Bardstown Court Records Search: Find Public Case Files Fast

Bardstown court records are the official judicial files produced by the Nelson County Circuit Court, Nelson County District Court, and Bardstown Municipal Court. These files hold criminal indictments, civil lawsuits, divorce decrees, custody orders, traffic citations, probate matters, and sentencing orders. Residents, employers, journalists, and family members run a Bardstown court record search for many reasons: background checks, genealogy research, and due diligence before signing a lease or contract. Kentucky’s Open Records Act (KRS 61.870) makes most Bardstown public court records available to anyone who requests them through official channels. The Nelson County Circuit Court Clerk, Rhodes Blane Bell, oversees these files at the Nelson County Justice Center on Justice Center Drive in Bardstown, KY 40004. Whether you need a Bardstown judicial records review for a personal matter or a professional screening, knowing where to look saves hours of frustration. Court documents, dockets, and case indexes are kept both in paper format and within the statewide KyCourtNet digital system.

Bardstown court records become much easier to access once you learn how to find Bardstown court records through the right portal, form, or counter for your specific need. The fastest free route for a Bardstown legal records search is the KyCourtNet public case search at kycourts.gov, where you can filter by Nelson County, enter a party name or case number, and view docket entries within seconds. For certified copies or older archived matters, visit the Nelson County Justice Center in person or submit a written request by mail. A Bardstown court case lookup by name works best when you know the approximate filing year, since common surnames can return dozens of matches. Third-party services like GoLookUp, TruthFinder, and BeenVerified run a Bardstown court record lookup across aggregated databases, which speeds up nationwide background research. Each approach has tradeoffs in cost, speed, and certification status, so pick the path that matches your goal: simple confirmation, legal evidence, or employment screening. For restricted files like juvenile, sealed, or expunged cases, Kentucky statutes KRS 431.073 and KRS 610.320 control access, and those records will not appear in any public Bardstown court case search.

Defining Bardstown Court Records in the Kentucky Judicial System

Bardstown court records are the permanent, court-generated files that document every official action taken by a judge in any case filed in Bardstown, Kentucky. The files contain complaints, indictments, motions, orders, judgments, dockets, sentencing sheets, and certified dispositions. Each file is assigned a unique case number, indexed under party names, and stored by the Circuit Court Clerk as the official custodian. The records serve as the public’s window into how the local courts resolve disputes, prosecute crimes, and manage family matters. Because Kentucky’s Constitution and the Open Records Act favor public access, almost every filed document becomes part of the public domain, unless a judge specifically seals the file.

What makes a record “official” in Bardstown?

A record gains “official” status the moment a clerk files it with the court and assigns a docket number. The clerk’s signature, the court seal, or the electronic filing stamp from the Kentucky eCourts system validates the document. Anyone who copies or republishes an officially filed document may use it for lawful purposes, but they cannot alter, destroy, or misrepresent it.

Difference between court records and police reports in Bardstown

Court records come from the judicial branch, while police reports come from law enforcement agencies like the Bardstown Police Department or Kentucky State Police. A police report may exist before a court case is filed, but it becomes part of the court record only when entered as evidence or referenced in a charging document. You request police reports from the relevant agency, not the Circuit Court Clerk.

Which Courts Serve Bardstown, Kentucky?

Three trial courts share jurisdiction inside Bardstown city limits. Each court produces a different category of court record, so identifying the correct court is the first step for any Bardstown court case lookup.

Nelson County Circuit Court (34th Judicial Circuit)

The Circuit Court handles the heaviest caseload in Bardstown. It sits in the Nelson County Justice Center and has general jurisdiction over felony criminal cases, civil disputes where the amount in controversy exceeds $5,000, dissolution of marriage, child custody, probate of wills, and involuntary mental health commitments.

Nelson County District Court

The District Court manages misdemeanor criminal cases, traffic infractions, small claims up to $5,000, landlord-tenant disputes, and emergency protective orders. District Court also handles preliminary hearings for felony cases before they move up to Circuit Court.

Bardstown Municipal Court (City of Bardstown ordinance violations)

The Municipal Court hears only cases that arise from city ordinances, such as certain alcohol, noise, or animal-control violations, plus some minor traffic offenses occurring within city boundaries. Cases here do not appear on the standard KyCourtNet Circuit/District search; they must be requested directly from Bardstown City Hall or the Municipal Court clerk.

How Bardstown Court Records Differ from Other Kentucky County Records

Bardstown records are Nelson County-specific, meaning they appear only when a search filters by “Nelson County” or by the court’s geographic scope. Records from Jefferson County (Louisville) or Fayette County (Lexington) live in the same KyCourtNet system but stay separated by county. The docket prefixes, judge assignments, and clerk fees follow statewide rules yet vary in practice between counties because of case volume and local administrative choices.

Types of Bardstown Court Records: Criminal, Civil, Family, Traffic, and Probate

Bardstown court records fall into five primary case-type categories: criminal, civil, family court, traffic and municipal, and probate. Each category carries a unique docket prefix, retention rule, and access tier under Kentucky law.

Bardstown Criminal Court Records

Criminal records cover every matter where the Commonwealth of Kentucky prosecutes a defendant. Files include indictments, arraignment minutes, plea agreements, trial transcripts, sentencing orders, and post-conviction motions. The Circuit and District Courts split criminal jurisdiction by severity.

Felony case files (Circuit Court — CR docket)

Felonies such as robbery, burglary, or aggravated assault are filed under the “CR” docket in Circuit Court. Penalties may range from one year to life imprisonment. Felony records stay on KyCourtNet permanently unless expunged under KRS 431.073.

Misdemeanor and DUI records (District Court — CR-M docket)

Misdemeanors and DUI charges filed in Bardstown appear under the “CR-M” docket in District Court. Convictions may carry up to twelve months in jail and fines. DUI offenses for first or second offenders follow KRS 189A and carry administrative license suspension.

Pre-trial diversion outcomes

Some misdemeanor or low-level felony defendants qualify for pre-trial diversion under KRS 533.250. Successful completion leads to a dismissal, and the case may qualify for expungement under KRS 431.073.

Bardstown Civil Court Records

Civil cases involve private disputes between individuals or businesses. Bardstown civil records include contract disputes, personal injury claims, property damage suits, and debt collection.

Civil cases over $5,000 (Circuit Court — CI docket)

When the amount in controversy exceeds $5,000, the case lands on the Circuit Court “CI” docket. Examples include breach of contract, medical malpractice, and motor vehicle tort claims.

Small claims and landlord-tenant (District Court — CI-S, LT docket)

Disputes of $5,000 or less, plus eviction actions, appear on the District Court docket. Small claims cases use simplified procedures, so parties typically appear without attorneys. Judgments can result in wage garnishment or property liens.

Bardstown Family Court Records

Family Court in Nelson County Circuit Court handles the most personal types of cases. Files are public by default but often contain sensitive details.

Divorce decrees (DR docket)

Divorce decrees, also called decrees of dissolution, sit on the “DR” docket. They contain property division, spousal support orders, and parenting arrangements.

Custody, visitation, and support orders

These orders are part of the same DR file. The court can modify them later, and each modification creates a new docket entry.

Domestic violence protective orders (IPO docket)

Emergency and long-term protective orders appear under the “IPO” docket in District Court. Petitioners’ addresses may be redacted for safety.

Adoption records (often sealed)

Adoption files are sealed by statute. Only the adoptee (upon reaching adulthood) and certain heirs may request access through the Cabinet for Health and Family Services.

Bardstown Traffic and Ordinance Records

Traffic cases represent a large share of Bardstown’s caseload.

Traffic citations and moving violations

Speeding, reckless driving, and other moving violations land in District Court. Drivers may pay fines online, attend traffic school, or request a court date.

Bardstown city ordinance violations (Municipal Court)

Local ordinance violations (e.g., noise, animal control) are filed in Bardstown Municipal Court. These records are stored separately from Circuit and District Court files.

Bardstown Probate and Mental Health Records

Probate matters focus on wills, estates, and guardianships, while mental health cases deal with involuntary hospitalization.

Wills, estates, and guardianships (PR docket)

When a Bardstown resident dies with or without a will, the estate is opened in Circuit Court under the “PR” docket. Guardianships for minors and incapacitated adults are also filed here.

Involuntary hospitalization orders (MH docket)

Involuntary mental health commitments under KRS 202A or KRS 202B appear under the “MH” docket. Most files are restricted, but the docket itself is public.

How to Search Bardstown Court Records: Step-by-Step Official Methods

The most reliable Bardstown court record search runs through KyCourtNet (kycourts.gov) or in person at the Nelson County Circuit Court Clerk’s office in the Nelson County Justice Center.

Online Bardstown Court Record Search via KyCourtNet

KyCourtNet is the official case-search portal operated by the Kentucky Court of Justice. It provides free access to Circuit and District Court dockets statewide.

1. Visit kycourts.gov and select “Public Case Search.”
2. Choose “Nelson County” from the county dropdown.
3. Pick the court division: Circuit, District, or both.
4. Search by party name, case number, or filing date range.
5. Review the result list for criminal, civil, traffic, or family matches.
6. Click any case to view the docket sheet and document list.

KyCourtNet search limitations

Name misspellings, CMS indexing lags, and minor party-name changes can produce partial results. If your search returns no matches, try alternate spellings, maiden names, or the full middle name. Cases filed before 1990 are not always available online and may require microfilm retrieval.

KyCourtNet versus KYeCourts

Kentucky is phasing in the KYeCourts platform for electronic filing and case management. KyCourtNet remains the public search tool, but KYeCourts governs attorney-filed documents. Both systems share underlying data, so a Bardstown court case search on either portal should match.

In-Person Bardstown Court Case Lookup

Some records remain easier to retrieve in person. The clerk’s office keeps public terminals for self-service docket browsing.

Hours, address, and parking

The Nelson County Justice Center sits at 200 Nelson County Justice Center Drive, Bardstown, KY 40004. Office hours run Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., closed on state holidays. Free public parking is available on site.

What to bring

Bring a valid photo ID, the case number (if known), and the full legal name of any party. Staff will direct you to public terminals or pull paper files as needed.

Requesting archived microfilm records (pre-1990 cases)

Cases older than 1990 may live on microfilm. Submit a written request to the clerk with the case number, party name, and a brief description of the documents needed. The clerk will schedule retrieval, often within five business days.

Mail or Written Request for Bardstown Court Documents

When travel or time prevents an in-person visit, written requests work for uncertified and certified copies alike.

Required form

Kentucky does not require a single statewide form for record requests. Many clerks accept a written letter that includes case number, party name, and the documents needed. Some offices publish their own request forms on their websites.

Certified copy fees

The Nelson County Circuit Court Clerk charges $0.50 per page for standard copies, plus a $5.00 certification fee per document. Self-service copies cost $0.25 per page. Exact fees are set under the Kentucky Court of Justice fee schedule.

Turnaround times

Mail requests usually take five to ten business days. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope and a check or money order payable to the Nelson County Circuit Court Clerk.

Bardstown Court Record Lookup: Online Platforms and Third-Party Search Services

Third-party Bardstown court record search platforms aggregate data from KyCourtNet and Nelson County clerk filings, often delivering faster name-matched, nationwide-cross-referenced results. Use them for personal research, then verify through the official source.

Free vs. Paid Bardstown Court Record Search Tools

How to Use GoLookUp for a Bardstown Court Record Search

1. Create an account at GoLookUp.com.
2. Choose the “Court Records” search module.
3. Enter the subject’s full name and Kentucky location.
4. Filter by case type (criminal, civil, traffic).
5. Review the aggregated Nelson County filings.
6. Cross-reference each result with KyCourtNet before relying on it.

When a Third-Party Bardstown Court Record Lookup Helps

Background checks for employment or tenancy

Property managers and small employers sometimes use third-party platforms for a quick screening. For FCRA-regulated decisions, only a consumer reporting agency can provide a compliant report.

Investigative journalism and due diligence

Reporters and researchers rely on aggregators to surface criminal and civil histories across multiple states. The aggregators speed up data collection but still require official source verification.

Family reunification or personal research

People searching for biological relatives, old friends, or distant cousins use third-party platforms to locate court-record signals (such as marriage, divorce, or estate filings) across many years.

Limitations and Legal Caveats of Third-Party Court Record Sites

Expunged records should not appear

Reputable aggregators scrub their indexes after a verified expungement notice. If you spot an expunged case, request a correction through the platform’s dispute process.

FCRA compliance for employment use

Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, employers must use a Consumer Reporting Agency (CRA) for background checks. Self-conducted searches on KyCourtNet or third-party sites cannot legally support an adverse hiring decision.

Data accuracy disclaimers and dispute processes

Third-party platforms publish accuracy disclaimers and dispute portals. Submit written disputes with supporting documents, and keep copies of every correction.

Understanding Bardstown Court Documents: Fields, Terminology, and What They Mean

Each Bardstown court record contains standardized fields (case number, parties, charges/statutes, docket entries, and dispositions) that follow Kentucky Court of Justice naming conventions. Reading these fields helps you interpret any Bardstown court case search result.

Anatomy of a Bardstown Court Case Number

A typical case number reads: 24-CR-00123. The first two digits are the filing year, the middle letters identify the docket type, and the trailing digits form a sequence number assigned by the clerk. Master files use suffixes (e.g., “A,” “B”) for additional defendants.

Circuit Court docket prefixes (CR, CI, DR, PR, MH)

• CR — Criminal (felony)
• CI — Civil
• DR — Domestic Relations (divorce, custody)
• PR — Probate
• MH — Mental Health

District Court docket prefixes

• CR-M — Criminal Misdemeanor
• CI-S — Civil Small Claims
• LT — Landlord-Tenant
• IP — Interpersonal Protective Order
• TR — Traffic

Master vs. individual case indexing

Master files group all actions in one case, while individual case entries track related sub-files (e.g., co-defendants). Searches using one party may not surface co-parties; search each name separately when running a full Bardstown court record lookup.

Key Parties on Bardstown Court Records

Commonwealth of Kentucky (criminal cases)

The Commonwealth is the prosecution in every criminal case. Its representative is the Nelson County Commonwealth’s Attorney.

Plaintiff / Defendant or Petitioner / Respondent

Civil cases use “plaintiff” and “defendant.” Family court cases use “petitioner” and “respondent.” These labels appear in the docket header for every filing.

Third-party intervenors and amici

Outside parties can join civil litigation through motions to intervene. Friend-of-the-court briefs (“amici curiae”) sometimes appear in appealed cases. These entries sit in the docket under their own filings.

Charges, Statutes, and Disposition Codes

Reading KRS citations

Each criminal charge lists a Kentucky Revised Statutes reference (e.g., KRS 514.110 for receiving stolen property). Visit legislature.ky.gov to read the full statute text and penalty range.

Disposition codes

• G — Guilty
• NG — Not Guilty
• DIV — Dismissed / Diverted
• DIS — Dismissed
• PNI — Prosecution Declined to Prosecute
• ACD — Amended to Charge Different

Sentencing outcomes

Common outcomes include probation, incarceration, fines, restitution, and court-ordered classes. The sentencing order lists each component along with the supervising agency.

Common Bardstown Court Document Types

Complaints and indictments

A complaint starts a misdemeanor case; an indictment starts a felony case. Both list the charges, facts, and requested relief.

Warrants and capiases

Warrants authorize arrests; capiases compel a defendant’s appearance. Both appear in the docket entries once issued.

Orders and judgments

Orders are court directives on a particular motion; judgments end a case. Judgments can be appealed within the statutory window.

Sentencing orders and probations

Sentencing orders specify penalties. Probation orders set supervision conditions, reporting schedules, and revocation triggers.

Legal Access, Privacy, and Kentucky Public Records Laws Governing Bardstown Court Records

Bardstown court records are presumed public under the Kentucky Open Records Act (KRS 61.870–61.884) and the Administrative Office of the Courts Public Access Policy. Specific categories (juvenile, expunged, sealed, and certain family records) are restricted by statute.

Kentucky Open Records Act and Court File Accessibility

Statutory framework: KRS 61.870–61.884

The Open Records Act establishes a strong presumption of public access to government records. Any person may request access; the agency must respond within five business days. The Act lists narrow exemptions, including active law enforcement records, juvenile files, and sealed records.

AOC Public Access Policy

The Administrative Office of the Courts issues a binding Public Access Policy that governs courthouse access, document redaction, and electronic records. The Policy was updated in 2025 and continues to favor disclosure while protecting sensitive information.

Tiered access system

Kentucky uses three tiers: fully public (most dockets and orders), limited (juvenile, mental health, sealed files), and sealed (only shown to parties by court order). Each tier defines who may view the record and under what conditions.

Sealed and Expunged Bardstown Court Records

KRS 431.073 expungement eligibility

Kentucky’s general expungement statute (KRS 431.073) allows eligible misdemeanor and felony cases to be sealed after a waiting period. Eligible cases include certain non-violent convictions, dismissals, and acquittals meeting statutory thresholds.

KRS 218A.275 conditional discharge / diversion expungement

Substance-related diversion cases that end successfully may be expunged under KRS 218A.275. Petitioners file in the Nelson County Circuit Court where the original case was decided.

How expungement affects search results

Once the court grants expungement, KyCourtNet removes the case from public view, and third-party aggregators typically follow within thirty to sixty days. Police records may still exist, but the court record no longer appears.

Restricted Bardstown Court Records

Juvenile court records (KRS 610.320)

Juvenile cases (other than serious felonies certified to Circuit Court) are confidential. Only the juvenile, parents, attorneys, and authorized agencies can view them.

Grand jury proceedings (KRS 61.814)

Grand jury testimony, votes, and deliberations remain secret. Indictments, once returned, become public records.

Mental health commitment records

Involuntary commitment files are restricted to the patient, treating providers, the court, and certain agencies.

Trade secrets, victims of certain offenses, and adoption records

Court records may seal identifying information for victims of sex offenses or domestic violence. Adoption files stay sealed under KRS 199.570. Trade secrets submitted as evidence can also be shielded.

Penalties for Misuse of Bardstown Court Records

KRS 61.872 misuses

Knowingly denying a legitimate Open Records request can trigger civil penalties. Conversely, using records to harass, stalk, or commit identity theft violates other Kentucky statutes.

FCRA violations for consumer reporting use

Using third-party aggregator data for hiring, tenancy, or credit decisions without a compliant background check violates the Fair Credit Reporting Act. Violators face FTC enforcement and private lawsuits.

Defamation and negligence risks for publishers

Publishing outdated or inaccurate court information can create defamation exposure. Publishers should verify data, update regularly, and provide correction channels.

Bardstown Court Records vs. Other Kentucky County Court Records: Comparative Analysis

Bardstown (Nelson County) court records share Kentucky’s statewide KyCourtNet infrastructure. Jurisdictional differences (case volume, judges, docket conventions, and clerk fees) distinguish them from larger counties like Jefferson (Louisville) or Fayette (Lexington).

Bardstown vs. Louisville (Jefferson County) Court Records

Bardstown vs. Lexington (Fayette County) Court Records

Lexington operates a unified district/circuit court model under one administrative team. Its records feed the same KyCourtNet portal, yet the Fayette County Clerk’s site offers extra search filters (such as attorney bar number). Bardstown uses the standard state interface without local enhancements, so searches require a few more filters to pin down results.

Bardstown vs. Rural Kentucky Counties (Hancock, Washington, Marion)

Shared 34th Judicial Circuit implications

Nelson, Washington, and Marion counties share the 34th Judicial Circuit. Some Bardstown filings may involve defendants from neighboring counties, and vice versa, so a court case search across the region helps produce complete results.

Cross-county case filings

Civil cases often name out-of-county defendants, and venue disputes may move cases across county lines. Always confirm the filing county before drawing conclusions about a Bardstown court record.

Best Practices and Expert Tips for Reliable Bardstown Court Record Searches

A methodical approach yields the most accurate Bardstown court record results. Use official portals, document your searches, and verify every match.

Gather Background Details Before Searching

Note the full legal name, date of birth (if available), and approximate filing year. Knowing whether the case is criminal or civil narrows results quickly. If you have a docket number from a citation or court notice, search by number first: it is the most direct path.

Use Multiple Search Variations

Run searches with and without middle initials, with former married names, and with business entity identifiers. Surnames repeat often in Nelson County, so a year filter helps isolate the right party.

Verify Results Across Sources

Confirm every aggregator hit against KyCourtNet or a clerk-certified copy before relying on it. Differences may stem from indexing lags or duplicate records.

Document Your Findings

Save screenshots with timestamps, note the URL, and retain a copy of any certified document you receive. A clear paper trail supports later audits, legal filings, or corrections.

Respect Privacy and Legal Limits

Some files (juvenile, sealed, expunged) cannot lawfully be viewed. Misusing public records can lead to civil or criminal liability under Kentucky and federal law.

Common Errors and How to Avoid Them

The most common mistakes in a Bardstown court record search come from overlooked dockets and outdated third-party data. Fix them with structured searches and timely verification.

Searching Only One Database

Aggregrator platforms miss some filings, and KyCourtNet may omit microfilm records. Use both, plus the clerk’s office, for full coverage.

Ignoring Municipal Court Records

City ordinance cases live in Bardstown Municipal Court, not on KyCourtNet. Contact the municipal clerk for those files.

Confusing Civil and Criminal Dockets

Civil cases and criminal cases sometimes share names with state statutes. Read the docket header carefully to confirm whether the dispute is criminal (CR) or civil (CI).

Trusting Old Aggregator Snapshots

Third-party platforms refresh on different schedules. Always re-check current data on KyCourtNet before making any decision.

Data Security and Privacy When Requesting Bardstown Court Records

Treat court records the same way you treat sensitive personal data. Limit exposure, secure storage, and responsible sharing.

Protect Personally Identifiable Information

Court files include Social Security numbers (in older filings), financial account numbers, and medical details. Redact these elements when sharing or storing documents.

Secure Your Devices and Accounts

Use multi-factor authentication on any aggregator account that holds search history. Lock paper files in a safe location and shred outdated printouts.

Understand Re-Publication Rules

Once you obtain a public record, you may share it for lawful purposes. Re-publishing sealed or expunged information, however, violate

Frequently Asked Questions About Bardstown Court Records

Bardstown court records give the public a transparent look at the local justice system. These files cover criminal cases, civil disputes, family law matters, and traffic citations filed in Nelson County. People search these records to verify backgrounds, confirm legal histories, settle estate questions, and protect personal interests. Recent cases sit on the Kentucky Court of Justice website for free. Older files remain available through the circuit clerk’s office. Knowing how the system works saves time, reduces frustration, and helps you make smarter legal and financial decisions.

What Are Bardstown Court Records and What Do They Contain?

Bardstown court records are official files from Nelson County Circuit Court, Nelson County District Court, and Bardstown Municipal Court. They contain criminal indictments, civil lawsuits, divorce decrees, custody orders, traffic citations, probate matters, and sentencing orders. These files document every case handled by local judges across all three court levels. Residents, employers, and family members search them for background checks, genealogy research, credit checks, and lease due diligence. Some people verify legal history before signing contracts or finalizing adoptions.

How Can I Access Bardstown Court Records Online?

You can access Bardstown court records through the Kentucky Court of Justice website, which hosts a public case search portal. Start by visiting kycourts.gov and clicking the Court Records link. Next, enter the party name, case number, or attorney bar number in the search fields. Then, filter results by county to narrow your Bardstown court case lookup. Most civil, criminal, and traffic cases from Nelson County appear within 24 hours of filing. Some older cases require an in-person request at the Nelson County Justice Center.

Are Bardstown Public Court Records Free to View?

Yes, basic Bardstown public court records are free to view through the Kentucky Court of Justice online portal. You can search cases, view docket entries, and read minute entries at no charge. Certified copies of Bardstown court documents still cost $5 per document, with an additional $5 authentication fee. You must request certified copies in person at the circuit clerk’s office or by mail with a self-addressed envelope. Some sealed records require a court order before release.

What Types of Cases Appear in Bardstown Judicial Records?

Bardstown judicial records cover three court levels. First, the Nelson County Circuit Court handles felonies, divorces, land disputes, and estates worth over $5,000. Second, the Nelson County District Court manages misdemeanors, small claims, evictions, and traffic violations. Third, Bardstown Municipal Court handles city ordinance violations, local misdemeanors, and code enforcement issues. Each level creates Bardstown court documents with unique case numbers. Use the offense type to pick the right search portal.

Can Anyone Perform a Bardstown Court Case Search?

Most people can run a Bardstown court case search since Kentucky law treats these files as public. You need a name, case number, or filing date to begin your Bardstown court record lookup. Lawyers, employers, landlords, and private citizens all use the same online portal. Sealed records, juvenile cases, and certain family court matters stay hidden from public view. You must submit a motion to the presiding judge and show good cause to access those protected Bardstown court records.

How Do I Find Bardstown Court Documents from Older Cases?

Older Bardstown court documents from before 1978 exist only in physical files at the Nelson County Justice Center. First, call the circuit clerk at 502-348-3648 to confirm the case exists. Next, visit during business hours with a photo ID. Then, fill out a records request form at the front desk. Finally, pay the per-page copy fee. The clerk pulls the file within one business day. A local title search company can retrieve the records on your behalf.