Hampden County Court Records
What Is Hampden County Court Records
Court records in Hampden County encompass all official documentation generated during legal proceedings within the county's jurisdiction. These records constitute the comprehensive documentation of judicial activities as defined under Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 66, § 10, which establishes the framework for public records in the Commonwealth. Court records typically include:
- Case files containing pleadings, motions, and supporting documentation
- Docket sheets chronicling all actions taken in a case
- Judicial orders and final judgments
- Hearing and trial transcripts
- Evidence and exhibits admitted during proceedings
- Sentencing information in criminal matters
- Marriage and divorce decrees
- Probate determinations and estate settlements
Court records differ from other public records such as property deeds, birth certificates, and tax assessments, which are maintained by separate county departments. The Massachusetts court system maintains a hierarchical structure, with each court generating and preserving its own records:
- Hampden Superior Court (felony criminal cases, major civil litigation)
- Hampden County District Courts (misdemeanors, minor civil cases)
- Hampden County Probate and Family Court (domestic relations, estates)
- Hampden County Juvenile Court (juvenile matters)
- Springfield Housing Court (landlord-tenant disputes)
- Hampden County Land Court (property disputes, title issues)
The Massachusetts Court System maintains these records according to established retention schedules and access protocols that balance public transparency with privacy considerations.
Are Court Records Public In Hampden County
Court records in Hampden County are presumptively public under both the Massachusetts Public Records Law (M.G.L. c. 66, § 10) and the First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which establishes a qualified right of public access to judicial proceedings. The Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court has consistently affirmed the principle of open courts through its decisions and rules.
The following court records are generally accessible to the public:
- Civil case files (with limited exceptions for sealed cases)
- Criminal case files after formal charges have been filed
- Court dockets and calendars
- Final judgments and orders
- Hearing schedules and court calendars
However, certain categories of records may be restricted or redacted pursuant to statute or court rule:
- Cases involving juveniles under M.G.L. c. 119, § 65
- Certain domestic relations matters
- Records containing personal identifying information
- Cases under impoundment orders
- Grand jury proceedings
- Adoption records
It is important to note that federal courts located in Hampden County, including the U.S. District Court and Bankruptcy Court, operate under federal access rules rather than state provisions. The Massachusetts Trial Court Public Access to Court Records Policy provides comprehensive guidance on which records are available and the procedures for accessing them.
How To Find Court Records in Hampden County in 2026
Members of the public seeking court records in Hampden County may utilize several methods to locate and review these documents. The Massachusetts Trial Court currently provides multiple access points for court record retrieval:
For in-person requests:
- Identify the specific court where the case was filed
- Visit the clerk's office during regular business hours
- Complete a record request form providing case number or party names
- Present valid identification if required
- Pay applicable copy fees (currently $1.00 per page for most documents)
For remote requests:
- Access the Massachusetts Trial Court Electronic Case Access portal
- Register for an account if accessing non-public case information
- Search by case number, party name, or filing date
- Submit written requests for records not available online to the appropriate clerk's office
- Include a self-addressed stamped envelope for return delivery of paper copies
For attorney access:
- Register with the Massachusetts Attorney Portal
- Utilize enhanced search capabilities available to bar members
- Access electronic filing systems for case documents
Researchers may also contact the Hampden County Registry of Deeds for property-related court judgments and the Hampden County Probate Court for estate and family matters. Each court maintains specific procedures for record requests pursuant to the Uniform Rules on Public Access to Court Records.
How To Look Up Court Records in Hampden County Online?
Hampden County court records are accessible through several online platforms maintained by the Massachusetts judiciary. Each system provides different levels of access and information:
MassCourts Public Internet Portal
- Navigate to the Massachusetts Trial Court Electronic Case Access website
- Select the appropriate court department (Superior, District, Probate, etc.)
- Enter search criteria (case number, party name, attorney)
- Review available case information including docket entries and scheduled events
- Note that document images are generally not available through this public portal
eAccess for Attorneys
- Massachusetts-barred attorneys may register for the Attorney Portal
- Login credentials provide enhanced access to case documents
- Electronic filing capabilities are available for active cases
- Remote access to non-impounded documents is provided
Criminal Offender Record Information (CORI)
- Criminal history information is available through the Department of Criminal Justice Information Services
- Registration and fees apply for standard or open access CORI checks
- Results include Hampden County criminal case disposition information
Hampden County Registry of Deeds
- Property records including judgments affecting real estate are searchable via the Hampden County Registry of Deeds
- Search by name, property address, or document type
- Document images are available for viewing and printing
Users should note that online access is subject to certain limitations, with sensitive case types and impounded documents requiring in-person requests at the appropriate courthouse.
How To Search Hampden County Court Records for Free?
Massachusetts law guarantees the right to inspect public court records without charge, as established in M.G.L. c. 66, § 10(a), which states that "every person has a right of access to public records." Hampden County residents may utilize several no-cost options to view court records:
Free In-Person Inspection
- Visit any Hampden County courthouse during regular business hours
- Request to view specific case files at the clerk's office
- Examine documents on-site without charge (fees apply only for copies)
- Public access terminals are available for electronic record searches
Free Online Resources
- The MassCourts Public Internet Portal provides free access to basic case information
- Docket entries, party names, and scheduled hearings are viewable without registration
- Case type, filing date, and disposition information is freely accessible
- The Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court and Appeals Court Case Database offers free access to appellate decisions
Public Law Libraries
- The Hampden County Law Library provides free public access to legal research tools
- Computer terminals with enhanced court record access are available
- Reference librarians can assist with navigating court record systems
- Located at 50 State Street, Springfield, MA 01103
While inspection is free, fees may apply for printed copies (typically $1.00 per page) or certified documents (typically $5.00-$20.00 depending on document type). Electronic delivery options may be available at reduced or waived fees at the discretion of the clerk.
What's Included in a Hampden County Court Record?
Court records in Hampden County contain comprehensive documentation of legal proceedings, with contents varying by case type and court jurisdiction. A typical court record file includes:
Case Initiation Documents
- Complaints or petitions that commence civil actions
- Criminal complaints or indictments in criminal proceedings
- Summonses and service of process documentation
- Filing fee receipts and administrative processing forms
Procedural Documents
- Docket sheets listing chronological case events and filings
- Motions and supporting memoranda of law
- Responses and replies to motions
- Judicial orders and rulings on motions
- Notices of appearance by attorneys
- Scheduling orders and continuance requests
Evidentiary Materials
- Affidavits and sworn statements
- Exhibits admitted during hearings or trials
- Deposition transcripts (when filed with the court)
- Expert witness reports and credentials
- Documentary evidence referenced in proceedings
Disposition Documents
- Trial transcripts (when prepared)
- Jury instructions in applicable cases
- Verdict forms or judicial findings of fact
- Final judgments and decrees
- Sentencing information in criminal matters
- Appeal notices and related documentation
Post-Judgment Materials
- Satisfaction of judgment notices
- Execution documents for enforcement
- Probation reports in criminal cases
- Modification requests and resulting orders
- Contempt proceedings and compliance documentation
Certain sensitive information may be redacted pursuant to the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court Rule 1:24 on Personal Identifying Information, including social security numbers, financial account numbers, and certain personal data.
How Long Does Hampden County Keep Court Records?
Hampden County courts retain records according to schedules established by the Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court under authority granted by M.G.L. c. 221, § 27A. These retention periods vary by document type and case category:
Criminal Cases
- Felony case files: Permanent retention
- Misdemeanor case files: 20 years after case closure
- Motor vehicle infractions: 6 years after disposition
- Dismissed cases: 3 years after dismissal (unless sealed earlier)
- Sealed records: Maintained according to M.G.L. c. 276, § 100A
Civil Cases
- Cases with judgments affecting title to real property: Permanent retention
- General civil litigation: 20 years after final disposition
- Small claims matters: 10 years after judgment
- Restraining orders and harassment prevention orders: 10 years
Probate and Family Court
- Divorce decrees: Permanent retention
- Adoption records: Permanent retention (with access restrictions)
- Guardianship proceedings: Permanent retention
- Estate administration: Permanent retention
Juvenile Court
- Delinquency proceedings: Until subject reaches age 27 (unless extended)
- Child welfare cases: 25 years after final activity
- Youthful offender cases: Permanent retention
The Massachusetts Judicial Records Retention Schedule provides comprehensive guidance on retention periods. After the prescribed retention period expires, records may be archived with the Massachusetts State Archives, transferred to microfilm/digital format, or destroyed according to approved procedures. Historically significant cases may be preserved permanently regardless of standard retention schedules.
Types of Courts In Hampden County
Hampden County's judicial system encompasses multiple courts with distinct jurisdictions and authority. Each court maintains its own records and administrative procedures:
Hampden County Superior Court
50 State Street
Springfield, MA 01103
(413) 748-7760
Massachusetts Superior Court
Springfield District Court
50 State Street
Springfield, MA 01103
(413) 748-8600
Massachusetts District Court
Holyoke District Court
20 Court Plaza
Holyoke, MA 01040
(413) 538-6900
Massachusetts District Court
Palmer District Court
235 Sykes Street
Palmer, MA 01069
(413) 283-8916
Massachusetts District Court
Westfield District Court
224 Elm Street
Westfield, MA 01085
(413) 562-9369
Massachusetts District Court
Hampden County Juvenile Court
80 State Street
Springfield, MA 01103
(413) 748-7713
Massachusetts Juvenile Court
Hampden County Probate and Family Court
50 State Street
Springfield, MA 01103
(413) 748-7758
Massachusetts Probate and Family Court
Western Housing Court - Springfield Session
37 Elm Street
Springfield, MA 01103
(413) 748-7838
Massachusetts Housing Court
United States District Court - Springfield Division
300 State Street
Springfield, MA 01105
(413) 785-0015
United States District Court for the District of Massachusetts
The Massachusetts court system operates hierarchically, with the District Courts handling most initial proceedings, the Superior Court managing more serious matters, and the Massachusetts Appeals Court and Supreme Judicial Court providing appellate review. Federal matters are handled separately through the U.S. District Court system.
What Types of Cases Do Hampden County Courts Hear?
Hampden County's various courts adjudicate specific case types according to their statutory jurisdiction:
Hampden Superior Court
- Felony criminal cases with potential sentences exceeding 5 years
- Civil matters with claims exceeding $25,000
- Medical malpractice and complex litigation
- Appeals from administrative agency decisions
- Jury trials in both civil and criminal matters
- Equitable remedies including injunctions
District Courts
- Criminal misdemeanors and felonies with sentences up to 5 years
- Civil cases with claims up to $25,000
- Small claims matters (up to $7,000)
- Traffic violations and motor vehicle infractions
- Restraining orders and harassment prevention orders
- Mental health commitment proceedings
- Preliminary hearings in felony cases
Probate and Family Court
- Divorce and separation proceedings
- Child custody and support determinations
- Paternity establishment
- Adoption proceedings
- Guardianships and conservatorships
- Estate administration and will probate
- Name change petitions
Juvenile Court
- Delinquency proceedings for minors
- Youthful offender cases
- Child requiring assistance (CRA) petitions
- Care and protection proceedings
- Child abuse and neglect matters
Housing Court
- Landlord-tenant disputes
- Code enforcement actions
- Sanitary code violations
- Foreclosure cases related to residential property
- Small claims related to housing matters
Land Court
- Property title disputes
- Zoning appeals
- Tax foreclosures
- Registration of land titles
- Determination of property boundaries
U.S. District Court
- Federal criminal prosecutions
- Civil cases involving federal questions
- Diversity jurisdiction cases
- Bankruptcy proceedings
- Patent and copyright litigation
- Constitutional challenges
Case assignment follows jurisdictional rules established by Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 218, which defines court authority and territorial boundaries within the Commonwealth.
How To Find a Court Docket In Hampden County
Court dockets in Hampden County provide chronological listings of all actions taken in a case and are accessible through several methods:
Online Docket Access
- Visit the Massachusetts Trial Court Electronic Case Access portal
- Select the appropriate court department (Superior, District, etc.)
- Search using case number, party name, or attorney name
- Review docket entries showing filings, hearings, and judicial actions
- Note that some case types may have restricted online access
In-Person Docket Review
- Visit the clerk's office at the courthouse where the case is filed
- Request docket information at the public counter
- Provide case number or party names to facilitate search
- Review docket sheets on public access terminals or in paper form
- Request copies of specific docket entries if needed (fees may apply)
Docket Information by Mail or Phone
- Contact the appropriate clerk's office with case information
- Request docket sheet copies by mail with appropriate fees
- Limited docket information may be available by telephone
- Include case number whenever possible to expedite processing
Attorney Access to Dockets
- Massachusetts attorneys may access enhanced docket information through the Attorney Portal
- Electronic filing notifications provide real-time docket updates
- Case management tools allow tracking of multiple dockets
Docket information is updated by court personnel as case events occur, with timing varying by court department and case volume. The Massachusetts Trial Court Public Access Policy governs availability of docket information to ensure appropriate balance between transparency and privacy.
Which Courts in Hampden County Are Not Courts of Record?
In Massachusetts, "courts of record" are defined by M.G.L. c. 4, § 7 as courts whose proceedings are permanently recorded, with the authority to fine or imprison for contempt, and from which appeals may be taken. Conversely, courts not of record typically handle minor matters with simplified procedures and limited record-keeping requirements.
Within Hampden County, the following are not courts of record:
Small Claims Sessions
- Operate within District Courts but with informal procedures
- Handle civil disputes up to $7,000 ($10,000 in some consumer cases)
- Proceedings are summary in nature with simplified rules of evidence
- While basic case information is recorded, full transcripts are not maintained
- Appeals from small claims proceed as de novo hearings in District Court
Clerk-Magistrate Hearings
- Preliminary proceedings for criminal complaints
- Conducted by clerk-magistrates rather than judges
- Determine if probable cause exists to issue criminal complaints
- Informal process without verbatim transcripts
- Not considered formal court proceedings until complaints issue
Show Cause Hearings
- Initial hearings on potential criminal matters
- May result in diversion rather than formal charges
- Limited record-keeping if matter does not advance to formal complaint
- Not considered part of the permanent court record if resolved
Mediation Sessions
- Court-connected alternative dispute resolution
- Confidential proceedings not entered into court record
- Outcomes recorded only if resulting in formal settlement agreements
- Not conducted by judicial officers
While these proceedings occur within court facilities, they lack the formal record-keeping, procedural requirements, and appellate pathways that characterize courts of record. The distinction affects both the maintenance of records and the procedures for challenging decisions made in these forums.