Pontotoc County
Pontotoc County was established in 1836. It is located in the northeastern region of Mississippi. The county's name derives from a Chickasaw word meaning "land of hanging grapes," reflecting its rich Native American history. As of 2022, the county has a population of approximately 31,202 residents occupying its land area of 497.8 square miles. Its county seat, Pontotoc, is known for its role in the development of the Natchez Trace Parkway.
Pontotoc County is part of Mississippi's 1st Judicial District and operates a well-structured court system to address various legal needs. The courts serving Pontotoc County comprise the Circuit, County, Justice, Chancery, Youth, and Municipal Courts. The Circuit Court is the county's highest trial court and has jurisdiction over felony cases, civil claims involving more than $200,000, and appeals from lower courts. It also handles real estate disputes. The County Court handles misdemeanor criminal cases, preliminary felony hearings, civil cases involving claims not exceeding $200,000, eminent domain, and landlord-tenant disputes. The Justice Court presides over small claims cases up to $3,500, traffic violations, certain criminal cases punishable by fines or short-term jail sentences, and petty misdemeanors. It may also conduct bond and preliminary hearings for felony charges. On the other hand, the Chancery Court addresses probate matters such as wills, estates, guardianships, and conservatorships as well as family law issues including divorce, child custody, and alimony. It also oversees cases involving land disputes and mental health commitments. Meanwhile, the Youth Court addresses juvenile delinquency, child abuse or neglect, and other cases affecting minors. The Municipal Courts handle cases involving violations of city ordinances, misdemeanors, and traffic offenses that occur within city limits.
Pontotoc County court records are official documents detailing legal proceedings and outcomes in the county's courts. They contain case filings, dockets, transcripts, dispositions, and court rulings. Examples include:
- Criminal records
- Civil records
- Probate records
- Family law records
- Traffic records
Under the Mississippi Public Records Act, most court records are generally open to the public to promote transparency and accountability in the judicial process. However, records involving juvenile and adoption cases are exempt from public disclosure. The Circuit Clerk manages records for the Circuit and County Courts while the Chancery Clerk oversees equity, probate, and family law records.
Pontotoc County court records are accessible through the Mississippi Electronic Courts (MEC) portal. Users can search records by name or case number after creating an account. Requesters can also visit or contact the Clerk's Office at:
34 South Liberty Street
Pontotoc, MS 38863
Phone: (662) 489-3908
Fees may apply for obtaining physical or certified copies, typically charged per page or certification.
