Merrimack County Court Records
What Is Merrimack County Court Records
Court records in Merrimack County encompass all official documentation generated during legal proceedings within the county's jurisdiction. These records constitute a comprehensive archive of judicial activities maintained by various courts operating within Merrimack County, New Hampshire. Pursuant to New Hampshire RSA 91-A, the state's Right-to-Know Law, court records are defined as government records created, accepted, or obtained by a court in the course of its official business.
Court records typically include:
- Case files containing pleadings, motions, and other filed documents
- Docket sheets chronicling case events and filings
- Court orders and judgments
- Hearing and trial transcripts
- Evidence and exhibits admitted during proceedings
- Sentencing information in criminal matters
- Settlement agreements in civil cases
These judicial records differ from other public records such as vital records (birth, death, marriage certificates), property records (deeds, mortgages, liens), and tax records, which are maintained by different government entities. Court records specifically document judicial proceedings and decisions.
In Merrimack County, court records are maintained by several courts within the New Hampshire Judicial Branch, including:
- New Hampshire Superior Court - Merrimack County
- New Hampshire Circuit Court - District Division
- New Hampshire Circuit Court - Probate Division
- New Hampshire Circuit Court - Family Division
These courts handle various case types including civil litigation, criminal prosecutions, family matters, probate proceedings, and small claims disputes. The specific content of court records varies according to case type and the court of jurisdiction.
Are Court Records Public In Merrimack County
Court records in Merrimack County are generally accessible to the public in accordance with New Hampshire's Right-to-Know Law (RSA 91-A) and the constitutional principle of open courts. The New Hampshire Constitution, Part 1, Article 8, establishes that "the public's right of access to governmental proceedings and records shall not be unreasonably restricted."
The following court records are typically available for public inspection:
- Civil case files (with certain exceptions)
- Criminal case files (post-charging)
- Court dockets and calendars
- Judgments and orders
- Hearing schedules
- Property records in probate cases
However, public access is subject to important limitations. Under New Hampshire Supreme Court Rule 12, certain records may be sealed or redacted to protect privacy interests, confidential information, or sensitive matters. Records that may have restricted access include:
- Juvenile cases
- Adoption proceedings
- Mental health commitments
- Certain family court matters
- Cases involving sexual assault victims
- Records containing social security numbers, financial account information, or other personal identifiers
It is important to distinguish between state and federal court records in Merrimack County. Federal court records for cases heard in the United States District Court for the District of New Hampshire are governed by federal access rules rather than state law, though both systems generally presume public access with similar exceptions.
How To Find Court Records in Merrimack County in 2026
Members of the public seeking court records in Merrimack County may utilize several methods to locate and access these documents. The New Hampshire Judicial Branch currently provides multiple pathways for record retrieval:
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Online Access:
- The New Hampshire e-Court Case Access Portal allows users to search for case information and view certain documents electronically.
- Registration is required for full document access, though basic case information is available without registration.
- Search parameters include case number, party name, attorney, or business name.
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In-Person Requests:
- Individuals may visit the appropriate courthouse to request records in person.
- Court staff can assist with locating records using public access terminals.
- For Superior Court records, visit:
Merrimack County Superior Court
5 Court Street
Concord, NH 03301
(855) 212-1234
New Hampshire Superior Court
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Written Requests:
- Submit a written request to the clerk of the specific court holding the records.
- Include case number (if known), names of parties involved, approximate date of case, and specific documents requested.
- Pursuant to RSA 91-A:4, the court must respond to requests within 5 business days.
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Attorney Services:
- Licensed attorneys with active New Hampshire Bar membership have enhanced access through the File & Serve system.
- This system provides more comprehensive document access than the public portal.
When requesting records, be prepared to pay applicable fees for copies or certified documents. The current fee schedule is established by the New Hampshire Judicial Branch Administrative Order JB-05-26.
How To Look Up Court Records in Merrimack County Online?
Merrimack County court records can be accessed through several online platforms, depending on the court and case type. The New Hampshire Judicial Branch has implemented electronic systems that allow remote access to many court documents:
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New Hampshire e-Court Case Access Portal:
- The primary online resource for state court records is the e-Court Case Access Portal.
- This system provides access to:
- Circuit Court - District Division cases (small claims, landlord-tenant, civil, criminal)
- Circuit Court - Probate Division cases
- Circuit Court - Family Division cases (with restrictions)
- Superior Court cases
- Search functionality includes:
- Case number search
- Party name search
- Business name search
- Attorney search
- Registration is required for document viewing, though basic case information is available without an account.
-
Federal Court Records - PACER:
- For federal cases in the District of New Hampshire, including those from Merrimack County, use the Public Access to Court Electronic Records (PACER) system.
- PACER requires registration and charges fees per page viewed.
- The system provides access to:
- Civil and criminal case records
- Bankruptcy filings
- Appeals documents
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New Hampshire Supreme Court Case Lookup:
- For appellate cases, the New Hampshire Supreme Court provides access to opinions and orders.
- Published opinions are available without registration.
When using these online systems, users should note that:
- Not all documents are available electronically, particularly for older cases.
- Certain sensitive or sealed documents are not accessible online.
- Document availability varies by court and case type.
- Technical assistance for the e-Court system is available through the New Hampshire Judicial Branch Electronic Services Help Desk at (800) 462-9404.
How To Search Merrimack County Court Records for Free?
New Hampshire law provides for free public inspection of court records, with fees typically applying only to copies or certified documents. Pursuant to RSA 91-A:4(IV), "Each public body or agency shall, upon request for any governmental record reasonably described, make available for inspection and copying any such governmental record within its files when such records are immediately available for such release."
Free access options in Merrimack County include:
- In-Person Courthouse Access:
- Visit the appropriate courthouse during business hours to view records at no cost.
- Public access terminals are available for searching case information.
- Court staff can assist with locating records, though research assistance may be limited.
Merrimack County Superior Court
5 Court Street
Concord, NH 03301
(855) 212-1234
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
New Hampshire Superior Court
6th Circuit - District Division - Concord
32 Clinton Street
Concord, NH 03301
(855) 212-1234
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
New Hampshire Circuit Court
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Basic Online Searches:
- The New Hampshire e-Court Case Access Portal offers free basic case information searches without registration.
- While viewing documents requires registration and may incur fees, the following information is available at no cost:
- Case numbers
- Party names
- Case types
- Filing dates
- Scheduled hearings
- Case status
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New Hampshire Supreme Court Opinions:
- All published opinions of the New Hampshire Supreme Court are available online at no cost.
- These include appeals from Merrimack County cases.
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Law Libraries:
- The New Hampshire Law Library in Concord provides free access to legal research tools that may include court records.
- Public libraries in Merrimack County may also offer access to legal databases.
When utilizing free access options, be aware that:
- Staff assistance for extensive research may be limited.
- Printing or copying documents typically incurs fees (currently $0.25 per page for standard copies).
- Certified copies have additional fees as established by Administrative Order JB-05-26.
What's Included in a Merrimack County Court Record?
Court records in Merrimack County contain various documents and information depending on the case type and court of jurisdiction. The content of these records is governed by New Hampshire Supreme Court Rules and state statutes. Typical components include:
For Civil Cases:
- Complaint or petition initiating the case
- Summons and proof of service
- Answers and counterclaims
- Motions and supporting memoranda
- Discovery documents (if filed with the court)
- Exhibits admitted into evidence
- Transcripts of hearings and trials
- Court orders and judgments
- Settlement agreements (if filed)
- Appeals documentation
For Criminal Cases:
- Charging documents (indictments, informations, or complaints)
- Arrest warrants and returns
- Bail and bond information
- Motions and responses
- Evidence logs and exhibits
- Plea agreements
- Sentencing information
- Probation reports (with possible redactions)
- Appeal documents
For Family Court Cases:
- Petitions for divorce or parenting rights
- Financial affidavits (may be confidential)
- Parenting plans
- Child support worksheets
- Guardian ad litem reports (often confidential)
- Court orders regarding custody, support, and property division
- Final divorce decrees
For Probate Cases:
- Wills and codicils
- Petitions for estate administration
- Inventories of estate assets
- Claims against estates
- Guardianship and conservatorship documents
- Accountings
- Distributions and final settlements
Case dockets serve as chronological indexes of all filings and proceedings, listing:
- Document titles and filing dates
- Hearing dates and outcomes
- Identity of presiding judges
- Names of attorneys or representatives
- Court actions and rulings
Court records may also include administrative information such as:
- Case classification and status
- Filing fees paid
- Jury information (if applicable)
- Interpreter requests
- Technological accommodations made for hearings
Certain information is routinely redacted from public court records pursuant to New Hampshire Supreme Court Rule 12, including:
- Social Security numbers
- Financial account numbers
- Names of minor children (in certain cases)
- Dates of birth
- Home addresses (in sensitive cases)
How Long Does Merrimack County Keep Court Records?
Merrimack County courts retain records according to schedules established by the New Hampshire Supreme Court and the state's records management program. Retention periods vary based on case type, significance, and outcome. These retention policies are governed by RSA 33-A:3-a and Supreme Court administrative orders.
Standard retention periods include:
For Superior Court:
- Felony cases: Permanently maintained
- Civil cases with judgments: 20 years after final disposition
- Civil cases dismissed: 10 years after final disposition
- Domestic violence petitions: 20 years
- Equity cases: Permanently maintained
For Circuit Court - District Division:
- Misdemeanor cases: 10 years after final disposition
- Violations: 5 years after final disposition
- Small claims: 10 years after judgment
- Landlord-tenant cases: 7 years after disposition
For Circuit Court - Family Division:
- Divorce cases: Permanently maintained
- Child support orders: Until the youngest child reaches age 28
- Domestic violence petitions: 20 years
- Guardianship of minors: Until minor reaches age 22
For Circuit Court - Probate Division:
- Wills: Permanently maintained
- Estate administration: Permanently maintained
- Guardianships and conservatorships: 7 years after termination
- Name changes: Permanently maintained
The New Hampshire Judicial Branch has implemented electronic case management systems that have altered traditional retention practices. Pursuant to Administrative Order 2015-02, many court records are now maintained electronically, which has extended practical retention periods beyond the minimum requirements.
For cases filed after the implementation of electronic filing:
- Superior Court civil cases (after 2018): Maintained electronically indefinitely
- Circuit Court cases (after 2014, varying by division): Maintained electronically indefinitely
Older paper records that have not been digitized follow the standard retention schedule and may be destroyed after the retention period expires. Records of significant historical or precedential value may be transferred to the New Hampshire State Archives for permanent preservation rather than being destroyed.
Types of Courts In Merrimack County
Merrimack County's court system operates as part of the New Hampshire Judicial Branch, with several courts serving different jurisdictional functions:
Merrimack County Superior Court
5 Court Street
Concord, NH 03301
(855) 212-1234
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
New Hampshire Superior Court
6th Circuit - District Division - Concord
32 Clinton Street
Concord, NH 03301
(855) 212-1234
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
New Hampshire Circuit Court
6th Circuit - District Division - Franklin
7 Hancock Terrace
Franklin, NH 03235
(855) 212-1234
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
New Hampshire Circuit Court
6th Circuit - District Division - Hooksett
101 Merrimack Street
Hooksett, NH 03106
(855) 212-1234
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
New Hampshire Circuit Court
6th Circuit - Family Division - Concord
25 Hall Street
Concord, NH 03301
(855) 212-1234
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
New Hampshire Circuit Court
6th Circuit - Probate Division - Concord
10 Court Street
Concord, NH 03301
(855) 212-1234
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
New Hampshire Circuit Court
United States District Court - District of New Hampshire
Warren B. Rudman U.S. Courthouse
55 Pleasant Street
Concord, NH 03301
(603) 225-1423
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
U.S. District Court - New Hampshire
The New Hampshire court hierarchy follows this structure:
- Circuit Court (District, Family, and Probate Divisions) - first-level trial courts
- Superior Court - general jurisdiction trial court
- New Hampshire Supreme Court - highest appellate court
Federal cases follow a separate hierarchy:
- U.S. District Court for the District of New Hampshire
- U.S. Court of Appeals for the First Circuit
- Supreme Court of the United States
What Types of Cases Do Merrimack County Courts Hear?
Merrimack County courts adjudicate a wide range of legal matters, with each court having specific jurisdictional authority as defined by New Hampshire statutes:
Superior Court handles:
- Felony criminal cases
- Civil matters involving claims exceeding $25,000
- Equity cases (injunctions, specific performance)
- Title disputes and real property matters
- Appeals from administrative agency decisions
- Jury trials (the only court in NH system that conducts jury trials)
- Habeas corpus petitions
- Complex commercial litigation
Circuit Court - District Division presides over:
- Misdemeanor and violation-level criminal offenses
- Civil cases with claims up to $25,000
- Small claims (up to $10,000)
- Landlord-tenant disputes and eviction proceedings
- Domestic violence protective orders
- Stalking protective orders
- Municipal ordinance violations
- Motor vehicle violations
- Preliminary hearings in felony cases
Circuit Court - Family Division addresses:
- Divorce proceedings
- Parenting rights and responsibilities (custody)
- Child support establishment and enforcement
- Domestic violence protective orders
- Guardianship of minors
- Termination of parental rights
- Adoption
- Juvenile delinquency cases
- Children in Need of Services (CHINS) petitions
- Emancipation of minors
Circuit Court - Probate Division handles:
- Wills and estate administration
- Guardianships and conservatorships for incapacitated adults
- Trust administration
- Name changes
- Involuntary commitment proceedings
- Partition of real estate among heirs
U.S. District Court (federal) adjudicates:
- Federal criminal prosecutions
- Civil cases under federal law
- Civil cases between citizens of different states (diversity jurisdiction) exceeding $75,000
- Bankruptcy proceedings
- Patent and copyright cases
- Federal habeas corpus petitions
- Civil rights claims under federal law
Case assignment is determined by subject matter jurisdiction, amount in controversy, and in some instances, geographic location within the county. The New Hampshire Judicial Branch operates under a unified court system established by RSA 490:4, which grants the Supreme Court administrative authority over all state courts.
How To Find a Court Docket In Merrimack County
Court dockets in Merrimack County can be accessed through several methods, providing the public with information about scheduled hearings, filed documents, and case status. A docket serves as the official chronological record of all proceedings in a case. Members of the public may locate docket information through the following channels:
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Online Docket Search:
- The New Hampshire e-Court Case Access Portal provides searchable docket information for most state courts.
- Users can search by:
- Case number
- Party name
- Attorney name
- Business name
- Basic docket information is available without registration, including:
- Case type and filing date
- Party names
- Scheduled hearings
- Document titles (viewing documents requires registration)
-
In-Person Docket Review:
- Visit the clerk's office at the appropriate courthouse during business hours.
- Public access terminals are available for searching electronic dockets.
- For older cases not in the electronic system, staff can assist with locating physical docket books.
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Telephone Inquiries:
- Limited docket information may be obtained by calling the appropriate court clerk's office.
- The centralized phone number for all New Hampshire state courts is (855) 212-1234.
- Staff can verify hearing dates, times, and basic case status information.
-
Federal Court Dockets:
- For federal cases in the U.S. District Court for New Hampshire, use the PACER system.
- PACER requires registration and charges fees for document access.
- The federal courthouse in Concord also provides public access terminals for free docket searches.
-
Daily Court Calendars:
- Daily hearing schedules are posted at each courthouse.
- Some courts publish their calendars on the New Hampshire Judicial Branch website.
When searching for docket information, it is helpful to have:
- Case number (if known)
- Full names of parties involved
- Approximate date of case filing
- Case type or nature of the proceeding
Pursuant to New Hampshire Supreme Court Rule 12, certain case types may have restricted docket access, including:
- Juvenile cases
- Adoption proceedings
- Mental health commitments
- Certain family matters involving minors
Which Courts in Merrimack County Are Not Courts of Record?
In the New Hampshire judicial system, a "court of record" is defined as a court that creates and maintains a verbatim record of proceedings, typically through audio recording or court reporters, and follows formal rules of procedure. Pursuant to RSA 502-A:27-d, courts not of record typically do not maintain verbatim transcripts of all proceedings and may follow more simplified procedures.
In Merrimack County, courts not of record include:
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Small Claims Sessions of the Circuit Court - District Division
- These proceedings handle civil claims up to $10,000
- While documents are filed and preserved, verbatim transcripts of hearings are not automatically created
- Proceedings follow simplified rules established in RSA 503
- Appeals from small claims decisions go to the Superior Court for a new hearing (de novo review)
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Violation-Level Offense Proceedings in the Circuit Court - District Division
- These handle minor infractions such as traffic tickets and municipal ordinance violations
- Proceedings are summary in nature
- No verbatim record is automatically created
- Appeals are to the Superior Court for de novo review
All other courts in Merrimack County are courts of record, including:
- Merrimack County Superior Court
- Circuit Court - District Division (for misdemeanor and regular civil proceedings)
- Circuit Court - Family Division
- Circuit Court - Probate Division
- U.S. District Court for the District of New Hampshire
The distinction between courts of record and those not of record is significant for appeal purposes. Appeals from courts not of record typically result in a completely new trial in the Superior Court (trial de novo), rather than a review of the legal decisions based on the record, as specified in RSA 599:1.
It is important to note that even in courts not of record, case files containing pleadings, motions, and orders are maintained and preserved according to the retention schedules previously discussed. The primary distinction is the absence of a verbatim transcript of the proceedings.