weapons, sharp objects, or illegal substances into the building. Leave these items in your car or at home. Cell phones are allowed in the courthouse. You must silence your phone inside courtrooms. Recording or photographing inside courtrooms requires the judge’s permission. The court prohibits food and drinks in the courtrooms. Water bottles with lids are allowed in the lobby area.
Items you cannot bring into the courthouse:
- Firearms or knives of any size
- Tools or sharp objects
- Illegal drugs or controlled substances
- Outside food and beverages (except sealed water)
- Recording equipment without prior approval
The courthouse has public restrooms on each floor. A small café operates in the basement during lunch hours. The building is fully accessible to people with mobility needs. Elevators serve all public floors of the Judicial Center.
Adair County Court Contact & Location Details
The Adair County Court operates within the Adair County Judicial Center, located in the heart of downtown Columbia. This court handles all local legal matters, including criminal cases, civil disputes, family law, and traffic violations.
Contact Directory & Operating Hours
| Department / Service | Contact Number | Operating Hours (Central Time) |
| Main Circuit Clerk Office | (270) 384-2626 | Mon – Fri: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Jury Duty Coordinator | (270) 384-0296 | Mon – Fri: 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Weekends & Holidays | Closed | Closed on weekends and state holidays |
Physical Address & Parking Information
- Address: 201 Campbellsville Street, Suite 101, Columbia, Kentucky 42728.
- Location Reference: The Judicial Center sits next to the county government buildings in downtown Columbia.
- Parking: Free parking is available in the designated lot behind the building and along the adjacent street.
Online Court Services & Case Lookup
Adair County uses the Kentucky Court of Justice’s centralized online portal for public records and remote services.
- Official Web Portal: https://www.kycourts.gov/Pages/index.aspx
- Online Case Search & Legal Forms: Citizens can use this portal to look up active or historical court cases, check dockets, and download official state court forms.
- Online Payments (ePay): Court-ordered fines, traffic citations, and filing fees can be paid remotely via the ePay system on the website using any major credit or debit card.
Frequently Asked Questions
Adair County Court handles legal cases, traffic tickets, and jury duty for residents. The court is part of the 29th Judicial Circuit and District. This FAQ gives you direct answers for contacting the court, finding case records, paying fines, and getting forms. Use the official phone numbers and online portals to save time.
How do I contact the Adair County Circuit Court?
Call the Adair County Circuit Court Clerk at 270-384-2626. The fax number is 270-384-4299. For jury service questions, call 270-384-0296. The Circuit Court Clerk is Dennis Loy. You can visit the office at 201 Campbellsville Street, Suite 101, Columbia, KY 42728. The office is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. It is closed on weekends and state holidays. Use these contacts for case records, filing questions, and court dates.
Where is the Adair County Judicial Center located, and what are the hours?
The Adair County Judicial Center is at 201 Campbellsville Street, Suite 101, Columbia, KY 42728. Parking lots are at and next to the building. Designated parking is available for people with disability permits. Office hours are Monday to Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The building is closed on Saturdays and Sundays. Check the Kentucky Court of Justice holiday calendar for closure dates. Arrive before 4:00 p.m. to complete your business.
How can I search Adair County Court case records online?
Go to the Kentucky Court of Justice website to search Circuit and District Court case records. You can search by name or case number. The online system shows case details, hearing dates, and court documents. For older records, call the Circuit Court Clerk at 270-384-2626. The clerk can tell you if a record is stored at a facility. You will need the case number and file locator number to access those records. Some records may be destroyed based on retention schedules.
How do I pay Adair County Court fines and fees online?
Pay fines and fees online using the Kentucky ePay system. Visit the Kentucky Court of Justice website and select the ePay option. You can pay with a credit card or a debit card. A service fee applies. Cash, check, and money order are accepted in person at the clerk’s office. Online payment is available for most countries. If you have trouble, call the clerk at 270-384-2626. Pay on time to avoid late penalties or additional court costs.
How do I get forms for Adair County Court cases?
Download court forms from the Kentucky Court of Justice website. Forms are available for civil, criminal, family law, and small claims cases. You can also use the online self-help tool to fill out forms step by step. Print the completed forms and bring them to the Adair County Circuit Court Clerk’s office. The clerk can answer questions about which form you need. Some forms require a notary. Call 270-384-2626 for help with specific filings.
How do I serve on jury duty in Adair County?
Jurors are chosen at random from lists of registered voters and driver’s license holders. If you get a summons, call the jury service line at 270-384-0296 for instructions. Report to the Adair County Judicial Center at the time stated on your summons. Bring the summons and a valid ID. Dress appropriately. If you need an accommodation for a disability, contact the clerk at least 48 hours before your service date. Failure to appear can result in a penalty. Check the court website for updates.