Courthouse

This guide explains how the Baldwin County AL Courthouse system works—what happens at the main courthouse in Bay Minette and the satellite courthouses, how the Circuit and District Courts divide cases, what to expect for jury service, filing small claims or domestic relations matters, handling traffic tickets, accessing records through the Circuit Clerk, and how related services like passports and absentee voting are managed. It’s written for everyday residents and visitors who need clear, practical direction before they step inside a courthouse or interact with court staff.

Understand the Baldwin County courthouse structure before you go

Baldwin County’s state trial courts make up Alabama’s Twenty-Eighth Judicial Circuit. The system centers on a primary courthouse in Bay Minette, supported by satellite courthouses in Fairhope and Foley. Within that system, the Circuit Court functions as Alabama’s trial court of general jurisdiction, while the District Court handles misdemeanors, small claims, juvenile matters, and preliminary felony hearings. The Circuit Clerk’s Office serves as the record-keeping and business hub for both courts and is your frontline contact for filings, payments, and case logistics.

If you’re preparing for a court date or need to file paperwork, begin by reviewing the information posted by the Circuit Clerk—you’ll find office responsibilities, how court records are maintained, and where to locate forms and fee schedules on the official Circuit Clerk page (see the Circuit Clerk, Brenda Ganey page for duties and services). The clerk’s team scans and images records to make them available to the bench, staff, and the public, and manages jury administration, subpoenas, and notices of hearings. Start with the Circuit Clerk page to confirm business hours, division contacts, and forms so you can arrive prepared.
Visit the Circuit Clerk page: Circuit Clerk, Brenda Ganey.

Grasp Circuit Court jurisdiction and when your case belongs there

The Circuit Court hears the broadest range of cases in Baldwin County. Under Alabama law, it functions as the trial court of general jurisdiction, which means:

Civil lawsuits where the amount in controversy exceeds $20,000 are filed and heard in Circuit Court.

Circuit Court also has concurrent jurisdiction with District Court in civil cases over $6,000 up to $20,000 (exclusive of interest and costs).

Felony criminal prosecutions are tried in the Circuit Court.

The court handles family court matters, which frequently include divorce, custody, and related domestic relations proceedings.

Circuit Court exercises appellate jurisdiction for appeals from the District Court, Probate Court, municipal courts in Baldwin County, and certain administrative or municipal boards.

If you have a high-value civil dispute, a felony charge, or an appeal from a lower court, you’ll most likely be interacting with the Circuit Court division and its judges. To understand the bench and calendar, consult the official Circuit Court overview where the judges’ bios and docket links are organized in one place, along with information about civil, criminal, and family divisions.
Review the official overview at: Circuit Court.

Know what District Court handles so you file in the right place

The District Court provides a defined set of first-instance and preliminary jurisdictions that are essential to daily court operations:

Criminal misdemeanors are heard in District Court.

Preliminary hearings in felony prosecutions occur here, and the court may receive guilty pleas in felony cases that are not punishable by death.

District judges have concurrent jurisdiction with Circuit Court for juvenile matters and civil actions up to $20,000.

District Court has exclusive jurisdiction over civil actions where the amount in controversy does not exceed $6,000—these are the cases commonly known as small claims.

If your matter is a misdemeanor, a limited-value civil dispute, a juvenile case, or a preliminary step in a felony prosecution, District Court is likely your venue. Confirm division details, bench assignments, and docket notes on the official District Court page before filing or appearing.
Check the division specifics at: District Court.

Use the Circuit Clerk as your operational guide through the courthouse

The Circuit Clerk’s Office is the courthouse’s administrative engine. It receives filings for civil, criminal, domestic relations, child support, traffic, juvenile, and warrants; images and indexes those records; and manages fees, costs, and distributions. On a routine day, the clerk’s staff will:

Receive pleadings and stamp filing dates.
Collect fines, fees, and costs assessed in cases.
Issue subpoenas and notices of hearings.
Coordinate jury summonses, orientation materials, and attendance verification.
Provide access to record searches consistent with Alabama court rules.

Because many processes depend on the clerk’s timelines, it’s smart to use the Circuit Clerk page to validate filing windows, access forms applicable to your division, and understand any electronic record access options available through the state judiciary. You’ll also find a reminder that only licensed attorneys can provide legal advice; clerk staff can explain how to file, but they cannot advise you on what to file or what to say in your pleadings.
Start with: Circuit Clerk, Brenda Ganey.

Prepare for jury service the practical way

If you’ve been summoned for jury duty in Baldwin County, the courts provide plain-language guidance to help you arrive on time, pass security, and understand your role. The jury information hub explains how to read your summons, where to go, what to bring (and what to leave at home), and how the selection process unfolds. It also outlines expectations for punctuality, conduct, and the sequence of events in a typical trial day. Many jurors find it helpful to read through responsibilities and prohibited items so they can clear security quickly and avoid delays.
Plan your service with: Welcome to Jury Duty.

File and argue small claims like a pro

For civil disputes up to $6,000 (exclusive of interest and costs), small claims offers a streamlined route. Because District Court has exclusive jurisdiction over small claims, you’ll follow that division’s filing requirements. The small claims section of the Baldwin County courts website walks through case types, filing fees, service of process basics, and how hearing dates are assigned. It’s especially useful for self-represented parties who need to understand the difference between evidence and argument, and how to bring witnesses or documents to the hearing.
Work through the filing steps at: Small Claims Court.

Navigate domestic relations matters with clarity and care

Domestic relations—including divorce, custody, visitation, support, and related family orders—are handled within the trial courts and subject to local scheduling practices. The domestic relations section of the official site explains where to file, what types of forms apply, and how cases progress through temporary orders, mediation (if applicable), and final hearings. Because family cases often involve sensitive timelines, it’s wise to confirm procedural steps and any local standing orders before filing. The dedicated page consolidates that information so you can prepare a complete, timely submission.
Begin with: Domestic Relations.

Handle traffic tickets and court costs without missteps

If you’ve received a traffic citation issued in Baldwin County, the Traffic Court page is your starting point. It outlines how to determine whether your ticket is payable without a court appearance, what to do if your citation requires you to appear, and how costs are assessed. When in doubt, verify your case status and deadlines; missing a payment or court date can trigger additional costs or license consequences.
Read the process at: Traffic Court.

Court costs vary by division (civil, district criminal, circuit criminal). Before you file, it’s prudent to review the current schedule to estimate initial fees, understand what costs the prevailing party may recover, and plan for service or subpoena expenses. If your case is civil, the court’s website organizes the cost information by division so you can find the right schedule quickly—double-check totals just before filing to avoid surprises when the clerk assesses fees at the counter.
Review fees on: Traffic Court (for traffic) and the division-specific cost pages available from the site menus.

Know when and how to request court records

Most trial court information is indexed and imaged by the Circuit Clerk for use by judges, staff, and the public under Alabama rules. If you need certified copies, docket sheets, or to review a case file, the clerk’s site explains what can be provided, how to request it, and any applicable fees. A general record-request form is available through the clerk’s office channels. When requesting records, include case numbers, party names, and the specific documents you need to reduce processing time and avoid multiple trips.

Because Alabama law restricts legal advice to licensed attorneys, clerk staff can answer questions about process (how to submit a request) but not strategy (which records you should request or why). If your matter is sensitive or involves sealed records, plan ahead—bring identification, case details, and any court order authorizing access.

Plan for passports at the courthouse

Baldwin County’s clerk of court acts as a passport acceptance location. The passport section of the court’s website provides acceptance hours, a list of required identification and photos, and a notice of current passport fees. Because passport rules change from time to time, it’s best to recheck the acceptance page shortly before you visit so you have the most current fee and form information, and to verify whether appointments are required or walk-in service is available.
Review procedures under: Passport Information.

Take care of absentee voting responsibilities through the clerk’s office

In Baldwin County, the Clerk of Court serves as the Absentee Election Manager, which means the clerk’s office provides details on eligibility, application methods, submission deadlines, and identification requirements. The absentee section consolidates the steps you must follow and points to the correct application so your ballot is requested and returned on time. Always confirm deadlines early—absentee timelines are firm and enforced.
Start your application on: Absentee Voting Information.

Understand appeals and how they move through Baldwin County courts

If you receive a judgment in District Court and wish to seek recourse, the Circuit Court has appellate jurisdiction over cases appealed from District Court, as well as appeals from Probate Court, municipal courts in Baldwin County, and certain boards. Filing a notice of appeal within the applicable time limit is critical; the clock typically starts when judgment is entered. The Circuit Clerk’s office can explain where and how to file your notice and any accompanying bonds or fees. Use the Circuit Court overview to orient yourself to the judges who hear appeals and the scheduling approach for appellate matters.

Learn who’s on the bench and how dockets are organized

The court websites present the judicial officers serving Baldwin County with dedicated pages that include biography and contact information appropriate for chambers. For case-specific scheduling, the docket calendars for each judge will help you see when your matter is likely to be called and how far in advance you need to submit proposed orders or exhibits. Because docket structures and trial terms are updated periodically, check the Circuit Court and District Court pages close to your hearing date to make sure you have the newest calendar notes and any division-specific standing orders.

Bring only what you need and move smoothly through courthouse security

All Baldwin County courthouse locations enforce security screening. To avoid delays, review the courthouse’s list of prohibited items and read the jury duty pages if you’re appearing as a juror. Leave unnecessary electronics and sharp objects at home or in your vehicle. Arrive early to find parking, navigate security, and locate your courtroom—especially at the Bay Minette main courthouse, where multiple divisions may be in session at the same time.

Coordinate with Probate Court when your matter belongs there

Some legal issues—such as estates, guardianships, conservatorships, name changes, and certain licenses—are handled by Probate Court rather than Circuit or District Court. Baldwin County maintains a dedicated Probate portal with information on filings, forms, and in-person services. If your matter is primarily probate-related, start with the county government’s page to determine the correct venue and required documentation before you visit a courthouse counter.
Explore procedures on: Baldwin County Probate.

Practical filing tips for first-timers at the Baldwin County AL Courthouse

Match your venue to your claim. If your civil claim value is $6,000 or less, you’re likely in small claims (District Court). For $6,000.01 to $20,000, jurisdiction may be concurrent; above $20,000, you file in Circuit Court. When in doubt, read the Circuit Court and District Court pages and confirm at the clerk’s counter.

Double-check forms and fees. Use the Circuit Clerk and division pages to download the correct forms. Bring multiple copies if you’re filing for service on multiple defendants. Verify fees immediately before filing because fee schedules can change.

Mind deadlines. For criminal matters and appeals, deadlines are strict. File notices and motions within the prescribed time. Ask the clerk about how to file (hours, counters, or drop-box policies), not what you should file.

Organize your evidence. For small claims and domestic relations hearings, bring organized exhibits in labeled folders. If you plan to present photos or records, print them and bring extra copies for the judge and opposing party, consistent with court rules.

Arrive early. Parking, security screening, and courtroom logistics take time. If you are scheduled in the morning, build in extra minutes for traffic between Bay Minette and other parts of the county.

Respect courtroom etiquette. Dress neatly, silence devices, and address the court and staff respectfully. Read the jury and trial participants resources on the court site if you’re unsure how proceedings flow.

Satellite courthouses: how Fairhope and Foley fit into the picture

Baldwin County operates two satellite courthouses—in Fairhope and Foley—to make basic courthouse services more accessible for residents who live far from Bay Minette. These locations help with select filings, payments, and certain in-person services authorized by the clerk. Not every division handles full hearings at satellite counters, so it’s smart to confirm which services are offered at each site before driving there. The main courthouse in Bay Minette remains the central venue for trials and most hearings, but many residents conveniently handle paperwork or clerk interactions at the satellites.

When you plan a trip to a satellite site, treat it like a standard courthouse visit—bring identification, case numbers, and your paperwork already filled out. If you’re submitting forms that must be notarized, ask in advance whether a notary is available at that location or whether you should bring notarized documents to the counter.

Child support and domestic-relations payments: follow the division’s instructions

Baldwin County’s court website provides a dedicated Child Support section accessible from the main menu. While payment collection and disbursement workflows can involve state systems, your starting point is the local information consolidated by the clerk and judges. If your order references payment methods, deadlines, or enforcement steps, follow those instructions precisely. If you’re unsure whether to pay at a counter, online through a state portal, or by mail, verify those details on the court’s Domestic Relations and Child Support pages and with the clerk’s office to avoid misdirected payments.

Traffic, criminal, and civil calendars: watch the calendar as your date approaches

Dockets can shift as cases settle or proceed. As your hearing date nears, recheck the Circuit Court or District Court pages for calendar changes. If your case is set for a specific judge’s docket, look for that judge’s schedule and any filing cutoffs for motions, exhibit lists, or proposed orders. If you’re a juror, reconfirm reporting instructions through the jury information hub; changes in trial settings can affect when jurors must appear.

What to expect at your first appearance in District or Circuit Court

Criminal first appearances typically include confirmation of identity, advisement of rights, appointment of counsel when appropriate, and setting of bond conditions. Preliminary hearings focus on probable cause and may be short; be early and ready.

Civil docket calls often involve scheduling, deadlines for amendments or discovery, and status checks. If you’re self-represented, prepare a concise explanation of the issues and be ready to propose realistic timelines.

Family court matters may require temporary orders. Bring financial disclosures and any required parenting plans in the format the court expects—check the Domestic Relations resources for Baldwin County before the hearing so your paperwork is complete.

Practical security and decorum reminders that save time

Identification matters. Bring a government-issued photo ID.

Travel light. Fewer bags mean faster security screening.

Phones and devices. Silence them; some courtrooms restrict use entirely.

Respect space. Stand where directed, speak clearly when addressed, and never approach the bench until told to do so.

Documents. Keep pleadings, orders, and exhibits organized by hearing date so you’re not searching at the podium.

Courthouse offices and locations (addresses and phone numbers)

Baldwin County Circuit Clerk — 312 Courthouse Square, Suite 10, Bay Minette, AL 36507 — (251) 937-0280

Fairhope Satellite Courthouse — 1100 Fairhope Avenue, Fairhope, AL 36532 — (251) 928-3002

Foley Satellite Courthouse — 201 East Section Avenue, Foley, AL 36535 — (251) 943-5061

Baldwin County Courthouse FAQs

Which court handles my kind of case in Baldwin County?

Start by matching your issue to the right trial court. High-value civil disputes, felony prosecutions, and family matters are heard in the Circuit Court; you can review the jurisdiction scope and judge dockets on the official Circuit Court page. Misdemeanors, preliminary felony hearings, juvenile matters (concurrent with Circuit), and civil cases up to $20,000—including “small claims” under $6,000—begin in District Court; check the judges and docket info on District Court to confirm venue before you file.

How do jury summons, reporting, and security work?

If you’re summoned, read the county’s plain-language guidance before you travel. You’ll find what your summons means, day-of reporting expectations, and lists of prohibited items at security. The county posts step-by-step answers—including responsibilities and the sequence of a trial day—under Juror FAQ so you can plan arrival time, paperwork, and what to bring (and leave behind).

What does the Circuit Clerk’s Office actually handle for me?

The Circuit Clerk is the courthouse record-keeper and business office for both trial courts—receiving pleadings, issuing subpoenas and notices, managing jury administration, and collecting/disbursing court funds. Records are imaged for access consistent with statewide rules, and the office provides a request process for copies and certifications. For duties, online forms, and the records-request link, use Circuit Clerk, Brenda Ganey.

Where do I find small claims instructions and forms?

For civil disputes up to $6,000 (exclusive of interest and costs), Baldwin County’s small claims section explains eligible case types, filing steps, service basics, and hearing logistics. Self-represented parties can review forms and practical timelines directly on Small Claims Court to prepare exhibits, witnesses, and proof of service the way local judges expect.

Can I preview fees, calendars, and judge information before I go?

Yes—Baldwin County posts division-specific cost schedules and publishes annual Circuit Court calendars alongside each judge’s docket notes. Use the Circuit Court page to access calendars and judge bios, and rely on the clerk’s site for the latest filing fees and cost breakdowns tied to your division and case type.