Buchanan County Court operates as the 29th Judicial Circuit of Virginia, serving the community from the courthouse at 1012 Walnut Street in Grundy. The Buchanan County Court docket is managed by Clerk Hon. Beverly S. Tiller, whose office handles all case filings, scheduling, and record requests. For anyone needing to access Buchanan County Court records or check a Buchanan County Court case search, the clerk’s office provides direct help by phone at (276) 935-6567 or email at btiller@vacourts.gov. Office hours run from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, giving citizens a clear window to get Buchanan County Court contact information or ask about a Buchanan County Court calendar. The physical mailing address is Post Office Box 929, Grundy, VA 24614. This office processes everything from Buchanan County Court criminal cases, Buchanan County Court civil cases, Buchanan County Court traffic tickets, and Buchanan County Court probate matters. People can also use this office for a Buchanan County Court marriage license, Buchanan County Court birth certificate requests, or to handle Buchanan County Court jury duty questions. The Buchanan County Court website offers online payment options for fines and costs, which simplifies the process for anyone with a traffic citation or criminal fine.
Buchanan County Court terms start on the second Monday of January, April, July, and October, with criminal terms beginning on the fourth Monday of those same months. Anyone tracking a Buchanan County Court docket should know that all cases are set at an early docket call on the fourth Thursday before each term starts and on the term day itself. Court convenes at 9:00 AM, so parties need to be ready for Buchanan County Court proceedings at that time. The Buchanan County Court judge panel includes Hon. Jack S. Hurley Jr. as Chief Judge, along with Hon. Michael Lee Moore, Hon. Richard C. Patterson, and Hon. Brian K. Patton. For those needing Buchanan County Court forms, the Virginia Judicial System self-help page provides access to circuit court forms for civil actions, probate matters, and other filings. The Buchanan County Court case lookup system lets people check case status and information online through the Virginia court portal. People can also access Buchanan County Court services like e-filing, interpreter request forms, and ADA accommodation forms through the same system. The Buchanan County Court address and Buchanan County Court phone number remain the primary contact points for anyone needing direct assistance with their case.
Search Buchanan County Court Cases and Public Records
Buchanan County sits in northwest Missouri along the Missouri River. St. Joseph serves as the county seat. The Buchanan County Circuit Court handles criminal cases, civil disputes, family matters, and probate issues for residents across the county. Finding court case information requires understanding which court system holds the records and what tools the public can use to search them.
| Court Type | Jurisdiction | Record Location |
|---|---|---|
| Circuit Court | All civil and criminal cases | St. Joseph, MO |
| Associate Circuit Court | Minor civil cases, traffic, small claims | St. Joseph, MO |
| Municipal Court | City ordinance violations | St. Joseph Municipal Court |
| Probate Court | Wills, estates, guardianships | St. Joseph, MO |
Buchanan County courts operate under the Missouri court system. Case records are managed at the county level and through the state-wide Case.net portal operated by the Missouri Judicial Branch. Anyone can access most court records using the online search tools available through the official court website.
Accessing the Buchanan County Court Case Portal
The primary online tool for searching Buchanan County court cases is Case.net. This is the official case management system for Missouri courts. Case.net provides access to case filings, docket entries, judgment details, and hearing schedules. Users search by party name, case number, attorney name, or filing date.
To start a search:
- The Missouri Courts Case.net Portal https://www.courts.mo.gov/ in your browser
- Select Buchanan County from the county filter dropdown
- Enter the search term in the party name or case number field
- Review the results list showing case type, filing date, and status
- Click on a case number to view full docket entries and documents
Case.net does not require an account for basic searches. Users who need to file documents electronically or manage cases must register for an eFiling account through the Missouri eFiling System at Missouri Courts eFiling.
Types of Cases Handled in Buchanan County Circuit Court
The Buchanan County Circuit Court operates with several divisions. Each division handles specific case types. Knowing which division holds the record speeds up your search and helps you locate the correct filing office.
| Division | Case Types | Search Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Civil Division | Personal injury, contract disputes, property claims over $25,000 | Search by plaintiff or defendant name |
| Criminal Division | Felonies and serious misdemeanors | Search by defendant name or case number |
| Family Division | Divorce, child custody, adoption, paternity | Records may be restricted in some family cases |
| Probate Division | Wills, estate administration, guardianships | Search by decedent name or estate number |
| Small Claims Division | Claims under $5,000 | Search by plaintiff or defendant name |
Each division maintains separate docket books and filing systems. Case.net consolidates records from all divisions into one search interface. Some older records may exist only in paper format at the courthouse. For those records, you must visit or contact the clerk’s office directly.
Searching by Party Name in Case.net
Name searches are the most common method for finding court cases. Case.net allows last name, first name, and full name searches. The system returns results that match the search terms. Using partial names or alternate spellings helps find cases where names may appear differently in court filings.
Steps for an effective name search:
- Type the last name in the Last Name field
- Type the first name or first initial in the First Name field
- Select Buchanan County from the county list
- Click Search to view matching cases
- Use the filters to narrow by case type, filing date range, or case status
The search results show basic information: case number, party names, case type, filing date, and current status. Click on the case number to view the docket sheet, which lists all court events, filings, and orders in that case. Documents filed in the case may be available for viewing depending on the court’s document access policies.
Searching by Case Number
If you know the case number, searching by case number is the fastest method. Case numbers in Buchanan County follow a standard format that identifies the year, case type, and sequence number. A typical case number looks like 24BU-CV00123, where 24 is the year, BU is Buchanan County, CV is civil, and 00123 is the sequence number.
Case number prefixes indicate the case type:
| Prefix | Case Type |
|---|---|
| CV | Civil |
| CR | Criminal |
| DR | Domestic Relations |
| PR | Probate |
| SC | Small Claims |
| JU | Juvenile |
Enter the full case number in the Case Number field on the Case.net search page. The system returns the complete case record, including all parties, attorneys, docket entries, and filed documents. Case number searches provide the most direct path to case information.
Physical Location of Court Records
Buchanan County court records are stored at the Buchanan County Courthouse in St. Joseph. The courthouse houses the Circuit Clerk’s office, which maintains all case files. Visitors can request records in person during business hours. Some records may require an appointment for retrieval if they are stored in off-site archives. The Buchanan County Circuit Clerk’s office is located at 411 Jules Street, St. Joseph, MO 64501. Records are available for public inspection during regular business hours. The clerk’s staff can assist with locating records, copying documents, and providing access to electronic terminals for Case.net searches.
Fees for Court Records and Copies
Accessing court records online through Case.net is free. Viewing docket entries and case information does not require payment. Copying documents from Case.net may incur fees depending on the document format and page count. Paper copies obtained from the clerk’s office have standard per-page fees set by Missouri state law.
| Service | Fee Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Online Case.net access | Free | No charge for viewing case information |
| PDF document download | $0.10 per page | For documents filed electronically |
| Paper copy from the clerk | $0.50 per page | The first copy may have additional fees |
| Certified copy | $2.00 per document plus copy fee | Official certified copies for legal use |
| Search certification | $5.00 | Certified search results for legal proceedings |
Fee amounts are set by the Missouri Supreme Court and may change. Check with the Buchanan County Circuit Clerk for current fee schedules. Some waivers or reductions may apply for individuals with financial hardship, particularly in family court or probate matters.
Restricted and Sealed Records in Buchanan County
Not all court records are available for public viewing. Missouri law restricts access to certain types of cases and documents. Sealed records, expunged cases, juvenile records, and certain family court proceedings may be closed to the public. Access to restricted records requires a court order or written permission from the judge.
Types of restricted records:
- Juvenile court records are closed to public access in most cases
- Adoption records are sealed by statute
- Mental health commitment proceedings are confidential
- Expunged criminal records are removed from public view
- Records sealed by court order are not searchable through Case.net
- Some family court records may be restricted for privacy
If you need access to a restricted record, you must file a motion with the Buchanan County Circuit Court. The motion should explain why you need access and identify the specific case. The judge decides whether to grant access. Attorneys with a need-to-know basis may have broader access under court rules.
Traffic Tickets and Infractions in Buchanan County
Traffic cases in Buchanan County are handled by the Associate Circuit Court and the St. Joseph Municipal Court. Minor traffic infractions appear in these court systems. Serious traffic violations that carry jail time are handled in the Circuit Court. Traffic records are searchable through Case.net for county-level cases. For traffic citations issued by city police in St. Joseph, the St. Joseph Municipal Court maintains separate records. The Municipal Court handles city ordinance violations, including traffic tickets, parking violations, and other city code offenses. Municipal court records are not available through Case.net. Contact the St. Joseph Municipal Court directly at the St. Joseph Municipal Court Official Site for city-level cases.
- The St. Joseph Municipal Court Official
- https://www.stjosephmo.gov/170/Boards-Commissions
Paying traffic tickets online is available for Buchanan County cases. Visit the Missouri Courts Online Payment Portal to pay fines, court costs, and other fees associated with traffic cases. Payment options include credit card, debit card, and electronic check.
Searching for Divorce and Family Court Records
Divorce records and other family court cases are public records in Missouri unless sealed by the court. These cases are filed in the Family Division of the Buchanan County Circuit Court. Searching for divorce records in Case.net uses the same process as other case types. Enter the party names and select Buchanan County to find family court cases. Some details in family court records may be redacted to protect privacy. Social security numbers, bank account numbers, and minor children’s names are typically removed from public filings. Financial affidavits and parenting plans are usually available for viewing unless the court orders them sealed.
Certified copies of divorce decrees are available from the Circuit Clerk’s office. These official copies are needed for legal purposes such as remarriage, name changes, or insurance changes. The cost for a certified copy includes the certification fee plus the per-page copy fee.
Finding Criminal Court Recostate Filings
The Probate Division of the Buchanan County Circuit Court handles wills, estate administration, guardianships, and conservatorships. Probate records are public. Anyone searchable through Case.net can view probate filings, including the will, inventory of assets, and final distribution orders. Some guardianship records may be restricted to protect vulnerable adults or minors.
Probate case numbers use the PR prefix. Searching by the decedent’s name is the most common method. The probate docket shows the appointed personal representative or executor, the attorney handling the estate, and all filings related to the administration of the estate. Court hearings in probate cases are open to the public unless the judge orders closure for specific issues.
Jury Duty Information for Buchanan County
Residents of Buchanan County may be called for jury duty in the Buchanan County Circuit Court. Jury selection occurs regularly throughout the year. Potential jurors receive a summons by mail with reporting instructions. The jury office provides information about service dates, deferral requests, and accommodations for jurors with special needs. Check your jury status and report instructions at the Buchanan County Jury Duty Information Page. Jurors who need to reschedule service may contact the jury office by phone or email. Employer verification letters are available from the clerk’s office for employers who require proof of jury service.
Failure to appear for jury duty can result in penalties, including fines or contempt of court. Jurors with conflicts should contact the jury office before the reporting date to request a deferral or excuse. The court makes accommodations for medical conditions, caregiving responsibilities, and other hardship situations.
Court Calendar and Hearing Schedules
Buchanan County Circuit Court publishes daily and weekly court calendars. These calendars show scheduled hearings, trials, and motion dockets for each division. Court calendars are available online and posted at the courthouse. Checking the calendar before visiting the courthouse helps you confirm that hearings are still scheduled and have not been continued. Access the Missouri Court Schedule Portal to view daily dockets for Buchanan County. The schedule shows the courtroom number, judge presiding, case number, party names, and hearing type. Some hearings are closed to the public by law, including certain juvenile and family court proceedings.
Court schedules change frequently. Cases may be continued, settled, or removed from the docket. Call the clerk’s office before traveling to the courthouse for a specific hearing. Confirming the schedule saves time and prevents unnecessary trips to the courthouse.
Filing a Case in Buchanan County Circuit Court
Individuals filing a new case in Buchanan County must submit documents to the Circuit Clerk’s office. Cases can be filed in person at the courthouse or electronically through the Missouri eFiling system. E-filing is required for attorneys in most case types. Self-represented parties may file in person or by mail. The filing fee varies by case type. Small claims cases have lower fees than civil cases with higher damage amounts. Fee schedules are published by the Missouri Supreme Court and are available at the clerk’s office. Filing fees must be paid at the time of filing unless a fee waiver is granted by the court.
Fee waiver requests require a completed Application for Waiver of Filing Fees and court costs. The judge reviews the application and decides whether to grant the waiver based on the applicant’s financial situation. Fee waivers are available in most case types but are not automatic.
Appealing a Buchanan County Court Decision
Parties who disagree with a Buchanan County Circuit Court decision may appeal to the Missouri Court of Appeals, Western District. The Western District is located in Kansas City, Missouri. Appeals must be filed within the time limits set by Missouri court rules. Most civil appeals must be filed within 30 days of the final judgment. The appeal process begins with filing a Notice of Appeal with the Buchanan County Circuit Clerk. The clerk then prepares the record on appeal, which includes all documents and exhibits from the trial court. The record is transmitted to the Court of Appeals for review. The appellate court may affirm, reverse, or modify the trial court’s decision.
Further appeals from the Missouri Court of Appeals go to the Missouri Supreme Court in Jefferson City. The Supreme Court accepts cases involving significant legal questions, constitutional issues, or conflicts between appellate districts. Most appeals end at the Court of Appeals level.
Buchanan County Court Contact and Location Details
- Official Court Portal: https://www.courts.mo.gov
- Case Search Portal: https://www.courts.mo.gov
- Buchanan County Circuit Clerk Phone: (816) 271-1420
- Operational Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (Excluding Court Holidays)
- Physical Address: 411 Jules Street, St. Joseph, MO 64501
- St. Joseph Municipal Court: https://www.stjosephmo.gov/170/Municipal-Court
Frequently Asked Questions
Buchanan County Court serves Southwest Virginia through the 29th Judicial Circuit. The Circuit Court handles felony criminal cases, civil disputes over $25,000, divorces, and appeals. The General District Court manages traffic tickets, misdemeanors, and small claims. Both courts sit at 1012 Walnut Street in Grundy, VA. The Clerk of Court keeps all case records, processes filings, and collects fees. Citizens can access court services in person, by phone, or through online payment systems. The court offers jury service, interpreter access, and self-help forms for people who represent themselves. This FAQ answers the most common questions about contacts, records, filings, and court procedures.
What is the Buchanan County Court phone number and address?
Buchanan Circuit Court sits at 1012 Walnut Street, Grundy, VA 24614. The mailing address is PO Box 929, Grundy, VA 24614-7115. The clerk’s phone number is (276) 935-6567. The fax number is 276-935-7086. Clerk hours run from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. For General District Court matters, call (276) 935-6526. The district court fax is (276) 935-5479. That court shares the same building at 1012 Walnut Street, Suite 309. Both courts serve the Grundy area and the surrounding Buchanan County communities. Park in the public lot near the Walnut Street entrance. Enter through the main doors where security screening takes place.
How do I search Buchanan County Court records and case information?
Virginia offers online case lookup through the Circuit Court Case Information system. Visit the Virginia Courts website and select circuit court case search. You need the case number or party name. The search shows charges, hearing dates, judgments, and dispositions. For General District Court cases, use the separate district court case search tool. Civil cases, criminal cases, and traffic infractions appear in these databases. Older records may require an in-person visit to the Clerk of Court’s office. The clerk charges a fee for certified copies. Walk-in visitors can use the public terminal at 1012 Walnut Street to search cases during business hours.
What types of cases does the Buchanan Circuit Court handle?
The Buchanan Circuit Court hears felony criminal cases such as grand larceny, drug distribution, and violent crimes. Civil cases with claims over $25,000 go to this court. Family law matters, including divorce, child custody, child support, and adoption, are handled here. The court also hears appeals from the General District Court and Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court. Land disputes, contract disputes, and wrongful death cases are common civil filings. The court convenes four terms per year, starting the second Monday of January, April, July, and October. Grand juries meet on those same Mondays. Criminal terms begin on the fourth Monday of those months. Civil terms start on the second Tuesday.
How do I pay Buchanan County Court fines and traffic tickets?
Pay fines and traffic tickets online through the Virginia Courts e-payment system. Visit the Virginia Judicial System website and select Pay Criminal Cases and Traffic Tickets. Enter your case number or name to view the balance. Pay by credit card or electronic check. You can also pay in person at the clerk’s office at 1012 Walnut Street. Cash, money orders, and credit cards are accepted. The court offers payment plan options for people who cannot pay the full amount at once. Download the Payment Plan Policies for Fines and Costs from the court website. Submit the request form to the clerk with your proposed payment schedule. Late payments may result in additional fees or license suspension.
Who is the Buchanan County Circuit Court clerk, and what does the office do?
Honorable Beverly S. Tiller serves as Clerk of the Circuit Court for Buchanan County. The clerk’s office files all civil and criminal cases, issues subpoenas and summonses, and processes judgments. The office keeps every court record, including divorce decrees, criminal convictions, and civil judgments. Certified copies of court documents are available for a fee. The clerk also collects fines, costs, and restitution payments. Marriage licenses are issued at this office. The clerk staff assists with forms but cannot give legal advice. Visit the office at 1012 Walnut Street or call (276) 935-6567 during business hours. Mailing address is PO Box 929, Grundy, VA 24614.
What forms do I need for Buchanan County Court, and where do I find them?
Virginia Courts provide standard forms on their website. Go to vacourts.gov and select Forms, then Circuit Court Forms. Common forms include civil complaint forms, divorce forms, and protective order petitions. Probate forms for wills and estates are available on the self-help page. The General District Court has separate forms for traffic, small claims, and misdemeanor cases. Each form includes instructions. Download PDF forms, fill them out, and file them with the clerk at 1012 Walnut Street. Filing fees apply to most civil cases. Use the Circuit Court Civil Filing Fee Calculator on the court website to estimate costs before you file. Ask the clerk staff if you need help finding the correct form.