Rhea County
Rhea County, Tennessee, was established in 1807. It is named after John Rhea, a prominent Revolutionary War veteran and congressman. Located in southeastern Tennessee, the county covers approximately 336 square miles and is bordered by the Tennessee River. Dayton is the county seat. According to the United States Census Bureau, Rhea County had an estimated population of 33,924 as of July 1, 2023. The county's judicial system comprises the Circuit Court, Chancery Court, General Sessions Court, Juvenile Court, and Municipal Courts.
Rhea County Circuit Court has jurisdiction over criminal and civil cases. It handles felony cases, major civil disputes, as well as appeals from the lower courts. The court shares jurisdiction over some types of cases with other courts. The Chancery Court has jurisdiction over equitable matters, including guardianships, property disputes, and probate cases. Cases of misdemeanors, felonies, and smaller civil disputes, including landlord-tenant disputes, are heard by the General Sessions Court. The court may also handle domestic relations, divorce, or worker compensation cases. Cases involving minors, such as child custody, delinquency, and dependency in Rhea County, are handled by the Juvenile Court. Typically, violations of city ordinances and traffic infractions within the county are handled by the Municipal Court.
Rhea County's public court records are maintained and disseminated by the Circuit Court Clerk's Office in compliance with Tennessee's Public Records Act. Except for certain restricted files, such as juvenile cases or sensitive family law matters, most public court records are accessible to the public. Publicly accessible court records in Rhea County include:
- Criminal case records
- Civil case records
- Probate records
- Traffic violation records
Most Rhea County public court records are available through the Tennessee Court Records system online platform. The system allows the public to find case records by surname or case number. Certain fees may apply for obtaining certified copies or detailed searches. Residents and researchers may also access Rhea County public court records by visiting the county clerk's office at:
375 Church Street, Suite 101
Dayton, TN 37321
Phone: (423) 775-7808
