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Board Records – Board of County Commissioners Meetings

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1. How can I obtain an audio recording of a meeting?

To hear and see videos from Board of County Commissioners meetings, click on the BOCC website, then click on Minutes under the Documents section.

If you need an audio recording from another meeting, email board.records@pascoclerk.com 

2. How can I watch Board of County Commissioners meetings?

Watching BOCC meetings is easy! Click on the BOCC website, find the meeting date, and click on Minutes under the Documents section.

3. Where can I find agendas and meeting minutes?

To find agendas and meeting minutes: 

• Click on the BOCC website.
• Select the type of meeting under Meetings & Agendas.
• Find the meeting date. 
• Click on Minutes under the Documents section.

4. Where can I view documentation from the Board of County Commissioners meetings?

To view BOCC documents: 

• Click on the BOCC website.
• Find the meeting date.
• Click Minutes under the Documents section.
• Scroll and click on the item you are looking for.
• Attachments will appear on the left-hand side of the screen.

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Board Records – Petitions

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1. Can I file a petition online?

Online submission is not an option. We accept only those petitions filed in person at the East Pasco Government Center in Dade City or the West Pasco Government Center in New Port Richey.

2. Do you offer telephone hearings?

Telephone hearings are not offered.

3. Is there a filing fee to file a petition?

There is a $15 nonrefundable filing fee per petition. Homestead Denial Petitions do not require a filing fee.

4. Where can I file a petition?

You may file a petition in person or by mail at the East Pasco Government Center in Dade City or the West Pasco Government Center in New Port Richey.

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Budget General

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1. When is the budget submitted?

The Board-related budget request is submitted to the Pasco County Board of County Commissioners by May 1 of each year. The court-related budget is submitted to the Clerks of Court Operations Corporation by June 1.

2. When is the final budget document published?

A comprehensive budget document is prepared and submitted to the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) annually on a date that changes according to budget adoption and audit completion. The document usually publishes between mid-December and the end of February.

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Civil – Family Court

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1. What is Family Law Court?

Family Law Court is the area dealing with family relations which includes: dissolution of marriage (divorce), adoption, paternity, name change, custody, child support, and protective injunctions.

2. What is the Florida State Disbursement Unit?

The Florida State Disbursement Unit (FLSDU)  was established by the State of Florida for central receipt processing.  Support payments throughout Florida are sent to one central address in Tallahassee.  A database of information from each county in Florida is maintained at this central location.  The payment information is then electronically transmitted back to the individual county where the Clerk & Comptroller's official payment record is updated to reflect the date and amount paid.

3. What types of cases are processed by the Florida State Disbursement Unit?

The following case types are processed by the Florida State Disbursement Unit:

• All child support payments subject to income deduction orders
• All child support payments subject to enforcement by the Florida Department of Revenue
• All child support payments that have previously been ordered to be paid to the Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller (effective April 11, 2005)

4. How can I contact the Florida State Disbursement Unit?

You may contact the Florida State Disbursement Unit by:

• Visiting their website: Florida Department of Revenue
• Contacting their customer service department at (877) 769-0251
• Mail: P.O. Box 8500, Tallahassee, FL 32314-8500

5. What information is needed to process a support payment through Florida State Disbursement Unit?

The following information is needed to process support payments through the Florida State Disbursement Unit?

• County Number (Pasco number is 51)
• Pasco County case number from your court order or final judgment
• Name of person paying child support and social security number
• Name of custodial parent
• Check or money order made payable to State Disbursement Unit

Payments should be mailed to the State Disbursement Unit, P.O. Box 8500, Tallahassee, FL 32314-8500

6. How do I enforce child support?

It is recommended that you contact the Florida Department of Revenue, Child Support Enforcement Unit at (850) 488-KIDS (5437) for assistance in collecting court ordered support OR you may contact a private attorney.

The Clerk & Comptroller is not involved in the enforcement process for individuals not paying the court ordered amounts.  The Clerk's role is receipting, disbursing, and maintaining payment records.

7. How do I provide an updated address for my court case?

You must notify the Clerk & Comptroller's Office in writing of any address changes.  There is a Change of Address form that can be completed, or you may use your own form/paper.  The change of address request should include the following information:

• Case Number and Division
• Your name
• Your new address
• Your old address
• Your signature and date

The request can be filed with Clerk & Comptroller's office by mail or in person at one of our Court Operations locations.

8. Where can I get Family Law forms?

The Clerk & Comptroller's office contains a Legal Resource Center which offers several Family Law Packets.  These packets can be purchased at one of our Legal Resource Centers in person, or you may visit the Legal Resource Center Civil/Family Law Forms web page to view and print the forms.  

You may also visit the Florida State Courts website or the Sixth Judicial Circuit Court's website for locally approved forms and other general information.

9. What is the difference between Regular Dissolution of Marriage and Simplified Dissolution of Marriage?

A Regular Dissolution of Marriage case is filed if:

• You and your spouse have a dependent minor child together, or 
• If the wife is pregnant, or
• If one spouse is not in agreement with the divorce

A Simplified Dissolution of Marriage case may be filed if:

• Each spouse agrees the marriage cannot be saved
• There are no minor children of the marriage and the wife is not pregnant
• Each spouse has mutually agreed upon how the property and debts are to be divided
• Neither spouse is seeking support (alimony or maintenance)
• Neither spouse is seeking financial information other than what is provided in the standardized financial affidavit
• Each spouse is willing to give up their right to a trial and their right to appeal the outcome and all previously agreed upon matters
• Each spouse is willing to come to the Clerk & Comptroller's Office to sign the petition on the day of filing
• Each spouse is willing to attend the same final hearing

10. Where can I complete the Parent Education and Family Stabilization Course?

You may visit the Florida Department of Children and Families website  for a listing of approved course providers in the state of Florida.

11. What is the Florida Putative Father Registry?

Florida Statutes 63.053 and 63.054 provides an "unmarried biological father" the opportunity to assert his claim of paternity by filing the Florida Putative Father Registry Claim of Paternity form.   You may visit the Florida Department of Health's website for more information on the Florida Putative Father Registry.

12. What is Unified Family Court (UFC)?

The Unified Family Court Program (UFC) is a special grant funded project in the Pasco County Court System dedicated to the proposition of one family, one judge, and one courthouse location.  Case types included in this program include: child support, delinquency, dependency, dissolution of marriage, domestic violence, and paternity.  A family whose members are involved in any of these case types are eligible for reassignment to the Unified Family Court Program.  Once assigned, they are guaranteed that all their family law related cases will be managed by a UFC judge.

13. What if I can't pay the filing fee?

You may complete and file an Application for Determination of Civil Indigent Status with the Clerk & Comptroller, Civil Department.  If found indigent, the filing fee will be waived.  If you are found not indigent, you may enter into a Payment Plan Contract.  The Payment Plan Contract allows you to pay the filing fee in smaller, monthly payments.  A service fee of $25 will be added upon the entrance of the Payment Plan Contract.

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Civil – Foreclosures

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1. What are the statutory sales fees for a judicial sale?

The statutory fee for a judicial sale is $70. The statutory fee for the electronic sale is $70. These fees must be paid to the Clerk & Comptroller before the sale. The sale will be cancelled if these fees are not paid.

2. Where are foreclosure sales held?

Pasco County judicial foreclosure sales are held online on the Pasco Realauction website. 

3. Who can bid on the properties?

Anyone may bid on a property; however, bidders must register on the Pasco Realauction website and place a deposit with the Clerk & Comptroller before the sale.

4. How much should I place on deposit?

Potential bidders should place on deposit adequate funds for anticipated bidding for future dates. Before participating in a sale, the bidder must have on deposit with the Clerk & Comptroller a minimum amount that is at least 5% of the estimated high bid for each property the bidder anticipates winning at the sale. The amount of the deposit will be applied to the winning bidder's final bid amount.

5. Can the Clerk provide assistance with the sale?

Pursuant to Chapter 45, Florida Statutes, the Clerk & Comptroller will conduct the judicial sale after all legal requirements have been met. By law, the Clerk & Comptroller's office cannot provide legal advice or otherwise tell you how to proceed with your case. Since judicial sales are advertised and open to the public, you may go on the Pasco Realauction Website in advance to observe a sale taking place.  This will give you an idea of what to expect.

6. What forms of payment are accepted for the deposit?

Funds placed on deposit may be made by ACH (electronic check), wire transfer, cash, or certified cashier's check. Note: ACH deposits require four full business days to settle in the Clerk & Comptroller's account. Wire transfers require at least one full business day to settle in the Clerk & Comptroller's account.  Deposits made via ACH or wire transfer must be settled and cleared in the Clerk & Comptroller's account before the start of a sale to bid on a property. Deposits made by cash or certified cashier's check must be delivered to the Clerk & Comptroller's Office no later than 5 p.m. ET the business day before the foreclosure sale.

7. What forms of payment are accepted for the final payment?

Final payment may be made by wire transfer, cash, certified cashier's check, or by transferring funds from the bidder's Realauction deposit account via the Realauction Website. All forms of payment must be received no later than 4 p.m. ET the day of the foreclosure sale.

8. When will a Certificate of Title be issued?

When the sale is completed, and there are no objections to the sale or other pending matters with the Court that are related to the sale, the Clerk & Comptroller will issue the Certificate of Title that is provided by the purchaser, after 10 full days have elapsed from the date of the Certificate of sale (or as otherwise directed by the Court).  The Certificate of Title is recorded and transfers ownership of the property in the official records.

9. How do I claim surplus funds?

A person claiming a right to funds remaining after the sale must file a claim with the Clerk & Comptroller no later than 60 days after the sale.  A statutory reopen fee of $50 must accompany the claim if a case is in a closed status greater than 90 days or a reclosed status greater than 30 days.

10. What if I can't pay the filing fee?

You may complete and file an Application for Determination of Civil Indigent Status with the Clerk & Comptroller, Civil Department.  If found indigent, the filing fee will be waived.  If you are found not indigent, you may enter into a Payment Plan Contract.  The Payment Plan Contract allows you to pay the filing fee in smaller, monthly payments.  A service fee of $25 will be added upon the entrance of the Payment Plan Contract.

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Civil – Guardianships

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1. What is a guardian?

A guardian is a person appointed by the Court to act on behalf of a ward's person or property, or both.

2. What is a professional guardian?

A professional guardian is a person or agency receiving compensation for three or more wards, excluding family members.

3. Why do I need an attorney?

Florida Probate Rule 5.030 requires every guardian to be represented by an attorney admitted to practice law in Florida, unless the guardian is an attorney admitted to practice law in Florida.

4. Where can I get a copy of the Department of Children and Families release form?

This form is available from the Sixth Judicial Court's website. 

5. What is an initial report?

For a guardian of a person, the initial report is the Initial Plan, covering the period from the date the Letters of Guardianship were signed to the end of the month of the following year in which the Letters of Guardianship were signed. An Initial Plan executed June 13, 2019, would be valid through June 30, 2020.

For a guardian of property, the initial report is the Verified Inventory. This initial report is due within 60 days from the date the Letters of Guardianship are signed.

6. What are Letters of Guardianship?

Letters of Guardianship give the guardian authority to act on behalf of the ward.

7. What is an annual report?

For a guardian of a person, the annual report is the Annual Plan, which covers the person for the forthcoming fiscal year.

For a guardian of property, the annual report is the Annual Accounting, covering the period from the date the Letters of Guardianship were signed to the end of the month of the following year in which Letters of Guardianship were signed. Thereafter, the Annual Accounting would cover the period for the past fiscal year.

Annual Accounting Plan is due between 60 and 90 days prior to the beginning date of the plan.

8. Am I required to file my reports on certain forms?

Administrative Order 2019-005  PA/PI-CIR directs the guardian to file on Court-approved forms.

9. Where can I get Court-approved forms?

Forms are available from the Sixth Judicial Court's website. 

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Civil – Landlord/tenant evictions

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1. How do I file a landlord/tenant eviction?

You must determine, prepare, and file the appropriate complaint with the Clerk & Comptroller. The complaint filed will be based on the actions you wish taken by the Court (for example: possession of the property, demand for rent due, etc.). Include a copy of the notice you provided the tenant. The filing fee for an eviction case is $185 for County Court evictions and $400 for Circuit Court evictions.  A case number will be provided by the Clerk & Comptroller upon receipt of the required documents and filing fee.

2. What is a residential landlord/tenant eviction?

A residential landlord/tenant action applies to the rental of noncommercial dwelling unit with or without a rental agreement. It involves an action filed by a landlord against a tenant or a tenant against a landlord for common disputes dealing with payment of rent and/or noncompliance or breach of a lease or rental agreement. 

Chapter 83 of the Florida Statutes provides general information on landlord/tenant actions. Landlord actions typically involve nonpayment of rent and recovering possession of the rental property. Carefully review this section of the law before starting any legal action.

3. Where can I get forms for a landlord/tenant eviction?

Landlord/tenant eviction packets are available for purchase at the Legal Resource Centers in Dade City and New Port Richey.  Forms also are available online.

4. What do I do after the eviction summons has been served?

The tenant must comply with the instructions on the summons and file an original answer to your summons with the Clerk & Comptroller with copies to you within five days of receipt of the summons, not including weekends or legal holidays.

The defendant may file an answer to your complaint/summons and deposit rent monies into the Court Registry. You then will need to set your case for a hearing with the Court. You may submit your request for a hearing in writing and file it with the Clerk & Comptroller, who will forward it with your court file to the assigned Judge. You will need to bring a blank copy of a judgment to the hearing for the Court's ruling and signature.

If the defendant fails to respond, you may complete and file with the Clerk & Comptroller a Motion for Clerk & Comptroller's Default and the appropriate judgment form. These forms are contained in the Landlord/Tenant packet. The Court will either set the case for hearing or grant the landlord possession of the property. If the judge grants the landlord possession of the property, you may ask the Clerk & Comptroller to issue a Writ of Possession.

5. How do I get a writ of possession?

After the Judge has granted possession of the property, you may request the Clerk & Comptroller to prepare a writ of possession. You must remit a fee of $90 made payable to the Pasco County Sheriff in the form of business check, money order, or cashier’s check. The Clerk & Comptroller will forward your paperwork with the check to the Sheriff. The Sheriff’s Office will contact you and post the writ on the property. If you prefer to satisfy the $90 fee via credit card, payment must be made at a designated Pasco Sheriff’s office location.

6. What if I can't pay the filing fee?

You may complete and file an Application for Determination of Civil Indigent Status with the Clerk & Comptroller, Civil Department.  If found indigent, the filing fee will be waived.  If you are found not indigent, you may enter into a Payment Plan Contract.  The Payment Plan Contract allows you to pay the filing fee in smaller, monthly payments.  A service fee of $25 will be added upon the entrance of the Payment Plan Contract.

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Civil – Mental Health

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1. What is a Baker Act?

Provided for in Chapter 394.451, Florida Statutes, a Baker Act is shorthand for the Florida Mental Health Act, which does not authorize provision of medical treatment. Mental illness encompasses impairments of the mental or emotional processes that control an individual's actions or the ability to perceive or understand reality, interfering with the individual's ability to meet the ordinary demands of living.

Mental illness excludes retardation and/or developmental disability, intoxication, and/or substance abuse. For more information relating to the Baker Act (or to find the information in other languages), visit Myflfamilies.com.

Other statutes or alternatives are in place to address situations where the Baker Act is inappropriate. Contact a mental health facility or support service provider for guidance. Facilities include residential treatment services, outpatient mental health clinics, hospitals, and multiservice organizations. To assist your search, visit myflfamilies.com Health and Human Services..

2. Whom may I contact to file a Baker Act?

Contact the Clerk & Comptroller's Office in the county where the person you are requesting to have examined is located.

3. How long does a Baker Act take to file?

Petitioners are required to fill out paperwork that could take approximately 30 to 45 minutes to complete. The Clerk & Comptroller is prohibited by law from providing legal advice. The Clerk & Comptroller's Office will report the Court's response either before 5 p.m. or shortly afterward, depending on the Court's calendar.

4. Where is the individual taken for treatment when a Baker Act is filed?

If the individual meets the criteria under Chapter 394.463, Florida Statutes, and the Court signs an order to have the person involuntarily examined, (s)he will be taken to the nearest receiving facility.

5. What is a Marchman Act?

This act is known as the "Hal S. Marchman Alcohol and other Drug Services Act of 1993" provides for emergency assistance and temporary detention for individuals requiring substance abuse evaluation and treatment in the state of Florida.  

6. Whom may I contact to file a Marchman Act?

Contact the Clerk & Comptroller's Office in the county where the person you are requesting to have examined is located.

7. How long does a Marchman Act take to file?

Petitioners are required to fill out paperwork that could take approximately 30 to 45 minutes to complete. The Clerk & Comptroller is prohibited by law from providing legal advice. The Clerk & Comptroller's Office will report the Court's response either before 5 p.m. or shortly afterward, depending on the Court's calendar.

8. Where is the individual taken for treatment when a Marchman Act is filed?

If the individual meets the criteria under Chapter 394.463, Florida Statutes, and the Court signs an order to have the person involuntarily examined, (s)he will be taken to the nearest receiving facility.

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Civil – Probate/Estates

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1. What is meant by "probating a will"?

"Probating a will" means taking the legal steps necessary to assure a will is valid and to admit the will to probate.

2. Is there a fee for depositing a will? What does that mean?

There is no fee. To deposit a will means to place it with the Clerk for safekeeping.

3. May a will be deposited with the Court for safekeeping if the testator (will maker) is still alive?

No, it may not.

4. Why must the Clerk keep the original? What if I need the original?

The law requires the original to be placed on deposit. The Clerk can make a certified copy of the will for a fee, which, for all legal purposes, takes the place of the original.

5. What is meant by "estate"?

"Estate" refers to all property of a deceased person subject to a probate action.

6. What is meant by "probating an estate"?

"Probating an estate" is a legal process which determines the value of a deceased person's property and its distribution to heirs pursuant to Florida law.

7. Where do probate proceedings take place?

Proceedings take place in the Circuit Court of the county where the decedent was domiciled or owned property.

8. Why is probate necessary?

Probate provides a method of converting assets to cash to be distributed to beneficiaries, or to pay creditors/taxes. Also, probate legally transfers ownership of real property. Probate determines who is entitled to share in the estate and to distribute the property to the proper parties.

9. What happens if a person dies and has left no will?

Without a will, the deceased's property is distributed in accordance with Florida law.

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Civil – Protective Injunctions

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1. Who can file for a Protective Injunction?

A Petition can be filed by anyone who is the victim of any act of domestic violence or has reasonable cause to believe he or she is in imminent danger of becoming the victim of any act of domestic violence.  

2. Where can I get the forms for a Protective Injunction?

Protective Injunction forms and written instructions are available at either of the Clerk & Comptroller's Court Operations locations .  Forms are also available at the local domestic violence shelters.  Online forms are available on our Protective Injunctions web page. 

3. What are the different types of Protective Injunction cases?

The different types of Protective Injunction cases are:

• Protective Injunction against Domestic Violence (with children)
• Protective Injunction against Domestic Violence (without children)
• Protective Injunction against Dating Violence
• Protective Injunction against Repeat Violence
• Protective Injunction against Sexual Violence
• Protective Injunction against Stalking

For more information regarding the different types of Protective Injunctions, please visit our Types of Petitions page.

4. Where can I find a Domestic Violence Shelter?

For information on finding a Domestic Violence Shelter in your area, visit the Sunrise of Pasco County Domestic Violence Center or the Salvation Army Domestic Violence Center.  

You may also contact the Sunrise Domestic Violence Center at (352) 521-3120 in Dade City or the Salvation Army Domestic Violence Center at (727) 856-5797 in New Port Richey.

5. How much does it cost to file for a Protective Injunction?

There is no fee to file a Petition for Protective Injunction.  There is also no charge for the packets.

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Civil – Small Claims

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1. What is a small claims case?

A small claims case is a legal action filed in County Court to settle a claim or minor legal dispute in which demand for monies, or the value of property, does not exceed $8,000, excluding costs, interest, and attorney fees.  

2. What is the fee to file a small claims case?

See the Small Claims County Filing Fees (PDF) reference for the proper fees.

3. What forms are required to file a small claims case?

The forms and documents needed to complete and/or provide to file your small claims case are: Statement of Claim and any documents relating to your case (such as: receipts, contracts, invoices, photographs, law enforcement reports, and promissory notes). For all documents you file to open your case, you must provide a copy for each defendant. The original document is maintained in the court file.

4. Can the Clerk's Office assist me with my small claims case?

Florida Small Claims Rules permit the Clerk & Comptroller to provide general information and assistance in preparing a statement of claim and other documents needed to be filed in the action. The Clerk & Comptroller's Office will provide the necessary forms and instructions to file your claim. Please note: Florida law prohibits the Clerk & Comptroller from providing legal or financial advice.

5. What is a Writ of Garnishment?

A Writ of Garnishment is an order that allows a creditor to seize money owed to the judgment debtor by third parties

6. What is a Writ of Replevin?

A Writ of Replevin is an order to recover personal property that has been wrongful taken or detained.

7. What if I can't pay the filing fee?

You may complete and file an Application for Determination of Civil Indigent Status with the Clerk & Comptroller, Civil Department.  If found indigent, the filing fee will be waived.  If you are found not indigent, you may enter into a Payment Plan Contract.  The Payment Plan Contract allows you to pay the filing fee in smaller, monthly payments.  A service fee of $25 will be added upon the entrance of the Payment Plan Contract.

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Civil General

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1. What Is a civil judgment?

A civil judgment refers to a noncriminal legal matter. It is a decision by a court, or other tribunal, that resolves a controversy between parties. Civil judgments are recorded in the County's official records.

2. What is a civil action?

A civil action is a non-criminal case in which one private individual or business sues another person or business.

3. What is the difference between County Civil and Circuit Civil?

County Civil Court has jurisdiction in cases greater than $5,000 and up to $15,000. Circuit Civil Court has jurisdiction in cases greater than $15,000.

4. What if I can't pay the filing fee?

You may complete and file an Application for Determination of Civil Indigent Status with the Clerk & Comptroller, Civil Department.  If found indigent, the filing fee will be waived.  If you are found not indigent, you may enter into a Payment Plan Contract.  The Payment Plan Contract allows you to pay the filing fee in smaller, monthly payments.  A service fee of $25 will be added upon the entrance of the Payment Plan Contract.

5. What is a civil Complaint?

A Civil Complaint is a legal document that usually begins a civil lawsuit. It states the alleged facts and identifies the action the court is asked to take.

6. What is a civil Counterclaim?

A civil Counterclaim is a claim made by the defendant in a civil lawsuit against the plaintiff. In essence, a counter lawsuit within a lawsuit. 

7. What is the difference between a subpoena and a summons?

A subpoena is a command to a person to appear and testify in a specific proceeding.  A summons is a document signed by a deputy clerk ordering a person to appear before the court. 

8. What is a Writ of Garnishment?

A writ of garnishment is an order that allows a creditor to seize money owed to the judgment debtor by third parties

9. What is a Writ of Replevin?

A Writ of Replevin is an order to recover personal property that has been wrongful taken or detained.

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Criminal – Traffic

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1. What is a criminal traffic charge?

A criminal traffic charge, such as driving under the influence, requires a court appearance as it carries criminal penalties which may include fines and costs, probation and/or the possibility of a jail term. Payment of the citation cannot be made automatically to the Office of Clerk & Comptroller. Persons charged with a criminal traffic offense shall be sent a notice showing when they must appear in court.

2. What is a civil traffic infraction?

A civil traffic infraction is a noncriminal charge that usually can be disposed of by payment of a civil penalty or an election to attend a defensive driving course. A court appearance is not required, except in cases involving an accident with serious bodily injury or fatality. Payment may be made by mail, in person by visiting one of the Court Operations locations, or by phone.

To pay the citation and elect a defensive driving course online, visit MyFloridaCounty.com. Individuals unable to pay the fine via the Internet may complete the election to attend a driver-improvement course form (PDF) print, and mail or hand-deliver to one of our Court Operations locations.

Note: You are not eligible for defensive driving school if you possess a commercial driver’s license. To view and complete the form, you must have Adobe Acrobat installed on your computer.

3. How soon after issuance must I pay the citation?

Infraction violations must be paid within 30 days from the date the citation was issued.

4. May I use my debit or credit card to satisfy my traffic citation?

If you are charged with a non-criminal traffic violation, you may pay the citation online with a bank issued debit or credit card. If eligible, you may also elect to attend a driver improvement course online, at the time of payment. A 3.5% convenience fee will be assessed by the vendor, MyFloridaCounty.

To pay the citation and elect a defensive driving course online, visit MyFloridaCounty.com.

5. Are there options available other than paying my citation?

Payable civil infractions may be satisfied by entering a plea of not guilty (PDF). You will be notified by mail of your hearing date and time.

Safety Equipment Violations

Have the violation corrected and have the back of the yellow copy of the citation (Faulty Equipment Affidavit of Compliance) signed by the local police department or sheriff's office. Return the signed copy of the affidavit together with the required fee amount due to the Clerk & Comptroller.

Dismissals

If you were charged with failure to carry your driver's license, registration, and/or insurance and these documents were valid at the time the citation was issued, you may present the driver's license, registration, or proof of insurance within 30 calendar days to the Clerk & Comptroller. A dismissal fee will be assessed at that time.

6. What happens if the citation is not paid in a timely fashion?

Failure to pay your citation by the deadline may result in a suspension being entered against your driver's license, subjecting you to additional penalties and possibly affecting your insurance rates.

7. What should I do if I received a collection notice from Linebarger Goggan Blair & Sampson or Penn Credit regarding unpaid traffic fines in Pasco County?

Linebarger Goggan Blair & Sampson and Penn Credit have been retained by the Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller's Office as an agent to collect outstanding traffic fines. Since payment for your traffic citation is past due, your driver's license has been suspended and all enforcement conditions will remain in effect, pursuant to Chapter 318.15, Florida Statutes. 

For instructions and additional information, contact Linebarger Goggan Blair & Sampson at (866) 234-9790 or Penn Credit at (800) 800-3328.

8. What types of cases are heard in Traffic Court?

The Traffic Division of the County Court is set up to hear criminal traffic, civil traffic infractions, and parking citation cases. Criminal traffic cases are heard by County judges; most civil infractions are heard by hearing officers during evening hours. Contested parking citation cases also are heard by hearing officers.

9. How do I enter a not-guilty plea to a civil traffic infraction?

To request a hearing, you must notify the Clerk & Comptroller's Office in writing, within the required time frame of 30 calendar days from the date of issuance of the citation. Your case will be scheduled for a court date and you will be advised when and where you appear. While you citation is pending, you are required to inform the Clerk & Comptroller's Office of any address changes to ensure you received proper notification of your court hearing.

A plea of not guilty form (PDF) is available online. The completed  and signed form must be mailed or hand-delivered to one of our Court Operations locations within the required 30 day time frame. To view and complete the form, you must have Adobe Acrobat installed on your computer.

10. May I plead not guilty to a traffic citation if I live outside Pasco County?

Nonresidents may plead not guilty by completing an Affidavit of Defense (PDF) and filing it with one of our Court Operations locations. A bond must be posted with the Clerk & Comptroller's Office before the affidavit can be reviewed and ruled on by the Court. You will not need to appear before the Court.

To view and complete the form, you must have Adobe Acrobat installed on your computer.

11. Where do I sign up to take a driving course?

Enter "Florida-approved basic improvement course" in your preferred web browser and select from any Florida-approved company.

12. Who will be present at the hearing?

The hearing will be attended by the officer who issued the traffic citation and any other witnesses called by the officer, as well as witnesses you may wish to call to testify on your behalf.

13. What must I do if the Court finds me guilty?

If you are found guilty of a civil traffic infraction, the Court may assess fine and costs, order you to attend a defensive driving course, or impose other penalties. If you fail to pay the fine and costs within the time allotted by the Court, a suspension shall be issued against your driver's license and additional penalties shall be imposed.

14. May the Clerk & Comptroller's Office advise me about points assessed against my license?

Deputy clerks can neither advise you on the number of points assessed against your driving history nor on how points will affect your insurance. These concerns must be addressed to the Florida Department of Transportation and Highway Safety's Division of Motorist Services and/or your insurance agent.

15. What are the fine amounts?

Fines for civil infractions are governed by Florida Statutes. View the most current fine schedule.

16. Where does the fine money go?

Fines are distributed to various funds established by the Legislature, with a portion being returned to the issuing law enforcement agency and a service charge retained by the Clerk & Comptroller.

17. My license is suspended; how can I reinstate my driving privilege?

If your license is suspended for failure to pay a civil infraction in Pasco County, you must pay the fine amount owing plus the assessed delinquency fee. The Clerk & Comptroller's Office can assist you in reinstating your license. If there are other reasons for the suspension, you must visit a driver's license office for reinstatement. A reinstatement fee is required.

18. If I receive a traffic citation in another county, may I take care of it in Pasco County?

Citations must be satisfied in the county in which they were issued.

19. May the Clerk & Comptroller's Office advise me about points assessed against my license?

Deputy clerks can neither advise you on the number of points assessed against your driving history nor on how points will affect your insurance. These concerns must be addressed to the Florida Department of Transportation and Highway Safety's Division of Motorist Services and/or your insurance agent.

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Criminal General

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1. What types of cases are heard in Traffic Court?

The Traffic Division of the County Court is set up to hear criminal traffic, traffic infractions, and parking citation cases. Criminal traffic cases are heard by County judges. Most civil traffic infractions are heard by hearing officers during evening hours. Contested parking citation cases also are heard by hearing officers.

Review Florida Rules of Traffic Court.

2. What is a criminal traffic charge?

A criminal traffic charge, such as driving under the influence, requires a court appearance, because it carries criminal penalties which may include fines and costs, probation and/or the possibility of a jail term. Payment of the citation cannot be automatically made to the Clerk's Office. Persons charged with a criminal offense will be sent a notice showing when they must appear in court.

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Finance General

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1. What is the Clerk's tax-exempt certificate number?

The Clerk's tax-exempt certificate number is #85-8012622293C-6.

2. What is the Clerk's federal tax ID number?

The Clerk's federal tax identification number is #59-6000794.

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General Information

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1. What are your office hours?

Our office hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday, excluding holidays.

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HR General

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1. How do I apply for employment?

The Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller accepts on-line applications for open positions only. Open positions are posted on the Career Opportunities web page. An application must be submitted for each available position for which you wish to apply. A resume may not be submitted in lieu of an application, but may be attached to the application. Applications must be received by 11:59 p.m. on the closing date of the job posting.

Please allow one hour to complete your application, including the application form, attaching your resume and other supporting documents, and answering supplemental questions. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

A majority of our positions require you to complete a supplemental questionnaire. To assist you in completing the questionnaire, click the job you are interested in, click the "Supplemental Questions" tab and then click the "Print Job Information" link.

Veterans and spouses of veterans are encouraged to apply as they may receive preference and priority on employment selection for certain positions. Applicants requesting Veteran's Preference are required to provide supporting documentation.

If you are preference eligible and you believe an agency violated any of your rights under the veterans' preference laws and regulations, you may file a complaint with the Department of Labor's Veteran's Employment and Training Service (VETS). 

For assistance with the application process, please contact Human Resources at (800) 368-2411, ext. 8916. Technical support is available through Neogov at (855) 524-5627.

2. How do I attach a resume, cover letter, or additional information to my application?

You may attach more than one document to the application. It must be in Microsoft Word or Adobe (pdf) format and must be no larger than 1MB. You may also cut and paste, or type text into the ‘Resume’ field of the application.

3. How much employment history should I include in my application?

List your complete employment history for at least ten years starting with your most recent employer. You may need to reflect additional years of employment to substantiate your experience as it relates to the position for which you are applying. List all positions held, including military experience, part-time, summer, and/or volunteer work; do not omit any employers. Explain any gaps in employment. You must include job related duties on your application even if you have included a resume.

4. How can I be notified when a position I am interested in becomes available?

From the Career Opportunities web page, click on the “Request Job Notifications by Category” link. Place a check in the box next to each job category for which you would like to receive email notifications; then fill out the required information in the “Job Interest Card” section, upon completion click the “Submit Request” button. You will receive an email notification each time a position opens with the Pasco County Clerk & Comptroller's office for those categories that match one of the categories you chose. After one year you will need to resubmit the “Request Job Notifications by Category”. A reminder notification email will be sent after eleven (11) months to give you an opportunity to extend your notifications for another year. To change the results, deselect and reselect the categories by using the “Clear All Categories/Select All Categories” links or by clicking on the check boxes.

5. How can I edit or delete information on my on-line job application?

From the Career Opportunities web page, click on the position for which you have applied provided the position is still open. You will be asked to log in; select the position that you wish to edit, then you may edit any section of the application including your resume. After editing, you will need to resubmit your application.

6. What is the selection process?

Generally, once the position closes, applications are reviewed against the minimum requirements of the position. Only applicants that meet the minimum qualifications will advance. The hiring department will review additional qualifications and experience, such as those gathered from the supplemental questions, resume, or other supporting documents.  Candidates selected for an interview will be contacted by the hiring department. All candidates participating in the interview process will be notified of the outcome. The selection process may take several weeks. All offers of employment are conditional upon an applicant’s successful completion of a background investigation, controlled substance drug test, and nicotine test.

7. What do I do if I experience technical difficulties?

Please allow yourself plenty of time to apply online in case of technical difficulties with the system. Do not wait until the last day, in case you need assistance. Should you encounter technical difficulties, please contact Neogov at (855) 524-5627 for assistance.

8. How do I check the status of my application?

Go to www.governmentjobs.com and click on the “Career Seekers” tab. Enter your user name and password. Click on “Application Status” and you will see the list of positions for which you have applied and the status of each application.

9. How will I be notified if I am not selected for an interview?

You will receive an e-mail notice after the recruitment cycle is completed.

10. Is there an application deadline?

The closing date is listed on the Career Opportunities web page. Applications must be received by 11:59 p.m. on the closing date listed on the job announcement. Once the position closes, it will be removed from the website and applications will not be accepted. Some job opportunities list “Continuous” under the closing date. These opportunities remain open until filled.

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IG General

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1. How do I report suspected fraud, waste, or abuse?

The Division of Inspector General is responsible for the maintenance of a fraud, waste, and abuse hotline. The “I Look 4 Pasco” hotline provides a mechanism for teammates/employees of the Clerk & Comptroller and the Board of County Commissioners to report suspected fraud, waste, or abuse of Clerk & Comptroller and County resources. We strive to preserve the public trust in government.

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Official Records – Fraud Prevention

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1. How do I sign up for the Fraud Alert subscription service?

Signing up for this service is easy! Simply sign up on the property fraud alert website or by calling 800-747-4600.

2. What if I received a Fraudulent Alert notification?

Do your homework! If you have received a fraudulent alert notification, that means a document was recorded in your name.

1. Perform an official records search to check and see if all the documents recorded in your name are valid (notice of commencements, marriage licenses, etc. can trigger an alert)
2. If a document recorded in your name is fraudulent, call the Pasco County Sheriff's Office non-emergency phone number 727-847-8102.

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Official Records – Marriage Licenses

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1. Can I get married at the Clerk's Office?

Our Office does not perform wedding ceremonies. However, a list of registered officiants is available.

2. How do I waive the three-day waiting period for a marriage license?

There are two ways to do this.

1. Sign up for a premarital course from a registered provider AND get a reduced marriage license fee of $61 with proof of completion.
2. Petition the court for a hardship waiver due to an extenuating circumstance.*

 *The extenuating circumstance is decided by a judge, who will either approve or deny the hardship waiver.

Please note: Those with out of state IDs automatically qualify for the waiver.

3. What are the requirements for applying for a marriage license?

To obtain a marriage license application, the following are required:

1. Valid picture ID (U.S. passport, government issued ID, driver's license, military ID).
2. Knowledge of your Social Security number (card not required).
3. The month/day/year of last marriage, divorce or widowed date (if applicable).

4. What is the fee for a marriage license?

The fee for a marriage license is $86, payable by check, cash, credit, or debit (3.5% service charge applies). The fee can be reduced by completion of an approved marriage counseling program.

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Official Records – Passports

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1. Are there any special requirements for a minor's passport?

Passport applications for minors:

1. Must be in person.
2. Both parents present or Parental Consent Form DS-3053 signed & notarized.
3. Copy of non-appearing parents valid ID (front & back).

2. Can I obtain a passport photo at your office?

Absolutely! The fee for a passport photo at our office is $16.00. No appointment necessary!

3. Do I need to make an appointment to obtain a passport?

You never need an appointment to obtain a passport in our office. Simply come into one of our two locations during office hours. Services are provided first come, first served.

4. How do I renew my passport?

Renewing your passport is easy! In most cases, if your passport was expired for less than 5 years you can renew through the mail. However for minors, passport renewals must be done in person at our office.

To renew your application through the mail, simply pick up a passport renewal application at our office, https://travel.state.gov, or your nearest post office location. Simply review the directions on the passport renewal application and submit your passport book, passport photo & check or money order accordingly.

5. How long will it take to get my passport?

Visit the U.S. Department of State website for current processing times.

Current Processing times

6. What are the requirements for applying for a passport?

In most scenarios, the following is required for a passport application:

1. Valid ID (U.S. passport, government employee ID, driver's license, military ID, certificate of naturalization)
2. Must have a check or money order for each passport application, payable to the U.S. Department of State (Adult: $130.00, Minor: $100.00)
3. Birth certificate, old passport book and/or certificate of naturalization
4. Passport photo ($16.00)  
5. $35.00 Application fee; paid by separate check, cash, debit (3.5% service charge applies), etc.

7. What is the passport fee for an adult?

$130.00; payable by check or money order only.

8. What is the passport fee for a minor?

$100.00; payable by check or money order only.

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Official Records – Recording

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1. What are your standard recording fees?

First Page: $10.00

Additional Pages: $8.50

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Pasco H.E.A.R.T. 2.0

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1. How do I apply?

Helping with Emergency Assistance Relief for Tenants (H.E.A.R.T.) will provide assistance to renters with funds distributed by the U.S. Treasury to Pasco County. All partner agencies, listed below, are offering to help pay rent and utility bills directly for anyone living in Pasco County who meets the Pasco H.E.A.R.T. Program guidelines.

Bills eligible for payment include:

• Rental (past, current, and future)
• Utility (electric/water)

To qualify for Pasco H.E.A.R.T. 2.0 funding, you must be a U.S. citizen (or have legal status) and Pasco County resident, who meets the income guidelines of 80% or below of the Area Median Income (please see chart) and has been economically impacted by COVID-19. Those households who earn less than 50% of the Area Median Income, as well as, an applicant who has been unemployed for 90 days or more will be prioritized. The agency will reach out to you explaining the paperwork required to document your income, residency, and economic hardship.

You may contact one of the agencies provided directly.

The following partner agencies received Helping with Emergency Assistance Relief for Tenants funds to assist Pasco residents:

• ACE Opportunities
• Coalition for the Homeless of Pasco County
• Fresh Start for Pasco
• Housing and Education Alliance
• One Community Now
• Take Charge Wellness Center Extreme
• United Way of Pasco
• West Pasco Business Association

Read Pasco H.E.A.R.T. FAQs (PDF).

Visit Pasco H.E.A.R.T. (Pasco County Website)

Apply Pasco H.E.A.R.T.