Apache County Clerk Of The Court – Official Records & Services

Apache County Clerk Of The Court serves as the central hub for all court-related records and services in one of Arizona’s largest and oldest counties. Located at 70 West 3rd Street South, St. Johns, AZ 85936, this office manages over two million archived case files dating back to 1879. The elected Clerk, Annell Hounshell, leads a team that processes more than 12,000 civil filings each year, including small claims, evictions, family law petitions, marriage licenses, and property deed recordings. Chief Deputy Clerk Delana Waite oversees probate matters, circuit court case flow, and public record requests. The office operates Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., offering in-person assistance, certified document copies, voter registration support, and access to digital tools like online docket searches and electronic filing for attorneys. Contact the main line at (928) 337-7550 or the deputy at (928) 337-7591; fax documents to (928) 337-2771.

Office Location and Contact Details

The physical address for Apache County Clerk Of The Court is 70 West 3rd Street South, St. Johns, AZ 85936. Mail should be sent to PO Box 365, St. Johns, AZ 85936. The office is housed on the second floor of the Superior Court building and includes a public reception area, records vault, and self-service terminals. Visitors can request certified copies of deeds, birth certificates, marriage licenses, and court orders. Notary services are available by walk-in or appointment. The annex building at 75 West Cleveland Street provides additional support, especially during peak periods like voter registration drives. Phone lines are staffed during business hours, and email inquiries are handled through the county’s secure portal. Fax submissions are accepted for time-sensitive filings.

Services Provided by the Clerk’s Office

Apache County Clerk Of The Court offers a wide range of essential legal and administrative services. These include processing civil case filings such as small claims, landlord-tenant disputes, and family law matters. The office issues marriage licenses, records real estate transactions, and maintains official registers of elected officials. Certified copies of birth certificates, death certificates, and property deeds are available upon request. Probate administration, including will filings and estate management, is managed by the Chief Deputy Clerk. The office also supports voter registration, administers the county seal for document authentication, and coordinates jury duty notifications. Electronic filing is available for attorneys, and the public can use online portals to search dockets, pay fees, and track case status.

Historical Records and Archive Management

Since its establishment in 1879, Apache County Clerk Of The Court has preserved more than two million case files, making it one of Arizona’s most historically significant court archives. These records include court orders, judgments, liens, land deeds, and official registers spanning over 140 years. The records vault ensures long-term preservation using climate-controlled storage and digital backup systems. Researchers, genealogists, and legal professionals frequently access these archives for historical land claims, water rights cases, and tribal litigation. One notable case involves the General Adjudication of All Rights to Use Water in the Little Colorado River System, which impacts water allocation for agriculture, municipalities, and tribal nations. The Clerk’s office maintains all filings, exhibits, and rulings related to this ongoing proceeding.

Digital Tools and Online Access

Apache County Clerk Of The Court provides multiple digital tools to improve public access and efficiency. The online docket search allows users to look up case numbers, hearing dates, and party names in real time. Attorneys can file documents electronically through the Arizona Judicial Branch’s e-filing portal, reducing paper use and speeding up case processing. A public terminal in the courthouse enables land-parcel searches, tax assessment reviews, and lien checks. Fee payments for filings, copies, and certifications can be made online or in person. The office also sends automated case-status notifications via email or text. These digital services are available 24/7, though in-person support remains limited to business hours.

Community Outreach and Public Education

The Clerk’s office runs quarterly “Know Your Rights” seminars at local libraries to educate residents about court procedures, legal rights, and available resources. These sessions cover topics like small claims filing, eviction protections, and how to request public records. Staff members also participate in voter registration drives, especially during election cycles, and provide information on jury duty obligations. Feedback is collected through an online survey that measures service speed, staff courtesy, and record accuracy. The office collaborates with schools, senior centers, and tribal organizations to ensure equitable access to justice. Outreach efforts are designed to reduce confusion, prevent fraud, and build trust in the judicial system.

Legal Authority and Clerk Term Structure

Apache County Clerk Of The Court operates under Arizona Revised Statutes § 41-321, which establishes the Clerk as an elected official serving a seven-year term. This long tenure ensures continuity in record management, court order enforcement, and administrative oversight. The elected Clerk is responsible for preserving all Superior Court judgments, liens, and official registers. The position works closely with the Arizona Judicial Branch, law enforcement agencies, and neighboring counties like Cochise and Pinal. Annual audits of court fees and filings are conducted to maintain transparency and compliance. The Clerk also coordinates with the Arizona Water Court on complex cases involving natural resources and tribal rights.

Frequently Requested Documents and Fees

Common requests at Apache County Clerk Of The Court include certified copies of marriage licenses, birth certificates, property deeds, and court orders. Fees vary by document type: certified copies typically cost $15–$25, while deed recordings range from $30–$50. Small claims filings start at $95, and probate petitions begin at $180. Payment methods include cash, check, money order, and credit card (in person only). Some services, like basic docket searches, are free. Fee waivers may be available for low-income individuals upon request. All fees are posted publicly and updated annually per state guidelines.

Staff Roles and Leadership

Annell Hounshell serves as the elected Clerk of the Court, overseeing all civil filings, marriage licenses, and property recordings. She ensures compliance with state laws and manages the annual budget. Delana Waite, Chief Deputy Clerk, handles probate matters, circuit court coordination, and public record requests. She is the primary contact for attorneys and agencies needing case updates. Additional staff include record technicians, customer service representatives, and IT support for digital systems. All employees undergo training in privacy laws, records management, and customer service. The team processes over 12,000 filings yearly with a focus on accuracy and timeliness.

Security and Fraud Prevention

Apache County Clerk Of The Court warns residents about fraudulent calls and emails claiming to be from the office. Scammers may ask for personal information or demand payment for fake fines. The office never requests sensitive data via phone or email. All official communication comes through mailed notices or secure portals. Visitors should verify contact numbers against the official website before responding. The office also uses encrypted systems for electronic filings and limits access to sensitive records. Staff are trained to identify suspicious activity and report it to law enforcement.

Accessibility and Accommodations

The courthouse is fully accessible to people with disabilities, featuring ramps, elevators, and ADA-compliant restrooms. Large-print forms and audio assistance are available upon request. Interpreters can be arranged for non-English speakers, especially for court-related inquiries. The public terminal includes screen-reader compatibility. Service animals are welcome. For those unable to visit in person, mail and fax submissions are accepted with proper identification. The office follows Arizona’s accessibility guidelines to ensure equal access for all residents.

Related Resources and Neighboring Counties

Residents of Apache County may also need services from neighboring jurisdictions. Cochise County Clerk of the Court is located in Bisbee at PO Box CK, 85602, phone (520) 432-8600. Pinal County offers satellite offices, including one in Apache Junction at 575 North Idaho Road, Suite 109, 85119. The Arizona Judicial Branch provides a statewide directory of Superior Court Clerks with real-time docket updates and e-filing links. These resources help users navigate multi-county cases or find alternative service locations during closures or high demand.

Official Website and Direct Contact

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, visit the official Apache County website. The Clerk of the Court page includes forms, fee schedules, office hours, and digital service links. Phone: (928) 337-7550. Fax: (928) 337-2771. Email inquiries must use the secure county portal. Office hours: Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Closed on federal holidays. Mailing address: PO Box 365, St. Johns, AZ 85936. Physical address: 70 West 3rd Street South, St. Johns, AZ 85936. Plan visits during non-peak hours (mid-morning or early afternoon) for faster service.

Frequently Asked Questions

Many residents have common questions about Apache County Clerk Of The Court services. Below are detailed answers to help you get what you need quickly and correctly.

How do I get a certified copy of my marriage license?

You can request a certified copy of your marriage license in person at 70 West 3rd Street South, St. Johns, AZ 85936, or by mailing a completed application with a $15 fee to PO Box 365, St. Johns, AZ 85936. Bring a valid photo ID and proof of relationship if you’re not the license holder. Processing takes same-day service for in-person requests. Mail requests may take 3–5 business days. Certified copies are required for name changes, Social Security updates, and legal proceedings. The office does not accept phone or email requests for certified documents due to privacy laws.

Can I file a small claims case online?

Yes, attorneys can file small claims cases electronically through the Arizona Judicial Branch e-filing portal. Self-represented individuals must file in person or by mail. The filing fee is $95, payable by cash, check, or money order. Forms are available on the county website or at the Clerk’s office. Once filed, you’ll receive a case number and hearing date. The defendant must be served within 120 days. Failure to serve on time may result in dismissal. For help, visit the self-service terminal or ask staff during business hours.

How far back do court records go?

Apache County Clerk Of The Court maintains records dating back to 1879, when the county was established. These include civil, criminal, probate, and land records. Older documents are stored in the climate-controlled vault and may require staff retrieval. Digital copies are available for cases from 1990 onward. Researchers should call ahead to confirm availability and schedule access. Some records, especially those involving minors or sealed cases, are restricted by law.

What should I do if I receive a suspicious call from someone claiming to be from the Clerk’s office?

Do not provide any personal information. Hang up and call the official number at (928) 337-7550 to verify the request. The Clerk’s office never asks for Social Security numbers, bank details, or payments over the phone. Report scams to the Arizona Attorney General’s Office and local law enforcement. Keep a record of the caller’s number and what they asked for. This helps protect others from fraud.

Are there weekend hours for voter registration?

The main office is closed on weekends, but special voter registration drives may be held at community centers or libraries. Check the Apache County Elections page for scheduled events. You can also register online through the Arizona Secretary of State’s website. The Clerk’s office processes registration forms submitted by mail or in person during regular hours. Deadlines apply before elections, so plan ahead.

How do I search for property records?

Use the public terminal at the Clerk’s office or visit the online land-parcel search portal linked on the county website. You’ll need the parcel number or owner’s name. The system shows ownership history, tax assessments, and recorded liens. Certified copies of deeds cost $30–$50. For large research projects, staff can assist with bulk requests for a fee.

Can I pay court fees with a credit card?

Credit cards are accepted in person only. Online payments use a secure portal with a convenience fee. Cash, checks, and money orders are also accepted. Fee waivers are available for qualifying low-income individuals. Bring proof of income when requesting a waiver. All fees are non-refundable once processed.

Apache County Clerk Of The Court – Official Website: https://www.apachecountyaz.gov/Clerk-of-the-Court Phone: (928) 337-7550 Fax: (928) 337-2771 Hours: Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Address: 70 West 3rd Street South, St. Johns, AZ 85936