Smith County Criminal Records
What Is Smith County Criminal Records
Smith County criminal records are official government documents that chronicle an individual's interactions with the criminal justice system within Smith County jurisdiction. These records serve as the official history of arrests, charges, court proceedings, and case dispositions maintained by various county agencies pursuant to Texas Code of Criminal Procedure § 60.01.
Criminal records in Smith County encompass several distinct categories:
- Arrest Records: Documentation of apprehensions by law enforcement agencies, including booking information, charges, and detention details
- Court Records: Official proceedings of criminal cases from arraignment through disposition
- Conviction Records: Final judgments resulting in guilty verdicts or pleas
- Incarceration Records: Documentation of jail or prison terms served
The distinction between arrest and conviction records is significant. Arrest records document only that an individual was taken into custody based on probable cause, while conviction records confirm legal guilt established through court proceedings. Similarly, felony records document more serious offenses potentially punishable by state prison terms, while misdemeanor records reflect lesser offenses typically punishable by county jail terms or fines.
Adult criminal records in Smith County are generally accessible to the public, whereas juvenile records (individuals under 17 at time of offense) are typically sealed pursuant to Texas Family Code § 58.003 and require court orders for access.
Several Smith County agencies maintain criminal records:
Smith County Sheriff's Office
227 N. Spring Avenue
Tyler, TX 75702
(903) 590-2661
Smith County Sheriff's Office
Smith County District Clerk
100 N. Broadway, Room 204
Tyler, TX 75702
(903) 590-1660
Smith County District Clerk
Smith County District Attorney
100 N. Broadway, 4th Floor
Tyler, TX 75702
(903) 590-1720
Smith County District Attorney
The Texas Department of Public Safety also maintains a centralized criminal history repository that includes Smith County records as part of its statewide database.
Are Criminal Records Public In Smith County
Criminal records in Smith County are generally public documents subject to disclosure under the Texas Public Information Act, Government Code Chapter 552. This statute establishes the presumption that government records, including criminal justice information, shall be available to the public unless specifically exempted by law.
According to Texas Government Code § 552.021: "Public information is available to the public at a minimum during the normal business hours of the governmental body." This provision establishes the fundamental right of public access to government records, including most criminal records maintained by Smith County agencies.
However, important exceptions and limitations apply to criminal record accessibility:
- Adult Conviction Records: Generally fully accessible to the public
- Adult Non-Conviction Records: Typically public but may have restricted access depending on case status
- Ongoing Investigations: Temporarily exempt from disclosure under § 552.108
- Juvenile Records: Confidential under Texas Family Code provisions
- Expunged/Sealed Records: Removed from public access by court order
- Deferred Adjudication: May be restricted after successful completion
The Smith County District Clerk serves as the custodian of court records, while the Sheriff's Office maintains arrest and jail records. Both agencies must comply with state public information laws while balancing privacy considerations and statutory exemptions.
Members of the public seeking criminal records must understand that while the presumption favors disclosure, certain information within otherwise public records may be redacted, including:
- Social Security numbers
- Driver's license numbers
- Certain victim information in sensitive cases
- Medical and mental health information
- Information that would compromise ongoing investigations
The Texas Attorney General has issued numerous opinions interpreting the Public Information Act as it applies to criminal records, generally supporting transparency while recognizing legitimate privacy and security concerns.
How To Look Up Criminal Records In Smith County in 2026
Smith County provides multiple methods for accessing criminal records. Members of the public may utilize the following procedures to obtain criminal history information:
In-Person Requests at the District Clerk's Office
The Smith County District Clerk maintains official court records for felony and misdemeanor cases.
- Visit the District Clerk's office during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM-4:30 PM)
- Complete a records request form specifying the individual's name and, if possible, date of birth
- Present valid government-issued photo identification
- Pay applicable search and copy fees ($5.00 search fee plus $1.00 per page for copies)
- Allow staff time to retrieve records (same-day service for simple requests)
Smith County District Clerk
100 N. Broadway, Room 204
Tyler, TX 75702
(903) 590-1660
Smith County District Clerk
Sheriff's Office Records Requests
For arrest records, booking photos, and jail information:
- Submit a completed Public Information Request Form
- Include specific information about the subject (full name, DOB)
- Indicate whether you need arrest records, incident reports, or jail records
- Submit in person, by mail, or via email to records@smith-county.com
- Pay applicable fees upon notification that records are ready
Smith County Sheriff's Office Records Division
227 N. Spring Avenue
Tyler, TX 75702
(903) 590-2661
Smith County Sheriff's Office
Written Requests by Mail
For those unable to appear in person, written requests may be submitted to either agency with:
- Subject's full legal name and date of birth
- Specific records being requested
- Requestor's contact information
- Check or money order for applicable fees
- Self-addressed stamped envelope for return delivery
Attorney of Record Access
Attorneys of record in criminal cases may access case files through:
- The Smith County District Clerk's office during business hours
- The Smith County eFileTexas portal with valid attorney credentials
- Presentation of Texas Bar card and case information
Pursuant to Texas Government Code § 552.221, the county must "promptly produce public information for inspection, duplication, or both" upon request. The standard timeframe for response is 10 business days, though complex requests may require additional time.
How To Find Criminal Records in Smith County Online?
Smith County offers several digital platforms for accessing criminal records electronically. These online resources provide convenient alternatives to in-person requests, though they vary in comprehensiveness and user accessibility.
Smith County Judicial Records Search
The primary online portal for court records access is the Smith County Judicial Records Search system:
- Navigate to the Smith County Judicial Records Search
- No registration is required for basic searches
- Search by name, case number, or filing date
- Results display case numbers, parties, filing dates, and case types
- View basic case information, charges, and disposition status
- Access to document images requires registration and payment of fees
This system contains records from both District Courts (felonies) and County Courts at Law (misdemeanors).
Texas Department of Public Safety Criminal History Search
For statewide criminal history that includes Smith County records:
- Visit the Texas DPS Crime Records Service
- Select either name-based or fingerprint-based search options
- Complete the required forms and provide payment
- Name-based searches cost $3.00 per name
- Results include arrest, prosecution, and disposition data reported to the state
Smith County Jail Inmate Search
For current incarceration status:
- Access the Smith County Jail Inmate Search
- Enter the individual's name or booking number
- View booking date, charges, bond amounts, and custody status
- Information is updated daily but limited to current inmates
Texas Judicial Branch - Public Court Case Search
The statewide court case search includes Smith County cases:
- Visit Texas Judicial Branch Search
- Select "Smith County" from the jurisdiction dropdown
- Enter search criteria (name, case number)
- View case information, hearings, and party information
- Document images may not be available for all cases
Online Access Limitations
Users should be aware of certain limitations when searching Smith County criminal records online:
- Records prior to 1990 may not be digitized and require in-person research
- Sealed, expunged, or juvenile records are not accessible online
- Document images often require fees for viewing
- Some case details may be redacted in sensitive cases
- Technical issues may occasionally affect system availability
The Smith County Information Technology Department maintains these online systems pursuant to Texas Government Code § 552.272, which authorizes electronic access to public information.
Can You Search Smith County Criminal Records for Free?
Smith County provides several no-cost options for accessing criminal records, though free access typically offers more limited information than fee-based services. The Texas Public Information Act establishes the right to inspect public records without charge, though reproduction costs may apply.
Free In-Person Inspection
Pursuant to Texas Government Code § 552.221, members of the public may inspect criminal records without charge at:
Smith County District Clerk's Office
100 N. Broadway, Room 204
Tyler, TX 75702
(903) 590-1660
Smith County District Clerk
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM-4:30 PM
The inspection process includes:
- Completing a records request form
- Presenting valid identification
- Viewing records in designated areas
- No charge for visual inspection
- Fees apply only if copies are requested
Free Online Resources
Smith County offers several no-cost digital resources:
-
Smith County Judicial Records Search - Basic case information is available without charge at Smith County Judicial Records. The system provides:
- Case numbers and filing dates
- Party names and attorney information
- Charge information and case status
- Hearing dates and times
- Document indexes (viewing documents requires payment)
-
Smith County Jail Inmate Search - Current inmate information is freely accessible at Smith County Jail Inmate Search, including:
- Current booking status
- Charges
- Bond amounts
- Next court dates
-
Smith County Court Dockets - Daily court schedules are published at no cost on the Smith County Courts website, showing:
- Cases scheduled for hearing
- Assigned courts
- Hearing types and times
- Judge assignments
Public Access Terminals
Free computer terminals are available for public use at:
Smith County Law Library
100 N. Broadway, 1st Floor
Tyler, TX 75702
(903) 590-1634
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM-5:00 PM
These terminals provide access to:
- Court case management systems
- Judicial records database
- Legal research resources
- Document indexes
While inspection is free, standard fees apply for printing or document reproduction from these terminals.
The Smith County Commissioners Court establishes fee schedules for records pursuant to Texas Local Government Code § 118.011, which authorizes reasonable charges for reproduction services while maintaining the right to free inspection.
What's Included in a Smith County Criminal Record?
Smith County criminal records contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's involvement with the local criminal justice system. These records typically include several categories of information:
Identifying Information
- Full legal name and known aliases
- Date of birth and age
- Physical description (height, weight, eye/hair color)
- Booking photograph ("mugshot")
- Last known address
- State Identification Number (SID)
- FBI number (if applicable)
- Fingerprint classification
Arrest Information
- Date and time of arrest
- Arresting agency and officer
- Location of arrest
- Booking number and facility
- Charges filed at arrest
- Probable cause statements
- Bail or bond information
- Detention facility assignment
- Release date and conditions (if applicable)
Court Case Information
- Case number and court assignment
- Filing date and jurisdiction
- Formal charges filed by prosecutor
- Statutory citations and offense classifications
- Felony or misdemeanor designation
- Plea information
- Attorney of record
- Judge assignment
- Court appearances and hearing dates
- Motions filed and rulings
- Evidence documentation
- Witness information (may be redacted)
Disposition and Sentencing
- Verdict or case outcome
- Conviction date (if applicable)
- Dismissal information (if applicable)
- Sentencing details:
- Incarceration terms and location
- Probation conditions and duration
- Fines and court costs
- Restitution orders
- Community service requirements
- Treatment program mandates
- Post-conviction modifications
- Appeal information
- Probation/parole status and violations
Additional Information
- Active warrants
- Protective orders
- Sex offender registration requirements
- DWI/DUI history
- Traffic violations connected to criminal cases
- Pending charges in other jurisdictions
- Prior criminal history references
- Probation/parole officer assignments
- Risk assessment scores
- Victim impact statements (may be redacted)
The comprehensiveness of records varies based on case complexity and age. Recent records typically contain more detailed digital information, while older records may be more limited in scope. Records are maintained according to the Texas State Library and Archives Commission retention schedules for local government records.
Certain sensitive information may be redacted from public versions of criminal records, including:
- Social Security numbers
- Driver's license numbers
- Medical information
- Information about minor victims
- Confidential informant details
- Information sealed by court order
How Long Does Smith County Keep Criminal Records?
Smith County maintains criminal records according to retention schedules established by the Texas State Library and Archives Commission under Local Government Code § 203.041. These schedules mandate minimum retention periods, though many records are kept permanently due to their historical and legal significance.
Felony Case Records
- Case files for capital felonies: Permanent retention
- Non-capital felony case files: 25 years after final judgment
- Felony docket books: Permanent retention
- Grand jury indictments: Permanent retention
- Felony evidence documentation: Until final judgment plus 3 years
- Felony exhibits: Until all appeals exhausted plus 6 months
Misdemeanor Case Records
- Misdemeanor case files: 5 years after final judgment
- Class C misdemeanor case files: 2 years after final judgment
- Misdemeanor docket books: 20 years
- Misdemeanor evidence: Until final judgment plus 6 months
Arrest and Booking Records
- Arrest reports: 5 years
- Booking records: 5 years
- Jail records: 5 years after release
- Fingerprint cards: 75 years
- Mugshot photographs: 75 years
Court Records
- Court minutes: Permanent retention
- Judgment records: Permanent retention
- Court dockets: 5 years
- Court reporter notes: 3 years after judgment
- Court recordings: 3 years after judgment
Specialized Records
- Sex offender registration records: 75 years
- Protective order records: 20 years
- Mental health commitment records: Permanent retention
- Juvenile records: Until individual reaches age 23 (unless sealed earlier)
- Expunged records: Destroyed upon court order
- Probation records: 10 years after termination of probation
The Smith County Records Management Department oversees compliance with these retention schedules. While minimum retention periods are established by law, many records are maintained beyond these periods, particularly as Smith County has digitized many of its records systems.
Records may be transferred to microfilm or electronic formats for long-term storage while maintaining their legal validity. The Texas State Library and Archives Commission conducts periodic audits to ensure compliance with retention requirements.
Individuals seeking older records should note that while the information may still exist, retrieval times may be longer for archived materials. Records that have reached their retention period may have been lawfully destroyed in accordance with Texas Administrative Code Title 13, Chapter 7.
Lookup Criminal Records in Smith County
What Is Smith County Criminal Records
Smith County criminal records are official government documents that chronicle an individual's interactions with the criminal justice system within Smith County jurisdiction. These records serve as the official history of arrests, charges, court proceedings, and case dispositions maintained by various county agencies pursuant to Texas Code of Criminal Procedure § 60.01.
Criminal records in Smith County encompass several distinct categories:
- Arrest Records: Documentation of apprehensions by law enforcement agencies, including booking information, charges, and detention details
- Court Records: Official proceedings of criminal cases from arraignment through disposition
- Conviction Records: Final judgments resulting in guilty verdicts or pleas
- Incarceration Records: Documentation of jail or prison terms served
The distinction between arrest and conviction records is significant. Arrest records document only that an individual was taken into custody based on probable cause, while conviction records confirm legal guilt established through court proceedings. Similarly, felony records document more serious offenses potentially punishable by state prison terms, while misdemeanor records reflect lesser offenses typically punishable by county jail terms or fines.
Adult criminal records in Smith County are generally accessible to the public, whereas juvenile records (individuals under 17 at time of offense) are typically sealed pursuant to Texas Family Code § 58.003 and require court orders for access.
Several Smith County agencies maintain criminal records:
Smith County Sheriff's Office
227 N. Spring Avenue
Tyler, TX 75702
(903) 590-2661
Smith County Sheriff's Office
Smith County District Clerk
100 N. Broadway, Room 204
Tyler, TX 75702
(903) 590-1660
Smith County District Clerk
Smith County District Attorney
100 N. Broadway, 4th Floor
Tyler, TX 75702
(903) 590-1720
Smith County District Attorney
The Texas Department of Public Safety also maintains a centralized criminal history repository that includes Smith County records as part of its statewide database.
Are Criminal Records Public In Smith County
Criminal records in Smith County are generally public documents subject to disclosure under the Texas Public Information Act, Government Code Chapter 552. This statute establishes the presumption that government records, including criminal justice information, shall be available to the public unless specifically exempted by law.
According to Texas Government Code § 552.021: "Public information is available to the public at a minimum during the normal business hours of the governmental body." This provision establishes the fundamental right of public access to government records, including most criminal records maintained by Smith County agencies.
However, important exceptions and limitations apply to criminal record accessibility:
- Adult Conviction Records: Generally fully accessible to the public
- Adult Non-Conviction Records: Typically public but may have restricted access depending on case status
- Ongoing Investigations: Temporarily exempt from disclosure under § 552.108
- Juvenile Records: Confidential under Texas Family Code provisions
- Expunged/Sealed Records: Removed from public access by court order
- Deferred Adjudication: May be restricted after successful completion
The Smith County District Clerk serves as the custodian of court records, while the Sheriff's Office maintains arrest and jail records. Both agencies must comply with state public information laws while balancing privacy considerations and statutory exemptions.
Members of the public seeking criminal records must understand that while the presumption favors disclosure, certain information within otherwise public records may be redacted, including:
- Social Security numbers
- Driver's license numbers
- Certain victim information in sensitive cases
- Medical and mental health information
- Information that would compromise ongoing investigations
The Texas Attorney General has issued numerous opinions interpreting the Public Information Act as it applies to criminal records, generally supporting transparency while recognizing legitimate privacy and security concerns.
How To Look Up Criminal Records In Smith County in 2026
Smith County provides multiple methods for accessing criminal records. Members of the public may utilize the following procedures to obtain criminal history information:
In-Person Requests at the District Clerk's Office
The Smith County District Clerk maintains official court records for felony and misdemeanor cases.
- Visit the District Clerk's office during regular business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM-4:30 PM)
- Complete a records request form specifying the individual's name and, if possible, date of birth
- Present valid government-issued photo identification
- Pay applicable search and copy fees ($5.00 search fee plus $1.00 per page for copies)
- Allow staff time to retrieve records (same-day service for simple requests)
Smith County District Clerk
100 N. Broadway, Room 204
Tyler, TX 75702
(903) 590-1660
Smith County District Clerk
Sheriff's Office Records Requests
For arrest records, booking photos, and jail information:
- Submit a completed Public Information Request Form
- Include specific information about the subject (full name, DOB)
- Indicate whether you need arrest records, incident reports, or jail records
- Submit in person, by mail, or via email to records@smith-county.com
- Pay applicable fees upon notification that records are ready
Smith County Sheriff's Office Records Division
227 N. Spring Avenue
Tyler, TX 75702
(903) 590-2661
Smith County Sheriff's Office
Written Requests by Mail
For those unable to appear in person, written requests may be submitted to either agency with:
- Subject's full legal name and date of birth
- Specific records being requested
- Requestor's contact information
- Check or money order for applicable fees
- Self-addressed stamped envelope for return delivery
Attorney of Record Access
Attorneys of record in criminal cases may access case files through:
- The Smith County District Clerk's office during business hours
- The Smith County eFileTexas portal with valid attorney credentials
- Presentation of Texas Bar card and case information
Pursuant to Texas Government Code § 552.221, the county must "promptly produce public information for inspection, duplication, or both" upon request. The standard timeframe for response is 10 business days, though complex requests may require additional time.
How To Find Criminal Records in Smith County Online?
Smith County offers several digital platforms for accessing criminal records electronically. These online resources provide convenient alternatives to in-person requests, though they vary in comprehensiveness and user accessibility.
Smith County Judicial Records Search
The primary online portal for court records access is the Smith County Judicial Records Search system:
- Navigate to the Smith County Judicial Records Search
- No registration is required for basic searches
- Search by name, case number, or filing date
- Results display case numbers, parties, filing dates, and case types
- View basic case information, charges, and disposition status
- Access to document images requires registration and payment of fees
This system contains records from both District Courts (felonies) and County Courts at Law (misdemeanors).
Texas Department of Public Safety Criminal History Search
For statewide criminal history that includes Smith County records:
- Visit the Texas DPS Crime Records Service
- Select either name-based or fingerprint-based search options
- Complete the required forms and provide payment
- Name-based searches cost $3.00 per name
- Results include arrest, prosecution, and disposition data reported to the state
Smith County Jail Inmate Search
For current incarceration status:
- Access the Smith County Jail Inmate Search
- Enter the individual's name or booking number
- View booking date, charges, bond amounts, and custody status
- Information is updated daily but limited to current inmates
Texas Judicial Branch - Public Court Case Search
The statewide court case search includes Smith County cases:
- Visit Texas Judicial Branch Search
- Select "Smith County" from the jurisdiction dropdown
- Enter search criteria (name, case number)
- View case information, hearings, and party information
- Document images may not be available for all cases
Online Access Limitations
Users should be aware of certain limitations when searching Smith County criminal records online:
- Records prior to 1990 may not be digitized and require in-person research
- Sealed, expunged, or juvenile records are not accessible online
- Document images often require fees for viewing
- Some case details may be redacted in sensitive cases
- Technical issues may occasionally affect system availability
The Smith County Information Technology Department maintains these online systems pursuant to Texas Government Code § 552.272, which authorizes electronic access to public information.
Can You Search Smith County Criminal Records for Free?
Smith County provides several no-cost options for accessing criminal records, though free access typically offers more limited information than fee-based services. The Texas Public Information Act establishes the right to inspect public records without charge, though reproduction costs may apply.
Free In-Person Inspection
Pursuant to Texas Government Code § 552.221, members of the public may inspect criminal records without charge at:
Smith County District Clerk's Office
100 N. Broadway, Room 204
Tyler, TX 75702
(903) 590-1660
Smith County District Clerk
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM-4:30 PM
The inspection process includes:
- Completing a records request form
- Presenting valid identification
- Viewing records in designated areas
- No charge for visual inspection
- Fees apply only if copies are requested
Free Online Resources
Smith County offers several no-cost digital resources:
-
Smith County Judicial Records Search - Basic case information is available without charge at Smith County Judicial Records. The system provides:
- Case numbers and filing dates
- Party names and attorney information
- Charge information and case status
- Hearing dates and times
- Document indexes (viewing documents requires payment)
-
Smith County Jail Inmate Search - Current inmate information is freely accessible at Smith County Jail Inmate Search, including:
- Current booking status
- Charges
- Bond amounts
- Next court dates
-
Smith County Court Dockets - Daily court schedules are published at no cost on the Smith County Courts website, showing:
- Cases scheduled for hearing
- Assigned courts
- Hearing types and times
- Judge assignments
Public Access Terminals
Free computer terminals are available for public use at:
Smith County Law Library
100 N. Broadway, 1st Floor
Tyler, TX 75702
(903) 590-1634
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM-5:00 PM
These terminals provide access to:
- Court case management systems
- Judicial records database
- Legal research resources
- Document indexes
While inspection is free, standard fees apply for printing or document reproduction from these terminals.
The Smith County Commissioners Court establishes fee schedules for records pursuant to Texas Local Government Code § 118.011, which authorizes reasonable charges for reproduction services while maintaining the right to free inspection.
What's Included in a Smith County Criminal Record?
Smith County criminal records contain comprehensive documentation of an individual's involvement with the local criminal justice system. These records typically include several categories of information:
Identifying Information
- Full legal name and known aliases
- Date of birth and age
- Physical description (height, weight, eye/hair color)
- Booking photograph ("mugshot")
- Last known address
- State Identification Number (SID)
- FBI number (if applicable)
- Fingerprint classification
Arrest Information
- Date and time of arrest
- Arresting agency and officer
- Location of arrest
- Booking number and facility
- Charges filed at arrest
- Probable cause statements
- Bail or bond information
- Detention facility assignment
- Release date and conditions (if applicable)
Court Case Information
- Case number and court assignment
- Filing date and jurisdiction
- Formal charges filed by prosecutor
- Statutory citations and offense classifications
- Felony or misdemeanor designation
- Plea information
- Attorney of record
- Judge assignment
- Court appearances and hearing dates
- Motions filed and rulings
- Evidence documentation
- Witness information (may be redacted)
Disposition and Sentencing
- Verdict or case outcome
- Conviction date (if applicable)
- Dismissal information (if applicable)
- Sentencing details:
- Incarceration terms and location
- Probation conditions and duration
- Fines and court costs
- Restitution orders
- Community service requirements
- Treatment program mandates
- Post-conviction modifications
- Appeal information
- Probation/parole status and violations
Additional Information
- Active warrants
- Protective orders
- Sex offender registration requirements
- DWI/DUI history
- Traffic violations connected to criminal cases
- Pending charges in other jurisdictions
- Prior criminal history references
- Probation/parole officer assignments
- Risk assessment scores
- Victim impact statements (may be redacted)
The comprehensiveness of records varies based on case complexity and age. Recent records typically contain more detailed digital information, while older records may be more limited in scope. Records are maintained according to the Texas State Library and Archives Commission retention schedules for local government records.
Certain sensitive information may be redacted from public versions of criminal records, including:
- Social Security numbers
- Driver's license numbers
- Medical information
- Information about minor victims
- Confidential informant details
- Information sealed by court order
How Long Does Smith County Keep Criminal Records?
Smith County maintains criminal records according to retention schedules established by the Texas State Library and Archives Commission under Local Government Code § 203.041. These schedules mandate minimum retention periods, though many records are kept permanently due to their historical and legal significance.
Felony Case Records
- Case files for capital felonies: Permanent retention
- Non-capital felony case files: 25 years after final judgment
- Felony docket books: