Cedar County Court serves the residents of northeast Nebraska from its location in Hartington. The county court handles traffic violations, small claims, misdemeanor criminal cases, and civil disputes up to $51,000. The court clerk, Diane Sudbeck, manages daily operations and can assist with case filings, court calendars, and record requests. Cedar County Court office hours are 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Monday through Friday. The physical address is 101 S Broadway Ave, Hartington, NE 68739, and the mailing address is PO Box 695, Hartington, NE 68729. The direct phone number for the county court is 402-254-7441. For a Cedar County Court case search, users can access the Nebraska Judicial Branch online portal to look up dockets and case information. The court also provides forms for name changes, protection orders, and small claims. Understanding how to contact the clerk and where to find records saves time for anyone needing legal information or court services.
Cedar County Court also offers online resources for case lookup and e-filing through the Nebraska JUSTICE system. People searching for a Cedar County Court docket can check court calendars by date or party name. The district court handles felony criminal cases, divorces, child custody, and civil cases over $51,000 and operates from the same courthouse. Cedar County District Court phone number is 402-254-6957, and email is districtcourtclk@cedarcountyne.gov. Both courts provide passport application services, notary public, and interpreter accommodations. For those dealing with traffic court, small claims court, or family court matters, the self-help center on the judicial branch website offers step-by-step instructions. Cedar County Court judge Hon. Sara E. Bauer presides over county court proceedings. Knowing the correct court for your case type and the proper Cedar County Court address or phone number ensures you file paperwork correctly and meet deadlines. Always verify current fees and forms online before visiting the courthouse.
Cedar County Court Case Lookup and Online Search
The Nebraska Judicial Branch provides an online case search tool for Cedar County Court records. This system lets you find information about civil, criminal, traffic, and small claims cases filed in Cedar County. You can search by case number, party name, or attorney name. The online case search covers records from both the Cedar County Court and the Cedar County District Court.
- The Cedar County Court
- https://nebraskajudicial.gov/courts/cedar-county-court
To start a search, visit the Cedar County Court page on the Nebraska Judicial Branch website. From there, click the link for Online Court Case Search. You will be taken to the statewide public access system. This system is the same one used for all Nebraska county and district courts. It operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, except during scheduled maintenance.
How to Search for a Case in Cedar County Court
Follow these steps to look up a case record. You do not need an account or login to search. The system is free to use.
| Search Type | What to Enter | Example |
|---|---|---|
| By Case Number | Enter the full case number, including the year and court code | CI 25-1234 (Civil case filed in 2025) |
| By Party Name | Enter the last name, then first name (optional) | Smith, John |
| By Attorney Name | Enter the attorney’s last name or bar number | Jones |
| By Date Range | Select a start and end date for filing dates | 01/01/2025 to 12/31/2025 |
After entering your search terms, click the search button. The results list will show matching cases with basic information: case number, case type, filing date, party names, and current status. Click on a case number to view full details, including charges, hearings, judgments, and filed documents.
Court Calendar Search for Cedar County
The Nebraska Judicial Branch offers a court calendar search for hearing schedules. This tool shows upcoming court dates for cases in Cedar County Court. You can search by date, by judge, or by party name. To access the calendar, go to the Court Calendar Search page on the Nebraska Judicial Branch website. Select Cedar County from the dropdown list. Then enter search criteria such as a date range or a last name. The system displays hearing times, courtroom numbers, and case details.
Court calendars update regularly. Check the calendar close to your hearing date to confirm the time and room. Last‑minute changes sometimes happen. If you have questions about a specific hearing, call the Cedar County Court Clerk at 402-254-7441.
Types of Cases Handled in Cedar County Courts
Cedar County has two trial courts: the County Court and the District Court. Each handles different types of cases based on the amount of money involved or the severity of the offense.
Cedar County Court Cases
The County Court handles misdemeanor criminal cases, traffic violations, small claims (up to a certain dollar limit), and civil cases with lower amounts in controversy. Jury trials are possible for certain types of cases. The County Court also handles preliminary hearings for felony cases before they move to the District Court. Most people who interact with the Cedar County legal system will do so through the County Court.
Case types include:
- Traffic tickets and moving violations
- Driving under the influence (DUI) first offenses
- Small claims disputes (money judgments)
- Landlord‑tenant matters
- Protection orders (restraining orders)
- Misdemeanor crimes such as theft, assault, or trespassing
The County Court also has a small claims division where individuals can file cases without an attorney. The process is simpler and faster than a regular civil court. Filing fees are lower. The court clerk can provide forms and instructions for small claims cases.
Cedar County District Court Cases
The District Court handles felony criminal cases, civil cases with larger amounts of money at stake, divorce and family law matters, and appeals from the County Court. Felony cases include offenses like burglary, robbery, drug trafficking, and violent crimes. Civil cases may involve breach of contract, personal injury, or property disputes over a significant dollar value. The District Court also hears juvenile matters through its Juvenile Court division.
The contact information for the District Court Clerk’s office in Cedar County is different from that of the County Court. Use 402-254-6957 for the District Court Clerk. The mailing address for both courts is the same: P.O. Box 796, Hartington, NE 68739. The fax number for both is 402-254-7447.
Cedar County Court Forms and Filing Procedures
The Nebraska Judicial Branch provides free court forms for self‑represented litigants. These forms cover many common legal situations such as divorce, child custody, small claims, protection orders, and name changes. You can download these forms from the Nebraska Judicial Branch website. The clerk’s office in Hartington cannot give legal advice, but they can tell you which forms are required and how to submit them correctly.
Where to Find Court Forms
The General Court Forms page on the Nebraska Judicial Branch website. The forms are organized by category. Each form has instructions explaining what information you need to fill in and where to file the completed form. You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader to open the PDF files.
Forms available for Cedar County Court include:
- https://nebraskajudicial.gov/self-help/general-court-forms/filing-motion-continuance-court-hearing
- Small claims petition and answer forms
- Protection order applications
- Divorce and dissolution of marriage packets
- Child support modification requests
- Motion for continuance (to reschedule a hearing)
- Waiver of summons forms
Filing a Motion for Continuance
If you need to reschedule a court hearing in Cedar County, you must file a Motion for Continuance. The form is available on the Nebraska Judicial Branch website. You must complete it correctly and file it with the court clerk at least a few days before your hearing date. The judge will decide whether to grant the request. If you are representing yourself, the court cannot help you fill out the form. Carefully read the instructions and provide all requested information.
Once you complete the form, deliver the original to the Cedar County Court Clerk’s office. You may mail it or drop it off in person during office hours (8:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday). Keep a copy for your records. If the motion is granted, the clerk will notify you of the new hearing date.
E‑Filing Options
Attorneys in Cedar County must use the Nebraska e‑filing system for most case filings. Self‑represented parties (people without an attorney) are not required to e‑file, but they may choose to do so in some case types. The e‑filing portal is available through the Nebraska Judicial Branch website. If you are a self‑represented litigant and want to use e‑filing, ask the clerk’s office for instructions. E‑filing can save time by eliminating the need to deliver paper documents in person.
The e‑filing system accepts PDF files. You must pay filing fees online using a credit card or an electronic check. The system provides a confirmation receipt when your filing is successful. Always verify that your filing was accepted by checking the case docket online.
Cedar County Court Clerk Services
The court clerk is the main point of contact for the public. The clerk’s office performs many essential functions: accepting filings, maintaining case records, scheduling hearings, issuing summons and subpoenas, collecting fines and fees, and providing information to the public. The Cedar County Court Clerk is Diane (based on the official Nebraska Judicial Branch directory). The Clerk’s office is located in the Cedar County Courthouse in Hartington, Nebraska.
Services Available at the Clerk’s Office
| Service | Description | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Case filing | Accept new civil, criminal, and traffic case filings | Fees apply; cash, check, or credit card accepted |
| Record requests | Provide copies of case documents and docket sheets | Copy fees per page; certified copies available |
| Hearing scheduling | Set court dates for hearings and trials | The judge’s availability determines the date |
| Passport applications | Accept new passport applications (some offices do this) | Check with clerk before visiting |
| Notary services | Notarize documents for a small fee | Available during office hours |
| Payment of fines and fees | Accept payments for court‑ordered fines, restitution, and costs | Payment plans may be available for some cases |
The clerk’s office does not provide legal advice. Staff can explain general court procedures and help you find forms, but they cannot tell you what to write in your forms or whether you should file a case. For legal advice, contact an attorney or use the Nebraska State Bar Association’s lawyer referral service.
Office Hours and Location
The Cedar County Court Clerk’s office is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. The office is closed on all Nebraska state holidays. Arrive before 4:30 pm to ensure you have enough time to complete your business. The physical location is the Cedar County Courthouse in Hartington. The mailing address is P.O. Box 796, Hartington, NE 68739. You can reach the County Court Clerk by phone at 402-254-7441 and by fax at 402-254-7447. The District Court Clerk has a separate phone number: 402-254-6957.
Parking is available around the courthouse. Enter through the main front doors and follow the signs to the clerk’s office. If you need accommodations for a disability, call ahead so the court can make arrangements.
Records That Are No Longer Available Online
Some old court records from Cedar County are not available through the online case search. The Nebraska Judicial Branch explains on its website that “Records That Are No Longer Available” may be archived. Typically, older records that have been purged from the active database can still be accessed by contacting the clerk’s office. Records may become unavailable after a certain number of years, depending on the case type. For sealed or expunged records, special procedures apply.
If you cannot find a case record online, call or visit the clerk’s office. Provide the case number or the names of the parties. The clerk can check the archive and provide copies. There may be a fee for searching and copying older records.
How to Request Court Records by Mail
You can request copies of court records from Cedar County by mail. Send a written request to the Clerk of the District Court or County Court at P.O. Box 796, Hartington, NE 68739.
Your request should include:
- Case number (if known)
- Full name of the parties involved
- Type of document you need (e.g., judgment, docket sheet, complaint)
- Your name and mailing address
- A check or money order for the copying fee (contact the clerk for current fee amounts)
The clerk will process your request and mail the copies to you. Processing time may take several business days. For urgent requests, consider visiting the office in person or calling ahead.
Cedar County Court Fees
Filing fees in Cedar County Court are set by Nebraska state law. The amount depends on the type of case and the amount of money involved. For example, small claims cases have a lower filing fee than regular civil cases. Criminal and traffic cases have fines and costs that are set by statute. The clerk’s office can provide a fee schedule upon request. Payment methods accepted include cash, check, money order, and credit or debit cards. Do not send cash through the mail.
If you cannot afford to pay the filing fee, you may ask the court for a fee waiver based on indigency. Complete the appropriate form and provide proof of income. The judge will review your request and decide whether to waive or reduce the fee.
Jury Duty in Cedar County Court
Residents of Cedar County may be called for jury duty in either the County Court or the District Court. Jurors are selected randomly from the county voter registration and driver’s license lists. If you receive a jury summons, you must appear on the date specified or request a postponement. The court provides a daily allowance for jurors as set by state law.
For questions about jury duty, contact the Cedar County Court Clerk. You can check your jury status online through the Nebraska Judicial Branch’s e‑services portal if the court offers that option. Always respond to a jury summons promptly. Failure to appear may result in a contempt of court citation.
Additional Resources for Cedar County Court Users
The Nebraska Judicial Branch offers self‑help resources for people who represent themselves in court. These resources include instructional videos, written guides, and interactive interview programs that help you fill out forms correctly. Visit the Court Records page for an overview of what information is public and how to access it.
For attorneys, the Nebraska Judicial Branch provides an e‑filing system, an attorney case search, and continuing legal education resources. Attorneys should also ensure their contact information is current with the Nebraska State Bar Association to receive notices from the court. If you need an interpreter for a court proceeding because you do not speak English well or are hearing impaired, notify the clerk’s office at least 10 days before your hearing. The court will arrange for a qualified interpreter at no cost to you.
Contact, Local Details, and Map
The Cedar County Courthouse in Hartington, Nebraska, manages regional judicial services, processing cases through both the County and District court clerk offices. Public street parking and nearby designated lots are accessible surrounding the facility, with accommodation services available by contacting the administration before visiting.
- General Court Forms: nebraskajudicial.gov/forms
- Official Website: nebraskajudicial.gov
- County Court Clerk Phone: (402) 254-7441 | Clerk: Diane Sudbeck
- District Court Clerk Phone: (402) 254-6957 | Clerk: Janet Wiechelman
- Fax Number: (402) 254-7447 (Shared for both courts)
- Operational Hours: 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday (Excluding State Holidays)
- Physical Address: 101 S. Broadway, Hartington, NE 68739
- Mailing Address: P.O. Box 796, Hartington, NE 68739
- Online Case Search: nebraska.gov/apps-courts-eservice
- Court Calendar Search: nebraskajudicial.gov/calendar
Frequently Asked Questions
Cedar County Court serves residents of Hartington and the surrounding areas in Nebraska. This court handles traffic cases, small claims, civil disputes, criminal matters, and family law issues. The court clerk helps with filings, record requests, and case information. You can reach the office by phone, email, or in person during business hours. Online tools let you search cases, view dockets, and pay fines from home. These FAQs answer common questions about contact details, case searches, forms, and court procedures for the Cedar County Court.
What is the phone number and address for the Cedar County Court in Nebraska?
Cedar County Court is located at PO Box 695 in Hartington, NE 68739. The physical address is on the second floor at 101 S Broadway Ave in Hartington. Office hours run from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday. Call 402-254-7441 for the county court office. For district court matters, dial 402-254-6957. The fax number for both courts is 402-254-7447. Email the district court clerk at districtcourtclk@cedarcountyne.gov. The court clerk, Diane Sudbeck, can answer questions about filing cases, scheduling hearings, and obtaining court records.
How do I search Cedar County Court cases and dockets online?
The Nebraska Judicial Branch offers an online case search tool for Cedar County Court records. You can find cases by case number, party name, or attorney name. This system covers civil, criminal, traffic, and small claims cases. Records from November 1999 to the present are available through the Nebraska JUSTICE online access system. Visit the Nebraska Judicial Branch website and look for the Online Court Case Search option. You can also search court calendars by date or last name. Call the clerk at 402-254-7441 if you need help locating a specific case or understanding case information.
Where can I find Cedar County Court forms and e-filing information?
The Nebraska Supreme Court provides authorized court forms on its self-help website. You can find forms for divorce, protection orders, name changes, small claims, and traffic cases. Visit supremecourt.ne.gov and click on Self-Help. Look for the specific form packet you need. The clerk of the district court can also provide paper forms at the office. E-filing is available for certain case types. Check the Nebraska Judicial Branch website for e-filing instructions and approved vendors. Contact the court clerk if you have questions about which form to use or how to file electronically.
How do I get a copy of Cedar County Court records or search old cases?
Cedar County Court records are public information. Visit the clerk of the district court office on the second floor of the courthouse at 101 S Broadway Ave in Hartington. Staff can direct you to the records, but cannot complete the search for you. Records from the 1880s to the present are available. For genealogy research, naturalization documents have been transferred to the Cedar County Historical Society. Call 402-254-6597 for historical society records. Online records are searchable through the Nebraska JUSTICE system. You can also request copies by mail. Contact the clerk at 402-254-6957 for fees and processing times.
What services does the Cedar County Clerk of the District Court provide?
The clerk of the district court manages criminal and civil case records, tracks court costs and fines, processes protection order applications, and issues writs and orders. The office also serves as a passport acceptance agent. You can apply for passports at the clerk’s office during regular business hours. Visit travel.state.gov for application requirements. The clerk acts as ex officio jury commissioner for the county. The office handles appeals from county court decisions and administrative agencies. The current clerk of the district court is Janet Wiechelman. Reach her office at 402-254-6957 or districtcourtclk@cedarcountyne.gov for questions about district court services.
How do I pay Cedar County Court fines and fees?
Cedar County Court accepts payments for fines, court costs, and fees. You can make payments online through the Nebraska Judicial Branch payment portal. Call the court clerk at 402-254-7441 for payment plan options. The office also accepts payments by mail or in person during business hours. Court costs cover filing fees, service of process fees, and other charges. Request a payment alternative if you cannot pay the full amount. The court can set up a payment schedule. Failure to pay fines may result in additional penalties. Contact the clerk’s office for your specific case balance and payment options.