Support Us Button Widget

Meet the Polk County Clerk of Courts

It’s more than jury duty — find out everything the Clerk’s office does to keep public records and funds safe.

Exterior view of the Polk County Government Center offices

Find the Clerk’s Lakeland branch at 930 E. Parker St., inside the Polk Government Center.

Photo by LALtoday

Table of Contents

The Polk County Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller is there for the highs and lows of life: It’s where you apply for a marriage license or pay a traffic ticket. This office does much more than what you may think, though — here’s what we know.

About the Clerk

Stacy Butterfield is Polk County’s current Clerk. She’s serving her third term since first being elected in 2013. The role of Clerk was established by Florida’s state government in 1838.

The Clerk’s main priority is safely keeping public funds and records. The Polk County Clerk even holds official records dating back to the 1800s. They also work with the courts to process and file all legal documents and court records.

What the Clerk does

The Clerk’s services cover a wide array of offerings. On the courts side, this is where you’ll receive jury duty summons, file for a marriage license or name change, pay child support and traffic tickets, and more.

You can also find public records via the Clerk, including tax deeds, court dockets, and land records. Pro tip: You can typically request your records for free without paying a fee for an external service.

Additional resources

Sign up for the Clerk’s free Property Alert Service. Register property you own, and receive alerts when documents are filed that may affect your property (read: Keep an eye out for any fraudulent activity).

This Saturday, March 25 is the Clerk’s Saturday Passport Application Event. Visit the Lakeland branch (930 E. Parker St.) or Winter Haven branch (3425 Lake Alfred Rd.) from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. for a convenient way to apply for a passport outside of regular hours.

More from LALtoday
In honor of Catapult’s 10-year anniversary, we’re spilling the tea on what goes on behind the scenes. How many of these facts did you know?
If your holiday season isn’t complete without a cheesy Hallmark movie, then this activity is for you.
Publix has made its mark on Lakeland, from its economy to its architecture. Find out what these former buildings are today.
Decking the halls has never been easier — or more swan-filled.
Check out winter and holiday events happening in and around Lakeland in this seasonal guide.
It’s the most wonderful time of the year. Check out what you can expect for the annual parade taking place Thursday, Dec. 5.
Historical markers are physical signs, plaques, and statues that commemorate a significant place or event. Where would you like to see a historical marker around Lakeland?
From coffee to baked goods to cocktails, try these festive bevs + bites for the holiday season.
We’re calling on you to tell us your Lakeland-themed goals for the new year.
Prepare for winter weather in Lakeland, FL with these seasonal temperature and precipitation outlooks.