Raleigh County, WV Courts and Public Records
- Arrest Records
- Judgments
- Bankruptcies
- DUIs & DWIs
- Felonies
- Warrants
- Jail Records
- Lien Records
- Sex Offenses
- Misdemeanors
- Criminal Records
- Federal Dockets
Raleigh County's trial-level cases are heard in its circuit court and family court, while magistrate courts handle limited-jurisdiction matters. The county circuit clerk keeps circuit and family court records, and magistrate court clerks keep magistrate court records.
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Court Name | Raleigh County Circuit Court and Family Court, with magistrate courts |
| Website | courtswv.gov (West Virginia Judiciary) |
| Records Kept By | County circuit clerk (circuit and family court records); magistrate court clerk (magistrate court records) |
| Handles | Felony criminal cases, civil cases, juvenile cases, and family law matters in circuit and family court; civil disputes up to $20,000 and other limited-jurisdiction matters in magistrate court |
| Does NOT Handle | Federal cases, which are heard in the U.S. District Court for West Virginia; appeals, which go to the Intermediate Court of Appeals or the Supreme Court of Appeals |
| Online Case Search | Court Records Access (courtswv.gov) |
How to Search Raleigh County Court Records
Have the full name, the case number if you know it, and the approximate dates ready before you search Raleigh County court records.
Online
Go to the Court Records Access page on courtswv.gov.
Search circuit court and magistrate court records by name or case number.
Choose the search that matches the court level of your case.
Best for: Quick lookups of case status and parties
In Person
Go to the circuit clerk's office at the Raleigh County courthouse.
Bring the case number and party names if you have them.
Ask the clerk for records that are not available online.
Best for: Records and copies not available online
Contact the Clerk
Call the circuit clerk's office to confirm which office holds your case.
Ask the magistrate court clerk about magistrate court records.
Ask what the clerk needs before you send or bring a request.
Best for: Confirming which office holds a case
Search by Name on WestVirginiaCourts.org
Go to WestVirginiaCourts.org and enter a full name.
Search across record types without a case number.
Confirm results with the court, since they are not official court records.
Best for: Finding leads without a case number
Raleigh County Court Statistics (2025)
Raleigh County's circuit courts recorded 2,057 criminal, civil and juvenile filings in 2025, which is up 13.6% from 1,811 in 2024. Family domestic filings are published for 2025 only.
2,057
Circuit filings in 2025 (criminal, civil and juvenile)
+13.6%
Change in circuit filings vs 2024 (1,811)
1,392
Family domestic filings in 2025 (sum of published categories)
416
Circuit juvenile filings in 2025
| Metric | 2025 | 2024 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Circuit criminal filings | 859 | 596 | +44.1% |
| Circuit civil filings | 782 | 737 | +6.1% |
| Circuit juvenile filings | 416 | 478 | -13.0% |
| Total circuit filings | 2,057 | 1,811 | +13.6% |
The largest change between 2024 and 2025 was in criminal filings, at +263 cases.
How Have Court Filings Changed in Raleigh County?
Estimated total filings in Raleigh County moved up over the last five years; dispositions are estimated at a similar level.
| Fiscal Year | Total Filings | Total Dispositions | YoY Filing Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | ~9,422 | ~9,160 | ~-1.3% |
| 2024 | ~9,543 | ~9,283 | ~-3.5% |
| 2023 | ~9,894 | ~9,651 | ~+5.1% |
| 2022 | ~9,413 | ~9,201 | ~+0.3% |
| 2021 | ~9,385 | ~9,160 | ~+0.3% |
Estimated filings changed +0.4% between 2021 and 2025, from 9,385 to 9,422. The largest annual change was +5.1% in 2023. The latest change of -1.3% reflects statewide West Virginia trends. Figures marked with ~ are estimates: West Virginia statewide figures scaled by Raleigh County's 4.09% share of the state population.
What Types of Cases Are Filed in Raleigh County?
Criminal filings are the largest share of Raleigh County's 2025 circuit filings at 41.8% (859 of 2,057).
| Case Type | Filings 2025 | Share of Circuit Filings | YoY Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Criminal | 859 | 41.8% | +44.1% |
| Felonies | 501 | 24.4% | +144.4% |
| Magistrate Appeals | 6 | 0.3% | -25.0% |
| Misdemeanor | 116 | 5.6% | +123.1% |
| Other Criminal Cases | 236 | 11.5% | -28.7% |
| Civil | 782 | 38.0% | +6.1% |
| Adoption | 53 | 2.6% | -5.4% |
| General Civil | 487 | 23.7% | +12.7% |
| Guardianship | 49 | 2.4% | +6.5% |
| Magistrate Appeals | 11 | 0.5% | -59.3% |
| Mental Health | 56 | 2.7% | -8.2% |
| Other Civil Cases | 114 | 5.5% | +10.7% |
| Personal Safety Appeals | 12 | 0.6% | +0.0% |
| Juvenile | 416 | 20.2% | -13.0% |
| Child Abuse / Neglect | 118 | 5.7% | -22.9% |
| Delinquency | 168 | 8.2% | -11.6% |
| Status Offenses | 130 | 6.3% | -3.7% |
| Total circuit filings | 2,057 | 100.0% | +13.6% |
The fastest-growing category was Felonies (+144.4%), and the steepest decline was Magistrate Appeals (-59.3%).
How Does Raleigh County Compare With West Virginia Overall?
Raleigh County is estimated to account for about 4.09% of the 230,414 cases filed in West Virginia courts in 2025.
| Metric | Raleigh County | West Virginia | Comparison |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total filings | ~9,422 | 230,414 | ~4.09% of statewide filings |
| YoY change in filings | ~-1.3% | -1.3% | Same as state (estimate) |
| Filings per judicial position | ~1,884 | 1,829 | Estimated at the state level |
| Dispositions per judicial position equivalent | ~1,832 | 1,778 | Estimated at the state level |
| Criminal share of filings | ~57.6% | 57.6% | Same as state (estimate) |
| Civil share of filings | ~28.1% | 28.1% | Same as state (estimate) |
| Family law share of filings | ~8.5% | 8.5% | Same as state (estimate) |
These county values are estimates built from statewide West Virginia figures, so they track the state mix by design. Actual county dockets may differ. Figures marked with ~ are estimates: West Virginia statewide figures scaled by Raleigh County's 4.09% share of the state population.
Raleigh County Crime Statistics (2025)
These figures are West Virginia statewide totals as reported to the FBI, not counts for Raleigh County. Agency reporting may be incomplete, and county crime counts are not available here. Statewide violent and property crimes combined fell 10.9% from 2024 to 2025. In 2025, reporting agencies covered about 96.4% of West Virginia's population, so year-over-year changes can partly reflect which agencies reported.
4,123
Violent crimes, West Virginia statewide, 2025
16,897
Property crimes, West Virginia statewide, 2025 (includes arson)
233.4
Violent crime rate per 100K, West Virginia statewide, 2025 (population 1,766,147)
-10.9%
Change in total violent plus property crimes, West Virginia statewide, 2025 vs 2024 (21,020 vs 23,595)
| Offense | 2025 | Rate per 100K | 2024 | YoY Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Homicide | 68 | 3.9 | 104 | -34.6% |
| Rape | 945 | 53.5 | 932 | +1.4% |
| Robbery | 149 | 8.4 | 179 | -16.8% |
| Aggravated assault | 2,961 | 167.7 | 3,088 | -4.1% |
| Violent crimes total | 4,123 | 233.4 | 4,303 | -4.2% |
| Burglary | 2,400 | 135.9 | 3,124 | -23.2% |
| Larceny-theft | 13,259 | 750.7 | 14,620 | -9.3% |
| Motor vehicle theft | 1,109 | 62.8 | 1,361 | -18.5% |
| Property crimes total | 16,897 | 956.7 | 19,292 | -12.4% |
Rates use the West Virginia 2025 population of 1,766,147. County-level rates are not published, so this section does not compare Raleigh County with the state. The property crimes total includes arson, so it is larger than the sum of the property offenses listed above.
Raleigh County Courthouse Locations
Raleigh County court proceedings are held at the Raleigh County Courthouse. Check your notice or case paperwork to confirm the courthouse assigned to your case before you go.
| Courthouse | Address | Phone | Verified Services |
|---|---|---|---|
| Raleigh County Courthouse | 215 Main Street, Beckley, WV 25801 | 304-255-9100 | See location page |
Addresses and phone numbers come from public directory listings and may change, so confirm them with the clerk before you visit.
Which Court Handles Your Case in Raleigh County?
Start with the court named on your paperwork, since circuit, family and magistrate courts in Raleigh County handle different types of cases.
| Your Situation | Go To | Key Details |
|---|---|---|
| Traffic ticket | Magistrate court | Magistrate courts handle limited-jurisdiction matters; confirm the court on your ticket. |
| Parking ticket | The agency that issued the ticket | Confirm with the issuing agency how to pay or contest a parking ticket. |
| Misdemeanor | Magistrate court | Check your charging paperwork for the court and the clerk who holds the case. |
| Felony | Circuit court | The county circuit clerk keeps felony case records. |
| Civil lawsuit | Circuit court or magistrate court | Magistrate court handles civil disputes up to $20,000; circuit court handles larger claims. |
| Divorce | Family court | The county circuit clerk keeps family court records. |
| Child custody or support | Family court | The county circuit clerk keeps family court records. |
| Juvenile case | Circuit court | The county circuit clerk keeps circuit court juvenile records. |
| Business matter | Business Court Division | Business Court Case Search covers business court cases. |
| Federal case | U.S. District Court for West Virginia | Federal cases are not filed in county courts. |
| Appeal | Intermediate Court of Appeals or Supreme Court of Appeals | These are the state appellate courts in West Virginia. |
Are Raleigh County Court Records Public?
Many West Virginia court records can be searched online, but access depends on the type of record and the court, so confirm with the clerk before you assume a Raleigh County record is available.
Public records
Circuit and family court records for Raleigh County are kept by the county circuit clerk, and magistrate court records are kept by the magistrate court clerk.
Restricted or confidential records
Some records may not appear in online search results or may require a request to the clerk. The clerk can confirm which records are held and whether a specific record can be released.
Online access
Court Records Access on courtswv.gov links to the circuit court and magistrate court search tools, and the Business Court Case Search covers business court cases. Confirm results with the court, since online results are not official court records.
In-person access
Visit the circuit clerk's office at the county courthouse for circuit and family court records, or the magistrate court clerk for magistrate court records.
How to Search Raleigh County Court Records Online
Use the official West Virginia court search tools to find Raleigh County cases by court level, and ask the clerk for documents that are not online.
- Identify whether the case is in circuit court, family court, or magistrate court.
- Open the Court Records Access page on courtswv.gov and choose the circuit court or magistrate court search.
- Search by party name or case number, and note the case number from the results.
- Review the case details, parties, and status.
- Contact the clerk for documents that are not available online.
| Case Type | Where to Search | Who Keeps Records | Limits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Circuit criminal | Circuit court search on Court Records Access | County circuit clerk | Documents may require the clerk |
| Civil (circuit court) | Circuit court search on Court Records Access | County circuit clerk | Documents may require the clerk |
| Juvenile (circuit court) | Ask the county circuit clerk | County circuit clerk | Juvenile records may be restricted |
| Family law | Ask the county circuit clerk | County circuit clerk | Confirm what the clerk can release |
| Magistrate court | Magistrate court search on Court Records Access | Magistrate court clerk | Limited-jurisdiction cases |
| Business court | Business Court Case Search | Business Court Division | Business court cases only |
How to Pay Fines & Citations in Raleigh County
Magistrate court payments for Raleigh County can be made online through the statewide Magistrate Court Payments portal.
- Online: Pay through the Magistrate Court Payments portal. Confirm with the magistrate court clerk which fines and costs the portal covers.
Parking tickets are handled by the agency that issued the ticket, so confirm payment options with that agency.
Raleigh County Court Records FAQ
How do I search county court records?
Use the Court Records Access page on courtswv.gov to search by name or case number, or contact the county circuit clerk.
Are county court records public?
Many records can be searched online, but access depends on the record type, so confirm with the clerk before assuming a record is available.
How do I find a criminal case?
Search by name on the Court Records Access page in the circuit court or magistrate court search, or ask the circuit clerk.
How do I find a court date?
Check your ticket or notice first, then search the case on the Court Records Access page or contact the county circuit clerk.
How do I pay a traffic ticket?
Use the Magistrate Court Payments portal and confirm with the magistrate court clerk which charges it covers.
How many cases are filed in Raleigh County each year?
Circuit courts recorded 2,057 criminal, civil and juvenile filings in 2025, up 13.6% from 1,811 in 2024, plus 1,392 family domestic filings in 2025.
What is the most common type of case?
Criminal filings are the largest group at 859 of 2,057 circuit filings in 2025 (41.8%).
Is crime rising or falling?
County crime counts are not available here. Statewide, reported violent crimes fell 4.2% to 4,123 in 2025 from 4,303 in 2024, and property crimes fell 12.4% to 16,897 from 19,292, as reported to the FBI. These are West Virginia statewide figures, and reporting coverage changed between years.
Courts in the County
Raleigh County Circuit CourtMore Info
| Address: | 222 Main Street, Beckley, WV, 25801 |
| Phone Number: | 304-255-9135 |
| Fax: | 304-255-9353 |
| Website: | http://www.courtswv.gov/lower-courts/counties/raleigh.html |
Beckley Municipal CourtMore Info
| Address: | 169 Industrial Drive, Beckley, WV, 25801 |
| Phone Number: | 304-256-1719 |
| Fax: | 304-256-1731 |
| Website: | https://beckley.org/municipal-court/ |
Useful Links
- West Virginia Judiciary - Supreme Court of Appeals of West Virginia - Offers comprehensive information on the state's judicial system, including opinions, court rules, and forms.
- West Virginia Judiciary - Online Case Information - Provides access to case information for courts in West Virginia, facilitating searches for public records.
- Raleigh County Sheriff's Office - Home - Contains essential resources such as incident reports, community alerts, and safety programs for Raleigh County residents.
- Raleigh County Courthouse - Raleigh County, West Virginia - Offers contact information, services, and history of the county courthouse, as well as visitor information.
- Legal Aid of West Virginia - A nonprofit organization providing free legal assistance and advocacy for low-income residents of West Virginia.
- The West Virginia State Bar - Resource for legal professionals and the public, offering attorney directories, legal resources, and educational programs.
- Raleigh County, WV - Official Government Website - Provides local government resources including county departments, services, news, and event announcements for residents.
- West Virginia Center on Budget and Policy - A non-profit organization advocating for fair budget practices and economic policies in West Virginia.
- West Virginia Judiciary - Public Resources - Offers general information on jury service, family court services, and various self-help legal resources.
- West Virginia Courts - Copy of Public Record Request - Guide on requesting copies of public records from the West Virginia courts, including procedures and forms.
- National Association of Women Court Judges - Provides support and resources focusing on the advocacy and advancement of women judges in state courts.
- West Virginia Continuing Legal Education (CLE) - Offers courses and resources for legal education and professional development in West Virginia.
- National Association of Counties - Provides research data, advocacy tools, and resources for county officials, including those in Raleigh County.
- West Virginia Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation - Overview of correctional facilities, inmate information, and community-based support programs throughout the state.
- American Civil Liberties Union of West Virginia - Dedicated to protecting individual rights and liberties in West Virginia through litigation, advocacy, and public education.
- West Virginia Guardian Ad Litem Program - Provides representation for children involved in abuse, neglect, and custody cases across West Virginia's judicial system.
- National Center for State Courts - Offers resources and information on court operations and judicial administration across the United States.
- West Virginia Coalition Against Domestic Violence - Works to end domestic violence through advocacy, support services, and public awareness in West Virginia.
- Southern Poverty Law Center - Advocates for civil rights and justice, providing outreach and legal aid for marginalized communities in the South.
- Children’s Law Center - Supports legal advocacy for children and offers resources for child welfare and juvenile justice professionals.
Table of Contents
- Raleigh County, Courts and Public Records
- How to Search Raleigh County Court Records
- Raleigh County Court Statistics (2025)
- How Have Court Filings Changed in Raleigh County?
- What Types of Cases Are Filed in Raleigh County?
- How Does Raleigh County Compare With West Virginia Overall?
- Raleigh County Crime Statistics (2025)
- Raleigh County Courthouse Locations
- Which Court Handles Your Case in Raleigh County?
- Are Raleigh County Court Records Public?
- How to Search Raleigh County Court Records Online
- How to Pay Fines & Citations in Raleigh County
- Raleigh County Court Records FAQ
- Courts in the County
- Useful Links