Criminal records in Sumner County, Tennessee, are public documents, access to which is regulated by state law. SumnerCourt.us allows you to search for publicly available information on criminal cases in the county. Additionally, records can be obtained through the official state court systems, the Sumner County Sheriff's Office, as well as the court clerk's office — in person, by mail, or online.
How to Search Criminal Records in Sumner
There are several ways to find criminal records in Sumner County. Start with what is most convenient for you.
Online Search
- SumnerCourt.us — enter the person's name or case number to view publicly available information on county criminal court cases.
- Tennessee Felony Offender Information Lookup — a database of the Tennessee Department of Corrections. Here you can find information about individuals convicted of felonies who were or are under the department's supervision.
- Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) — official state-level criminal background checks are available through TBI for a separate fee.
- Sumner County Sheriff's Website — provides information on open cases and allows you to send a message.
In-Person Visit
The Criminal Court Clerk's office in Sumner County accepts requests to search records. Public terminals for viewing cases are usually available in the courthouse. Bring your ID.
Mail Request
A written request can be sent to the court clerk's office or to TBI as the state repository of criminal history. Include in your request:
- Full name of the person (last name, first name, middle name)
- Date of birth
- Case number (if known)
- Your contact information and purpose of the request
According to the Tennessee Public Records Act, citizens have the right to access public records of the state, counties, and municipalities.
Search Sumner Criminal Cases by Case Number
Searching by case number is the fastest way to find a specific criminal case. In Tennessee, case numbers typically have a structure that includes several elements:
- Year of filing — the first two or four digits indicate the year the case was filed.
- Case type code — a letter code indicating the category: for example, "CR" for criminal cases, "GS" for General Sessions cases.
- Sequential number — a unique sequential number assigned to the case within the year and type.
Example: 2024-CR-001234 indicates a criminal case filed in 2024 under sequential number 001234. The exact format may vary depending on the court — Circuit Court and General Sessions Court use different numbering systems. If you are unsure of the format, contact the appropriate court clerk's office.
Charges, Case Status, Hearings, and Court Results in Sumner
When you find a criminal case, the record contains several key data categories. Below is an explanation of what each means in practice.
Charges
| Element | Description |
|---|---|
| Statute Code | Reference to a specific article of the Tennessee Code Annotated (T.C.A.) under which the charges are brought |
| Severity Level | Felony — classes A–E; misdemeanor — classes A–C; violation |
| Amended Charges | The prosecutor may change or reduce charges during the trial — this is reflected in the record |
Case Status
- Pending — the case has been filed, but a decision has not yet been made.
- Active — the case is actively being heard in court.
- Disposed — the court has made a decision, and the case is closed on the merits.
- Closed — all procedures are completed, including the execution of the sentence.
Types of Court Hearings
The case goes through several stages:
- Arraignment — the first hearing where the defendant is read the charges and pleads guilty or not guilty.
- Preliminary Hearing — the judge determines if there is enough evidence for further proceedings.
- Pre-trial — the parties discuss procedural issues, possible agreements.
- Sentencing — sentencing after a guilty plea or conviction.
- Review — review of punishment conditions, probation, or other obligations.
Court Results
| Result | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Guilty | The defendant is found guilty |
| Not Guilty | The defendant is acquitted |
| Dismissed | The case is closed without a verdict |
| Nolle Prosequi | The prosecutor has dropped the charges |
| Acquitted | Acquittal as a result of the trial |
How to Request Certified Criminal Records in Sumner
Certified copies of criminal records have the official court seal and are accepted as a legal document. They are issued by the Sumner County Criminal Court Clerk's office.
Where to Apply
Sumner County Criminal Court Clerk
Ways to Submit a Request
- In Person — visit the clerk's office with identification (driver's license or passport). The clerk will conduct a search and issue a certified copy.
- By Mail — send a written request specifying the full name of the person, date of birth, case number (if known), a copy of identification, and payment in the form of a money order.
State-Level Criminal History Check
For an official background check, contact the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation. TBI accepts requests online and by mail. You need to provide fingerprints and pay the established fee.
Fees, Copy Costs, and Processing Times for Criminal Records in Sumner
The amount of fees is determined by Tennessee law and the internal rules of the clerk's office. Below are approximate amounts — check the current rates directly with the court clerk's office.
| Service | Cost | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Copy of court document | $0.50 per page | Standard rate according to T.C.A. § 8-21-401 |
| Certification of copy | $5.00–$6.00 | Per certified document |
| Criminal history check through TBI | $29.00 | Fee for state check; may vary |
| Fingerprint check (FBI + TBI) | From $40.00 | Combined federal and state-level check |
Processing Time
Requests submitted in person are usually processed the same day if records are available in the electronic system. Mail requests take 5 to 15 business days. Checks through TBI are processed within 3–5 business days for electronic requests; fingerprint requests may take longer. Older cases stored only in paper form require additional search time.