St. Croix County Court Records

What Is St. Croix County Court Records

St. Croix County court records encompass all official documentation generated during legal proceedings within the county's court system. These records constitute the comprehensive documentation of judicial activities as maintained by the courts serving St. Croix County, Wisconsin. Pursuant to Wisconsin Statute § 19.31, court records are considered public documents that provide transparency in judicial proceedings.

Court records in St. Croix County typically include:

• Case files containing pleadings, motions, and responses
• Court dockets that chronologically list all case events
• Judicial orders and final judgments
• Hearing and trial transcripts
• Evidence and exhibits admitted during proceedings
• Sentencing information in criminal matters
• Settlement agreements in civil cases
• Jury verdicts and judicial decisions

These records differ from other public records such as vital records (birth, death, marriage certificates) and property records (deeds, mortgages, liens), which are maintained by different county departments.

The Wisconsin Circuit Court System maintains records for various courts operating within St. Croix County, including:

• Circuit Court (primary trial court)
• Municipal Courts (handling ordinance violations)
• Family Court (domestic relations matters)
• Probate Court (wills, estates, guardianships)
• Small Claims Court (minor civil disputes)

Court records encompass documentation from civil litigation, criminal prosecutions, family law matters, probate proceedings, and traffic violations that occur within the county's jurisdiction.

Are Court Records Public In St. Croix County

Court records in St. Croix County are generally accessible to the public in accordance with Wisconsin's open records laws. The state's commitment to transparency is codified in Wisconsin Statute § 19.31, which declares that providing citizens with information about governmental affairs is "an essential function of a representative government and an integral part of the routine duties of officers and employees."

The Wisconsin Supreme Court has consistently recognized that the state's public records laws extend to circuit court records, affirming the public's right to access judicial documents. This principle of openness applies to most court records in St. Croix County, including:

• Civil case files (complaints, answers, motions, judgments)
• Criminal case files after formal charges have been filed
• Court orders and judicial decisions
• Docket sheets listing case events and schedules
• Court calendars and hearing schedules

However, certain exceptions and limitations exist to protect privacy interests and sensitive information. Records that may be restricted include:

• Juvenile proceedings (unless opened by judicial order)
• Adoption records
• Mental health commitment proceedings
• Certain family court matters involving minors
• Cases sealed by judicial order
• Documents containing information protected by state or federal law

Access to electronic court records is governed by the Wisconsin Circuit Court Access (WCCA) policy, which balances public access rights with privacy concerns. The Public Access to Circuit Court Records guidelines establish parameters for what information is available through the state's online court records system.

How To Find Court Records in St. Croix County in 2026

Members of the public seeking court records in St. Croix County may utilize several methods to locate and access these documents. The county maintains current systems that provide both in-person and electronic access options.

For in-person requests:

1. Visit the St. Croix County Clerk of Circuit Court office during regular business hours:

   St. Croix County Clerk of Circuit Court
   1101 Carmichael Road
   Hudson, WI 54016
   715-386-4630
   St. Croix County Clerk of Courts

2. Complete a records request form, providing case number, party names, or other identifying information

3. Pay applicable copy fees (currently $1.25 per page for regular copies)

4. For certified copies, additional certification fees apply

For online access:

1. Access the Wisconsin Circuit Court Access portal
2. Select search parameters (case number, party name, business name)
3. Specify St. Croix County as the jurisdiction
4. Review search results and select desired case records
5. Note that complete case files may not be available online; some documents require in-person requests

For records not available through standard channels:

1. Submit a written request to the Clerk of Courts specifying the desired records
2. Include contact information and preferred delivery method
3. Allow 5-10 business days for processing
4. For expedited requests, contact the clerk's office directly

Researchers may also access certain historical court records through the St. Croix County Historical Society for cases predating digital records systems.

How To Look Up Court Records in St. Croix County Online?

St. Croix County residents and interested parties can access court records through several online portals maintained by state and county authorities. The primary resource for electronic court record access is the Wisconsin Circuit Court Access (WCCA) system, commonly known as CCAP.

To search for court records using the Wisconsin Circuit Court Access portal:

1. Navigate to the WCCA website
2. Select the appropriate search method:
   • Simple Search (by name)
   • Advanced Search (multiple parameters)
   • Business Search (for business entities)
   • Case Number Search (requires specific case number)
3. For name searches, enter last name and first name
4. Select St. Croix County from the jurisdiction dropdown menu
5. Specify case types if desired (criminal, civil, family, etc.)
6. Review search results showing case numbers, filing dates, and case status
7. Select individual cases to view detailed information including:
   • Party information
   • Court officials
   • Scheduling information
   • Case history and events
   • Judgment information
   • Citation details (for traffic/ordinance cases)

For municipal court records, users must access separate systems:

1. Visit the Hudson Municipal Court website for cases within Hudson city limits
2. Contact other municipal courts directly as their records may not be available online

For access to complete case documents (rather than just case summaries):

1. Register for the Wisconsin Circuit Court eFiling system
2. Note that access to full documents may require attorney credentials or party status
3. Some documents remain accessible only through in-person requests

The Consolidated Court Automation Programs (CCAP) maintains these electronic systems and regularly updates available features and access options.

How To Search St. Croix County Court Records for Free?

St. Croix County provides several no-cost options for accessing court records, in accordance with Wisconsin's public records laws. Under Wisconsin Statute § 19.35, the public has the right to inspect most records maintained by government agencies without charge, though fees may apply for copies or extensive searches.

Free access options include:

• Online Case Information: The Wisconsin Circuit Court Access (WCCA) website provides free public access to case information for circuit courts throughout Wisconsin, including St. Croix County. This resource includes:

  • Basic case information
  • Party details
  • Scheduling information
  • Case history and status
  • Judgment information

• In-Person Record Inspection: Individuals may visit the St. Croix County Courthouse to view court records at no cost:

  St. Croix County Clerk of Circuit Court
  1101 Carmichael Road
  Hudson, WI 54016
  715-386-4630
  St. Croix County Clerk of Courts

  Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM (excluding holidays)

• Public Access Terminals: Computer terminals are available at the courthouse for searching electronic court records without charge.

• Law Library Access: The St. Croix County Law Library provides free access to legal research materials and assistance with locating court records.

While inspection is free, fees apply for:

• Photocopies ($1.25 per page)
• Certified copies ($5.00 plus copy fees)
• Record searches requiring extensive staff time
• Electronic document delivery in some circumstances

The Wisconsin State Law Library also provides guidance on accessing court records throughout the state without charge.

What's Included in a St. Croix County Court Record?

St. Croix County court records contain comprehensive documentation of legal proceedings, with contents varying by case type. A typical court record file includes several categories of documents and information.

Case initiation documents:

• Complaints or petitions that commence civil actions
• Criminal complaints and information in criminal cases
• Summonses and subpoenas issued to parties
• Initial appearance documentation

Procedural documents:

• Motions filed by parties requesting court action
• Responses and replies to motions
• Affidavits and sworn statements
• Court notices and scheduling orders
• Proof of service documentation

Evidentiary materials:

• Exhibits admitted during hearings or trials
• Witness lists and testimony transcripts
• Expert reports and opinions
• Deposition transcripts (in some cases)

Judicial documents:

• Court orders on motions and other matters
• Findings of fact and conclusions of law
• Final judgments and decrees
• Sentencing information in criminal cases
• Jury instructions and verdict forms

Administrative information:

• Case number and filing date
• Judge assignment and court division
• Attorney information for represented parties
• Court reporter information
• Filing fee payment records

Post-judgment materials:

• Appeals documentation
• Satisfaction of judgment notices
• Probation/supervision reports in criminal matters
• Collection efforts in civil judgments

The Wisconsin Circuit Court forms used in these proceedings are standardized throughout the state, ensuring consistency in record formats across counties.

How Long Does St. Croix County Keep Court Records?

St. Croix County maintains court records according to retention schedules established by the Wisconsin Supreme Court. These schedules, authorized under Wisconsin Statute § 757.54, specify minimum retention periods for various types of court documents.

Current retention periods for major case types include:

Criminal Cases:

• Felony case files: 75 years after entry of final judgment
• Misdemeanor case files: 20 years after entry of final judgment
• Criminal traffic cases: 5-20 years depending on offense severity
• Exhibits in homicide cases: 75 years
• Exhibits in other criminal cases: Until appeal time expires plus 1 year

Civil Cases:

• General civil litigation: 20 years after entry of final judgment
• Small claims cases: 20 years after final disposition
• Civil judgments: 20 years (renewable)
• Temporary restraining orders: 5 years after expiration
• Civil exhibits: Until appeal time expires plus 1 year

Family Cases:

• Divorce/annulment records: 30 years after filing
• Paternity determinations: 50 years
• Child support orders: Until youngest child reaches age 33
• Adoption records: Permanent (sealed)

Probate Matters:

• Wills admitted to probate: Permanent
• Estate proceedings: 75 years
• Guardianship records: 7 years after termination of guardianship
• Conservatorship records: 7 years after termination

Other Records:

• Traffic citations (non-criminal): 5 years after disposition
• Municipal ordinance violations: 5 years after disposition
• Mental commitment proceedings: 7 years after discharge

After the retention period expires, records may be destroyed according to approved procedures. However, the Clerk of Courts may preserve records beyond minimum retention periods, particularly for cases of historical significance. Additionally, certain case indices and judgment records are maintained permanently, even after case files are destroyed.

The Wisconsin Court System periodically reviews and updates these retention schedules to balance administrative efficiency with the need for historical preservation and public access.

Types of Courts In St. Croix County

St. Croix County's judicial system consists of several court types operating within a hierarchical structure. Each court handles specific case types according to jurisdictional authority established by Wisconsin law.

St. Croix County Circuit Court
1101 Carmichael Road
Hudson, WI 54016
715-386-4630
St. Croix County Circuit Court
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM

The Circuit Court serves as the county's primary trial court with general jurisdiction over civil, criminal, family, and probate matters. St. Croix County is part of Wisconsin's 10th Judicial Administrative District.

Hudson Municipal Court
505 3rd Street
Hudson, WI 54016
715-386-4765
Hudson Municipal Court
Hours: Court sessions held twice monthly

This municipal court handles ordinance violations, traffic citations, and minor offenses occurring within Hudson city limits.

New Richmond Municipal Court
156 East First Street
New Richmond, WI 54017
715-246-6565
New Richmond Municipal Court
Hours: Court sessions held monthly

Handles municipal ordinance violations and traffic citations within New Richmond city limits.

River Falls Municipal Court
222 Lewis Street
River Falls, WI 54022
715-425-0900
River Falls Municipal Court
Hours: Court sessions held twice monthly

Adjudicates municipal ordinance violations and traffic citations within River Falls city limits.

The Wisconsin court hierarchy proceeds as follows:

1. Municipal Courts (limited jurisdiction for ordinance violations)
2. Circuit Courts (general trial jurisdiction)
3. Wisconsin Court of Appeals (intermediate appellate court)
4. Wisconsin Supreme Court (highest state court)

Federal cases arising in St. Croix County are handled by:

U.S. District Court - Western District of Wisconsin
120 North Henry Street
Madison, WI 53703
608-264-5156
U.S. District Court - Western District of Wisconsin
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM

This federal court handles cases involving federal law, constitutional questions, and disputes between parties from different states exceeding $75,000.

What Types of Cases Do St. Croix County Courts Hear?

St. Croix County courts adjudicate a diverse range of legal matters according to their jurisdictional authority. The types of cases heard by each court are determined by Wisconsin statutes and local court rules.

The St. Croix County Circuit Court, as the county's court of general jurisdiction, handles:

Civil Cases:

• Personal injury claims
• Contract disputes
• Property litigation
• Tort actions
• Small claims (under $10,000)
• Eviction proceedings
• Civil forfeitures
• Restraining orders and injunctions

Criminal Cases:

• Felony prosecutions
• Misdemeanor charges
• Criminal traffic offenses (OWI/DUI)
• Preliminary hearings
• Arraignments and plea hearings
• Sentencing proceedings
• Probation revocation hearings

Family Law Matters:

• Divorce and legal separation
• Child custody and placement
• Child support determinations
• Paternity actions
• Adoption proceedings
• Name changes
• Domestic abuse injunctions

Probate and Estate Matters:

• Will probate
• Estate administration
• Guardianships (adult and minor)
• Conservatorships
• Trust administration
• Mental health commitments

Municipal Courts in St. Croix County (Hudson, New Richmond, River Falls) have limited jurisdiction over:

• Municipal ordinance violations
• First-offense OWI/DUI (in some municipalities)
• Parking citations
• Building code violations
• Animal control violations
• Juvenile curfew violations
• Underage alcohol violations
• Disorderly conduct citations

Traffic matters are divided between courts based on severity:

• Non-criminal traffic citations: Municipal Courts
• Criminal traffic offenses (OWI/DUI, driving after revocation): Circuit Court

Juvenile matters handled by the Circuit Court include:

• Delinquency proceedings
• Juvenile in need of protection services (JIPS)
• Truancy cases
• Underage alcohol and drug offenses

The Wisconsin Court System provides standardized circuit court forms for many of these case types to ensure consistent processing throughout the state.

How To Find a Court Docket In St. Croix County

Court dockets in St. Croix County provide chronological listings of scheduled hearings, filings, and other case events. These records are accessible through multiple channels depending on the user's needs and the case type.

To access St. Croix County court dockets online:

1. Visit the Wisconsin Circuit Court Access website
2. Select the appropriate search method (name, case number, etc.)
3. Specify St. Croix County as the jurisdiction
4. Review search results to find the relevant case
5. Select the case to view the court docket, which includes:
   • Scheduled hearings and appearances
   • Filing dates and document descriptions
   • Court orders and decisions
   • Party and attorney information
   • Case status updates

For in-person docket access:

1. Visit the St. Croix County Clerk of Circuit Court office:

   St. Croix County Clerk of Circuit Court
   1101 Carmichael Road
   Hudson, WI 54016
   715-386-4630
   St. Croix County Clerk of Courts

2. Request to view the docket for a specific case

3. Provide case number or party names to assist in locating records

4. Use public access terminals available in the clerk's office

For municipal court dockets:

1. Contact the specific municipal court directly:

   • Hudson Municipal Court: 715-386-4765
   • New Richmond Municipal Court: 715-246-6565
   • River Falls Municipal Court: 715-425-0900

2. Provide citation number or name to identify the case

3. Inquire about upcoming court dates and proceedings

Attorneys and registered users can access additional docket information through:

1. The Wisconsin Circuit Court eFiling system
2. Electronic notices of court events
3. Court calendars published for specific judges or court branches

The Wisconsin State Law Library provides additional guidance on accessing court dockets and understanding docket entries.

Which Courts in St. Croix County Are Not Courts of Record?

In St. Croix County, municipal courts operate as courts not of record, in accordance with Wisconsin Statute § 755.01. This designation has significant implications for proceedings, appeals, and record-keeping practices.

Courts not of record in St. Croix County include:

• Hudson Municipal Court
  505 3rd Street
  Hudson, WI 54016
  715-386-4765
  Hudson Municipal Court

• New Richmond Municipal Court
  156 East First Street
  New Richmond, WI 54017
  715-246-6565

• River Falls Municipal Court
  222 Lewis Street
  River Falls, WI 54022
  715-425-0900

As courts not of record, these municipal courts:

• Do not maintain verbatim transcripts of proceedings
• Do not require court reporters to be present
• Issue decisions that may be appealed to the Circuit Court for a trial de novo (new trial)
• Handle only ordinance violations and limited traffic matters
• Impose forfeitures rather than criminal penalties
• Operate with less formal procedures than courts of record

In contrast, the St. Croix County Circuit Court functions as a court of record, meaning:

• Proceedings are recorded verbatim
• Official transcripts can be produced
• Appeals are based on the existing record rather than new trials
• Decisions create precedent within jurisdictional limits
• More formal procedural and evidentiary rules apply

The distinction between courts of record and courts not of record is particularly important for appeal rights. When appealing from a municipal court decision, the case is essentially retried in the Circuit Court rather than reviewed for legal errors based on a transcript.

Municipal court judges in St. Croix County are not required to be attorneys, unlike judges in courts of record, though they must complete judicial education requirements established by the Wisconsin Supreme Court.

Lookup Court Records in St. Croix County

Wisconsin Circuit Court Access

St. Croix County Clerk of Courts

Wisconsin Court System

Hudson Municipal Court

Wisconsin Circuit Court Forms

Wisconsin Court Records - State Law Library

Consolidated Court Automation Programs

Public Access to Circuit Court Records

Wisconsin Department of Justice Records Check

Wisconsin Public Records Law