Hillsborough County warrant records are public court files that show if a judge has signed a paper to arrest someone in Tampa, Brandon, Riverview, or any other city in the county. These records are kept by the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office and the Hillsborough County Clerk of Court.
Anyone can look up these records online for free through official government websites. This resource explains how the search process works, what each warrant type means, and what steps to take if you find a warrant in your name.
How the Hillsborough County Warrant System Works
The warrant system in Hillsborough County runs through two main government offices. The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office handles active arrest warrants. The Clerk of Court stores court case files that show bench warrants and capias orders. Both offices update their records every business day. Florida law makes these records open to the public under the Florida Public Records Act.
Who Issues Warrants in Hillsborough County
A Florida judge must sign every warrant before it becomes active. Circuit Court judges in the 13th Judicial Circuit sign arrest warrants after a law enforcement officer files an affidavit. County judges sign bench warrants when someone misses a court date. The State Attorney’s Office can also request a capias warrant through the Clerk of Court. Once a judge signs the paper, the sheriff’s office enters it into the active warrant database.
How Long Warrants Stay Active in Florida
Arrest warrants in Florida do not expire. A warrant issued 20 years ago can still lead to an arrest today. The only ways to clear a warrant are arrest, a judge recalling the order, or the issuing agency dropping the charges. Search warrants are different. Under Florida Statute 933.07, search warrants expire after 10 days if officers do not execute them.
| Warrant Type | Issued By | Active Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Arrest Warrant | Judicial Circuit Court Judge | Until served or recalled |
| Bench Warrant | Any sitting judge | Until served or recalled |
| Capias Warrant | Clerk of Court or State Attorney | Until served or recalled |
| Probation Violation Warrant | Probation officer request, judge signs | Until served or recalled |
| Search Warrant | Judicial Circuit Court Judge | 10 days from issuance |
Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office Warrant Search
The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, also called HCSO, runs the main active warrant database for the county. The office is located at 2008 East 8th Avenue, Tampa, Florida 33605. You can reach the warrants division by calling (813) 247-8200 during business hours. The office processes thousands of warrants each year for this large county of 1.4 million residents.
Using the HCSO Warrant Inquiry Page
The HCSO warrant inquiry page is a free online search tool. You can access it at hillsboroughsheriff.org/warrant-inquiry. The tool lets you search by last name, first name, and date of birth. Results show the person’s name, the warrant number, the charge, and the bond amount if set. This database updates each business day, but new entries can take 24 to 48 hours to appear.
Warrants Division Operations and Duties
The Warrants Division at HCSO is a specialized unit. Deputies in this unit serve active warrants, coordinate with other law enforcement agencies, and transport wanted persons back to Hillsborough County. They work with the U.S. Marshals Service and FBI task forces to find people who have left the Tampa Bay area. The division also handles extradition paperwork when another state arrests someone on a Hillsborough County warrant.
Phone and In-Person Warrant Checks
You can call the HCSO warrants division at (813) 247-8200 between 8:00 AM and 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday. The staff can confirm if a warrant exists for a specific person. You can also visit the sheriff’s office in person at the East 8th Avenue address. Bring a valid photo ID if you are checking on yourself. The front desk staff can direct you to the warrants division window.
| Contact Method | Details |
|---|---|
| Online Search | hillsboroughsheriff.org/warrant-inquiry |
| Phone Number | (813) 247-8200 |
| Office Address | 2008 E. 8th Avenue, Tampa, FL 33605 |
| Business Hours | Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM |
FDLE Statewide Warrant Search
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement runs a free statewide database called the Public Access System, or PAS. This tool pulls warrant data from all 67 Florida counties, including Hillsborough. You can search for wanted persons by name at the FDLE website. The database is updated regularly by each county’s sheriff’s office.
How the FDLE Public Access System Works
The FDLE PAS system shows people who are wanted for felonies and certain misdemeanors across Florida. Not every warrant shows up here. Counties decide which warrants to upload. Most violent felonies, sex offenses, and major drug charges appear in the database. Traffic warrants and small misdemeanor warrants often do not. Hillsborough County uploads most felony warrants to the system within a few business days.
Limitations of the Statewide Database
The FDLE database has limits. A clean search does not mean you have no warrants. New warrants can take time to upload. Some out-of-county agencies do not share their warrant data with FDLE. The HCSO local database is always more current for Hillsborough County. Use both tools for a complete search.
Hillsborough County Clerk of Court Records
The Hillsborough County Clerk of Court keeps the official court case files. The clerk’s office is at 800 East Twiggs Street, Tampa, Florida 33602. You can call the clerk at (813) 276-8100. The clerk’s online portal shows case dockets, criminal history within the court system, and warrant entries tied to each case.
Searching the Clerk’s Online Case Portal
The Hillsborough Clerk website at hillsclerk.com has an online case search tool. You can look up criminal cases by defendant name, case number, or citation number. Each case page shows a docket. The docket lists every filing, including warrant entries, court orders, and bond amounts. Bench warrants and capias orders appear in the docket section of the case file.
This is the official Clerk of Court website image showing the case search portal:
Public Records Requests at the Clerk’s Office
Florida Statute 119.07 makes court records public. You can request certified copies of warrant documents at the clerk’s office. There is a small fee for certified copies. Most basic docket prints cost $1.00 per page. Certified copies cost $2.00 per page plus a $1.00 certification fee. You can pay by cash, check, money order, or credit card at the clerk’s office.
| Service | Fee |
|---|---|
| Regular Copy (per page) | $1.00 |
| Certified Copy (per page) | $2.00 |
| Certification Fee | $1.00 per document |
| Online Docket Access | Free |
Types of Warrants in Florida
Florida courts issue several different warrant types. Each one has a specific legal purpose. Knowing the type helps you understand what comes next. The most common types in Hillsborough County are arrest warrants, bench warrants, and capias orders.
Arrest Warrants Under Florida Statute 901.02
An arrest warrant is a court order to take a person into custody. A law enforcement officer must file a sworn affidavit showing probable cause. A judge reviews the affidavit and signs the warrant if the standard is met. The warrant lists the person’s name, the charge, and a description. Once signed, any law enforcement officer in Florida can arrest the named person.
Bench Warrants for Failure to Appear
A judge issues a bench warrant from the bench during a court session. This happens when a defendant fails to show up for a scheduled hearing or trial. Bench warrants are common in Hillsborough County traffic court, misdemeanor court, and felony court. They can also be issued for failure to pay a fine, failure to complete court-ordered classes, or violating a court order.
Capias Warrants and Their Legal Basis
A capias warrant is similar to a bench warrant but is often filed by the State Attorney’s Office or the Clerk of Court. The legal authority comes from Florida Rule of Criminal Procedure 3.790. Capias warrants are common for people who fail to appear after being released on their own recognizance. They can also be issued when a defendant violates pretrial release conditions.
Probation Violation Warrants
A probation officer can file an affidavit with the court alleging a violation of probation. A judge reviews the affidavit and may sign a warrant for the person’s arrest. Probation violation warrants are common in Hillsborough County because of the large number of people on supervised release. A VOP warrant can be issued even for technical violations like missing a meeting with a probation officer.
Fugitive Warrants From Other States
Florida honors fugitive warrants from other states through the Uniform Criminal Extradition Act. If another state has a warrant for someone in Hillsborough County, the governor of that state can request extradition. The Hillsborough Sheriff’s Office holds the person until the extradition hearing. A lawyer can sometimes challenge the extradition at the hearing.
What to Do If You Have a Warrant in Hillsborough County
Finding out you have a warrant can be scary. The most important first step is to stay calm and contact a licensed criminal defense attorney. Do not try to handle this alone. A lawyer who knows Florida warrant law can guide you through the surrender process, negotiate bond conditions, and sometimes get the warrant recalled before you are arrested.
Contacting a Criminal Defense Attorney First
Call a Hillsborough County criminal defense lawyer before doing anything else. Many attorneys offer free case reviews for warrant cases. A lawyer can pull the official case file, confirm the warrant details, and start working on a resolution. The Tampa Bar Association has a lawyer referral service that can connect you with an attorney who handles warrant cases.
Understanding the Surrender Process
Under Florida law, turning yourself in on a warrant means going into custody first. You cannot post bond before being booked. The surrender process at the Hillsborough County Jail involves fingerprinting, photographing, and a first appearance before a judge within 24 hours. A lawyer can arrange a voluntary surrender to avoid the embarrassment of an arrest at work or home.
Working With a Bail Bondsman in Tampa
A licensed Florida bail bondsman can help post bond after the first appearance. Florida bond rates are set by the court. The standard rate is 10% of the bond amount for a surety bond. A bondsman in Tampa can post the full bond for a fee. The bond is refundable in part after the case ends, but the bondsman fee is not.
| Bond Type | Amount Paid | Refundable |
|---|---|---|
| Cash Bond | Full bond amount | Yes, after case ends |
| Surety Bond | 10% to bondsman | Bondsman fee only |
| PR Bond | $0 | Not applicable |
| Federal Bond | 15% or higher | Conditions apply |
Getting a Warrant Recalled or Quashed
A lawyer can file a motion to recall or quash a warrant in some cases. Judges recall warrants when the underlying case is dismissed, when the statute of limitations has run, or when new evidence clears the person. The process starts with a written motion to the court. A hearing is held where the lawyer presents the reasons for the recall. If granted, the warrant is removed from the active database.
Your Rights During an Arrest on a Warrant
Under Florida Statute 901.16, the officer who arrests you must tell you that a warrant exists and explain the charge. The officer does not need to have the physical warrant in hand at the time of arrest. You can ask to see the warrant, and the officer must show it to you as soon as possible. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Use these rights.
Hillsborough County Court System Details
Hillsborough County is part of the 13th Judicial Circuit of Florida. The circuit covers Hillsborough County only. The main courthouse is the George E. Edgecomb Courthouse at 800 East Twiggs Street in Tampa. This is the same building that houses the Clerk of Court office. Other courthouse locations handle county civil cases, small claims, and traffic court.
13th Judicial Circuit Court Information
The 13th Judicial Circuit serves a population of 1.4 million people across Hillsborough County. Circuit Court judges handle felony criminal cases, family law, probate, and civil cases over $30,000. County Court judges handle misdemeanors, traffic cases, and small civil claims. The chief judge oversees all court operations and assigns cases to specific divisions.
Criminal Case Flow in Hillsborough County
A felony case in Hillsborough County starts with an arrest or a warrant. The State Attorney’s Office reviews the case and files formal charges. The defendant has an arraignment, discovery, pretrial motions, and either a plea or trial. A misdemeanor case moves faster. Most misdemeanor warrants in Hillsborough County involve DUI, domestic violence, theft, or drug possession.
Warrant Lookup Tools by Other Florida Counties
Florida’s warrant system is county-based. A Hillsborough County warrant only appears in the Hillsborough database. If you lived in another county before, check that county too. Most large Florida counties have online warrant tools.
Pinellas County Warrant Search
Pinellas County runs the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office. The warrant inquiry page is at pcsoweb.com. Pinellas covers St. Petersburg, Clearwater, and Largo. Warrants in Pinellas do not show up in Hillsborough searches and vice versa.
Pasco County Warrant Records
Pasco County Sheriff’s Office runs a warrant inquiry at pascosheriff.com. Pasco covers New Port Richey, Dade City, and Zephyrhills. The Pasco database shows active warrants issued in that county only.
Polk County Warrant Lookup
Polk County Sheriff’s Office serves Bartow, Lakeland, and Winter Haven. The warrant search is at polksheriff.org. Polk is east of Hillsborough and shares a border with the eastern part of the county.
Manatee County Warrant Search
Manatee County covers Bradenton, Palmetto, and Lakewood Ranch. The sheriff’s office is at manateesheriff.com. Manatee is south of Hillsborough across the Tampa Bay area.
Clearing Your Record After a Warrant Case
After a warrant case ends, you may be able to seal or expunge the record. Florida law allows record sealing and expungement under specific conditions. An arrest without a conviction can often be expunged. A dismissed case can usually be sealed. A conviction can sometimes be sealed if you qualify for a Certificate of Eligibility from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement.
Florida Record Sealing Process
To seal a record in Florida, you first get a Certificate of Eligibility from FDLE. Then you file a petition with the court that handled the case. The State Attorney’s Office reviews the petition. A judge holds a hearing and decides whether to grant the seal. The process takes about 6 to 12 months in Hillsborough County.
Expungement Eligibility in Florida
Florida expungement rules changed in 2019. You can expunge a record if you were arrested but not formally charged, if charges were dropped, if you were found not guilty at trial, or if you completed a pretrial diversion program. You can only expunge one arrest in your lifetime under most circumstances. A lawyer can review your case for eligibility.
| Outcome | Sealing Allowed | Expungement Allowed |
|---|---|---|
| Case Dismissed | Yes | Yes |
| Not Guilty Verdict | Yes | Yes |
| Dropped Charges Before Arrest | No | Yes |
| Pretrial Diversion Complete | Yes | Yes |
| Withheld Adjudication | Yes, in some cases | No |
| Conviction | Limited cases only | No |
Federal Warrants Versus State Warrants
Federal warrants come from the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida. The federal courthouse in Tampa handles federal cases. A federal warrant is different from a Hillsborough County warrant. Federal agencies like the FBI, DEA, ATF, and U.S. Marshals Service issue federal warrants. These do not show up in HCSO or FDLE state databases.
Federal Warrant Search in Tampa
The U.S. Marshals Service runs the federal fugitive search at usmarshals.gov. The FBI also has a most wanted list at fbi.gov. PACER, the federal court records system, shows federal case information for a small fee. These tools show federal warrants only. State warrants in Hillsborough County are not in the federal system.
Common Hillsborough County Warrant Charges
Warrants in Hillsborough County cover a wide range of charges. The most common types are driving with a suspended license, failure to appear in court, violation of probation, and failure to pay child support. Drug possession, DUI, domestic violence, and theft are also common warrant charges.
Failure to Appear Warrants
Failure to appear is the most common reason for a Hillsborough County warrant. People miss court dates for traffic tickets, misdemeanor cases, and felony cases. The clerk’s office sends a notice before the court date. If you do not show up, the judge signs a warrant within a few days. The bond is usually higher than the original bond for the underlying charge.
Child Support Warrants
The Florida Department of Revenue works with the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office to enforce child support orders. If a parent falls behind on child support, the DOR files a motion with the court. A judge can sign a contempt warrant. These warrants do not allow bond in most cases. The person stays in jail until a purge amount is paid or a new payment plan is set.
Suspended License and Traffic Warrants
Many Hillsborough County warrants are for driving with a suspended license. A person keeps driving after a court suspends their license. The next traffic stop leads to a new charge and a warrant. Traffic warrants can be cleared at the clerk’s office with payment of the original fine plus a warrant recall fee.
Arrest Procedure After a Warrant Is Found
When law enforcement finds a person with an active Hillsborough County warrant, the arrest follows a set procedure. The officer confirms the warrant through the FCIC/NCIC database. The officer places the person under arrest, pats them down for weapons, and handcuffs them. The person is then transported to the Hillsborough County Jail for booking.
Booking Process at the Hillsborough County Jail
The Hillsborough County Jail is at 520 North Ashley Drive, Tampa, Florida 33602. Booking includes fingerprinting, photographing, medical screening, and inventory of personal items. The booking process takes 4 to 12 hours depending on the jail population. After booking, the person waits for a first appearance before a judge.
First Appearance Hearings
Florida law requires a first appearance within 24 hours of arrest. A judge reviews the warrant, the charge, and the arrest report. The judge sets a bond amount or orders no bond. The judge also sets conditions of release. A defense attorney can be present at the first appearance to argue for a lower bond or release on personal recognizance.
Bond Hearings and Bond Motions
If the first appearance judge sets a bond that is too high, a defense lawyer can file a bond motion. A bond reduction hearing is held within a few days. The lawyer presents arguments for lowering the bond. The State Attorney’s Office argues against reduction. The judge makes the final decision on the bond amount.
Legal Help and Attorney Resources in Hillsborough County
Hillsborough County has many criminal defense lawyers who handle warrant cases. The Hillsborough County Bar Association runs a lawyer referral service. Public defenders are also available for people who cannot afford a private attorney. The Public Defender’s Office for the 13th Judicial Circuit is at 700 East Twiggs Street in Tampa.
Hillsborough County Public Defender’s Office
The Public Defender’s Office represents people charged with criminal offenses who cannot afford a private lawyer. The office is at 700 East Twiggs Street, Suite 300, Tampa, FL 33602. The phone number is (813) 272-5970. Public defenders handle felony, misdemeanor, and juvenile cases. They also handle appeals and post-conviction relief.
Florida Bar Lawyer Referral Service
The Florida Bar runs a lawyer referral service at floridabar.org. You can search for criminal defense attorneys by county. The service gives you the names of three lawyers who handle warrant cases in Hillsborough County. Each lawyer offers a 30-minute consultation for a small fee. You can then hire the lawyer or look for another one.
Official Contact Information and Resources
For warrant searches, record checks, and legal help in Hillsborough County, use these official contacts. Always confirm hours and fees before visiting any office. The information below is current as of 2026.
Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office: 2008 E. 8th Avenue, Tampa, FL 33605. Phone: (813) 247-8200. Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Online warrant inquiry: hillsboroughsheriff.org/warrant-inquiry
Hillsborough County Clerk of Court: 800 E. Twiggs Street, Tampa, FL 33602. Phone: (813) 276-8100. Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Online case search: hillsclerk.com
FDLE Public Access System: web.fdle.state.fl.us/pas. Free statewide wanted persons search. Updated by each county.
Hillsborough County Public Defender: 700 E. Twiggs Street, Tampa, FL 33602. Phone: (813) 272-5970. For defendants who cannot afford a private attorney.
13th Judicial Circuit Court: 800 E. Twiggs Street, Tampa, FL 33602. Phone: (813) 272-5894. Main courthouse for Hillsborough County.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hillsborough County Warrant Records
These are the most common questions people ask about Hillsborough County warrant records, the search process, and what happens after a warrant is found. The answers are based on Florida law, court rules, and current Hillsborough County practices as of 2026. If you have a specific legal question, talk to a licensed Florida attorney.
How Can I Check If I Have a Warrant in Hillsborough County?
You can check for a Hillsborough County warrant in three ways. First, use the HCSO warrant inquiry page at hillsboroughsheriff.org/warrant-inquiry. Second, search the FDLE Public Access System at web.fdle.state.fl.us. Third, check the Hillsborough Clerk of Court case search at hillsclerk.com. All three tools are free. For a complete check, search by full legal name and date of birth. A clean search does not always mean no warrant exists, so call the HCSO warrants division at (813) 247-8200 to confirm.
Does a Hillsborough County Warrant Show Up on a Background Check?
Yes, an active Hillsborough County warrant shows up on most background checks. Employers, landlords, and licensing agencies use background check services that pull data from the FCIC/NCIC databases. The FDLE also shares warrant data with these services. A warrant that has been recalled or quashed by a judge will not show up. Expunged or sealed warrants are removed from public view but may still appear on law enforcement-only checks.
Can I Clear a Warrant Without Going to Jail?
In some cases, yes. A criminal defense lawyer can file a motion to recall or quash a warrant. If the judge grants the motion, the warrant is removed and you do not have to go to jail. This works for warrants based on mistakes, dropped charges, or expired statutes of limitations. For most other warrants, you must surrender to the Hillsborough County Jail, post bond, and face the charges in court.
What Happens If I Am Stopped by Police and I Have a Warrant?
The officer will run your information through the FCIC/NCIC database. The system shows the active warrant. The officer will arrest you on the spot, even if the stop was for a minor traffic violation. You will be handcuffed, searched, and transported to the Hillsborough County Jail. The officer does not need the physical warrant document. You can ask to see the warrant as soon as possible, and the officer must show it to you.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Lawyer for a Warrant Case?
Criminal defense lawyers in Hillsborough County charge different rates. Many charge a flat fee for simple warrant cases. Felony warrant cases often cost more because of the higher stakes. Some lawyers charge by the hour. The exact fee depends on the lawyer, the case, and the charges. Talk to several lawyers and ask about payment plans. If you cannot afford a lawyer, the Public Defender’s Office handles warrant cases for free.
Can a Warrant From Another State Be Enforced in Florida?
Yes. Under the Uniform Criminal Extradition Act, Florida honors warrants from other states. The governor of the issuing state can request extradition. Florida law enforcement can arrest the person and hold them for up to 30 days while the extradition paperwork is processed. A lawyer can sometimes challenge the extradition at a hearing. The exact process depends on the state that issued the warrant and the charge.
Will a Warrant Affect My Right to Own a Firearm?
An active warrant for a felony charge can affect your firearm rights under federal law. Once you are arrested on the warrant, federal law prohibits you from possessing a firearm. After the case ends, the firearm rights depend on the outcome. A dismissed case or acquittal restores the right. A felony conviction takes away the right permanently in most cases. Consult a lawyer about your specific situation.