Greenville County Magistrate Court

The Greenville County Magistrate Court handles minor legal cases and preliminary proceedings within the county. Residents turn to this court for matters such as small claims, traffic violations, misdemeanors, landlord-tenant disputes, and warrants. It serves as a local hub for addressing legal issues, making the judicial process more accessible to the community. This ensures that even minor cases receive proper attention and resolution.

As part of the county judicial system, the magistrates’ court focuses on efficiently resolving cases that do not require higher courts, offering a local and accessible venue for civil and criminal matters to help ensure justice is administered fairly and promptly, and Greenville County Court provides a reliable reference point for residents who need clear information about procedures and case types, allowing minor legal matters to be addressed quickly so higher courts are not overburdened and residents can resolve disputes or obligations without unnecessary delays.

Magistrate Court at a Glance

The Greenville County Magistrate Court handles specific civil and criminal matters within clearly defined limits. It serves as a court of limited jurisdiction, resolving smaller disputes and certain traffic or criminal cases efficiently.

Civil Jurisdiction

The Magistrate Court deals with civil cases involving disputes of less than $7,500. These cases typically include:

• Small claims disputes
• Landlord-tenant issues
• Minor contract disagreements

The court provides a streamlined process for handling these matters quickly, without requiring the extended procedures of higher courts. By keeping civil cases below a monetary threshold, the court ensures residents can resolve disputes efficiently.

Criminal and Traffic Jurisdiction

On the criminal side, the Greenville County Magistrate Court handles misdemeanor offenses and traffic violations. Typical limits include:

• Fines up to $500
• Jail sentences of up to 30 days

Common examples include speeding tickets, minor assaults, and public disturbance charges. These limits help the court focus on lower-level offenses, keeping higher courts available for more serious cases.

Distinction from Other Courts

Magistrate Court differs from Circuit Court and Municipal Court in both scope and authority:

How to Search Greenville County Magistrate Court Records

Learn the correct method to search court records, view filings online, and understand associated costs. Searching Greenville County Magistrate Court records is straightforward when following a clear process. Users can look up civil filings, small claims, or warrants using online resources or by visiting the court in person.

Court Location – Where to Confirm the Correct Magistrate Court

Website:

• Greenville County Court Locations
  https://www.greenvillecounty.org/ClerkOfCourt/Court-Locations.asp

What You Get:

• Court addresses
• Phone numbers
• Filing locations
• Jurisdiction details

Cost:

• Free

Public Index – Online Search for Magistrate Court Records

Website:

• Greenville County Public Index
  https://publicindex.greenvillecounty.org/

Records Available:

• Civil filings
• Small claims filings
• Warrants
• Case status and basic record details

Cost:

• Free to search

Name or Case Number Search – Online Search Tools

Website:

• Greenville County Public Index
  https://publicindex.greenvillecounty.org/

You Can Search For:

• Arrest warrants
• Small claims filings
• Magistrate Court filings
• Case numbers or names (include common misspellings and aliases)

Cost:

• Free

Reading and Understanding Search Results

Website:

• Greenville County Public Index
  https://publicindex.greenvillecounty.org/

Information Shown:

• Case status (open/closed / pending)
• Docket info
• Filing dates
• Hearing schedules

Cost:

• Free

Requesting Official Copies or More Case Details

Website:

• Greenville County Clerk of Court
  https://www.greenvillecounty.org/ClerkOfCourt/

Documents You Can Request:

• Certified copies
• Official court filings
• Case documents

Cost:

Usually $1–$5 per page (varies by document type)

Types of Cases Heard in Greenville County Magistrate Court

The Greenville County Magistrate Court handles a variety of civil, criminal, and traffic matters. It serves as a local venue for smaller disputes and preliminary hearings, while more serious cases are transferred to the Circuit Court.

Civil Cases and Small Claims

Magistrate Court primarily hears civil disputes where the claim does not exceed $7,500, offering residents and businesses a faster, more accessible resolution. These cases often involve disagreements over property, leases, or small financial claims.

Common civil matters include landlord-tenant disputes, eviction proceedings, and claim and delivery actions. The court also handles property-related conflicts, such as trespassing or boundary issues. In many instances, the judge encourages negotiation or settlement before a formal hearing, helping both parties save time and reduce costs.

Criminal and Traffic Cases

The Greenville County Magistrate Court also manages certain criminal and traffic matters. Its responsibilities include:

• Traffic violations: Speeding, reckless driving, and other minor infractions.
• Misdemeanor criminal cases: Less severe offenses such as disorderly conduct or minor theft.
• Preliminary hearings: Initial examination to determine whether a felony case should move to Circuit Court.
• Bond settings and bail: Determining release conditions for arrested individuals.
• Warrants issuance: Authorizing arrest or search warrants for applicable cases.

This jurisdiction ensures that criminal and traffic matters are addressed promptly, reducing backlog in higher courts. The Magistrate Court serves as the first point of contact for legal enforcement, while complex or severe cases are escalated appropriately.

Cases Outside Magistrate Court’s Jurisdiction

Some cases are beyond the authority of the Magistrate Court and must be filed in the Circuit Court. This ensures that serious or high-value disputes are reviewed by the appropriate judicial body.

Magistrate Court cannot handle civil cases over $7,500, felony charges, or major criminal offenses such as murder or armed robbery. Residents with these cases are referred to the Greenville County Circuit Court for further proceedings, while the Magistrate Court continues to focus on smaller claims and preliminary matters.

When to Use Greenville County Small Claims Court

Greenville County Small Claims Court handles civil disputes where the amount in controversy does not exceed $7,500. It is ideal for straightforward cases like unpaid debts, property damage, or landlord‑tenant issues.

What Cases Qualify for Small Claims Court

The Small Claims Court in Greenville County is designed for simpler civil disputes. Typical situations include:

• Unpaid debts: Loans or personal agreements where one party has not paid.
• Property damage: Minor accidents or damage caused to personal or business property.
• Security deposits: Disputes between tenants and landlords over deposits.
• Landlord‑tenant disputes: Rent disagreements, lease violations, or evictions within the magistrate court limits.
• Recovery of personal property (claim & delivery): When someone refuses to return property rightfully yours.
• Simple contract disputes: Small business agreements or personal contracts not exceeding $7,500.
• Trespass or minor property claims: Damage caused by intrusion or negligence.

Cases exceeding $7,500 or involving complex legal issues must be filed in Circuit Court instead.

Benefits of Filing in the Magistrate’s Court

Filing small claims in the Greenville County Magistrate Court offers several advantages:

• Lower costs: Filing fees and attorney involvement are generally reduced.
• Simpler procedures: The process is more informal, allowing individuals to represent themselves without complex legal forms.
• Faster resolution: Cases are typically resolved quickly than in Circuit Court, often in weeks instead of months.
• Accessible dispute resolution: The court helps parties resolve disputes efficiently, whether for landlord‑tenant disputes or minor property claims.

Tip: Many residents benefit from filing small claims for minor property disputes or unpaid rent rather than pursuing lengthy litigation in Circuit Court.

Limitations to Consider

While convenient, Small Claims Court has its restrictions:

• Cannot handle large damages or complex civil litigation.
• Remedies are limited to monetary judgments or recovery of property; no injunctions or punitive damages.
• Not ideal for cases that involve multiple parties, extensive evidence, or complicated contracts.

For cases that exceed $7,500, involve complex contracts, or require broader legal remedies, filing in the Greenville County Circuit Court may be the better option.

Table: Small Claims vs Circuit Court in Greenville County

How to File a Small Claim / Civil Case in Greenville County Magistrate Court

Filing a small claim or civil case in the Greenville County Magistrate Court begins with identifying the correct court and preparing the proper documents. Following the proper court procedures helps ensure that your case proceeds smoothly and that all necessary steps are completed.

Determine the Correct Court Location

Before filing, plaintiffs must identify which Magistrate Court has jurisdiction, which usually depends on the defendant’s address or where the incident occurred, and because Greenville County has seven Magistrate Court locations, checking the correct district is important; Probate Court also receives questions from residents who mix its responsibilities with Magistrate Court matters, but it focuses on estates, guardianships, and related filings rather than civil or small-claims cases, so knowing this distinction helps avoid delays, and residents can use GIS address lookup tools or contact the court clerk to confirm which office handles their case.

Prepare Summons and Complaint

The next step is to prepare the legal paperwork, which typically includes:

• Summons & Complaint (for civil claims)
• Claim & Delivery forms (for property disputes)

These forms outline the nature of the dispute and request a court hearing. Official forms are available from the Greenville County Magistrate Court office, and filling them out clearly can prevent delays.

Submit Filing at the Court

Once the paperwork is ready, the plaintiff submits it at the Magistrate’s Court office. Filing in person is common, and each of the seven courts across Greenville County accepts filings. This step includes:

• Reviewing forms with the clerk
• Paying filing fees (most South Carolina magistrate courts charge modest fees; check with the clerk for exact amounts)

Serve the Defendant

After filing, the defendant must be properly notified. Serving legal papers ensures the defendant has a chance to respond. This can be done through:

• Certified mail
• Sheriff’s service
• Private process server (if allowed)

Proper service is critical for the court to proceed with hearings.

Attend Hearings and Present Evidence

Court procedures require the plaintiff to appear on scheduled hearing dates. Being organized and having all supporting documentation can make a strong case. Steps include:

• Arriving on time
• Presenting clear evidence and witnesses
• Following the magistrate’s directions during the hearing

Judgment and Post-Hearing Options

If the plaintiff wins, the court issues a judgment. The plaintiff can then pursue collection or enforcement through legal channels. Some cases may allow for an appeal if necessary. Knowing your rights and responsibilities after judgment is part of the dispute resolution process.

Traffic Violations, Misdemeanor Hearings & Criminal / Warrant Issues

The Magistrate Court in Greenville County handles minor criminal cases, traffic violations, and preliminary hearings for more serious offenses. It also addresses bond settings and can transfer cases to higher courts when required.

Types of Cases Heard in the Magistrate’s CoThe urt

Greenville County Magistrate Court deals with a range of criminal and traffic matters. Common cases include:

• Traffic Violations: Speeding tickets, running stop signs, and other minor traffic infractions.
• Misdemeanors: Minor theft, simple assault, public disorder, and similar low-level criminal offenses.
• Preliminary Hearings: Initial hearings for felony charges to determine probable cause.
• Warrant Issues: Arrest warrants, bench warrants, and related procedural matters.

Magistrates ensure these cases are processed efficiently while protecting legal rights. Minor offenses are usually resolved quickly, whereas more serious charges may move to the Circuit or General Sessions Court.

Handling Traffic Tickets

Traffic tickets in Greenville County can be resolved directly through the Magistrate Court. Payment options are straightforward:

• Money Order
• Certified Check
• Cash (personal checks are not accepted)

Tickets can be paid in person at the court clerk’s office. Prompt payment helps avoid additional fines, late fees, or potential license suspension. In some cases, traffic offenders may be eligible for traffic school or deferred adjudication, depending on the offense and the court’s discretion.

Jury Trial Rights

Even though the Magistrate Court handles minor criminal cases, defendants still have rights, including the right to a jury trial. Magistrates can summon a jury if the case qualifies for trial by jury. This ensures fairness in proceedings and allows citizens to participate in the legal process. Typically, jury trials in the Magistrate Court involve less complex cases due to the misdemeanor and traffic nature of most cases.

Preliminary Hearings and Bond Settings

Magistrate Court plays a critical role in early criminal proceedings:

• Preliminary Hearings: Determine if there is enough evidence to proceed with felony charges.
• Bond Settings: Establish bail amounts for arrested individuals, considering public safety and flight risk.
• Case Transfers: Serious criminal matters or felonies are transferred to higher courts for full trials.

This system ensures that defendants are treated fairly while allowing the court to manage its caseload effectively. Magistrates provide guidance on legal procedures, ensuring hearings run smoothly and efficiently.

How to Lookup Warrants or Court Records

Most warrant and court record searches in Greenville County start with the Greenville County Public Index. Some magistrate-level warrants do not appear there, so callers often need to reach the court or the Sheriff’s Office for full details. The Public Index is the main online case search tool for Greenville County. It shows civil and criminal filings for many court types. The Clerk’s Office explains that they do not keep copies of Magistrate Court warrants, Municipal Court warrants, or State Grand Jury warrants in this system. Only General Sessions criminal filings stay in the Public Index.

This matters for users because certain arrest warrants or filings handled at the magistrate level may not appear during a name search. In those situations, the next step is to contact the Magistrate Court or the Greenville County Sheriff’s Office Warrant Services Division. Both offices can share accurate status updates and instructions for warrant verification.

Steps to Lookup Warrants or Court Records

A simple process that helps users check case details or confirm warrant status in Greenville County.

Open the Public Index

Start by searching the Public Index through the South Carolina Judicial Department portal.

Run a Search

Use the person’s full name or case number. A name search usually brings up civil filings, criminal cases, and General Sessions records.

Review the Case Detail Page

The Public Index will show charges, filing dates, dispositions, and basic case history.

If No Record Appears

Some filings do not show online. At that point, contact the correct office:

Magistrate Court

• Phone: 864-467-4640
• Address: 301 University Ridge, Suite 5100, Greenville, SC 29601

Greenville County Sheriff’s Office – Warrant Services Division

• Phone: 864-467-5241
• Address: 4 McGee Street, Greenville, SC 29601
• Non-Emergency (After Hours): 864-271-5210

This division handles warrant confirmation, warrant status checks, and inquiries regarding case routing.

What Records Might Be Restricted?

Some information must stay private under South Carolina law. This includes:

• Juvenile cases
• Sealed records
• Expunged cases
• Certain victim-protected filings

Parts of a warrant may also be redacted. Greenville County follows state privacy rules, so not every record is released to the public.

What to Expect at Court: Procedure, Hearings, Jury, Outcomes

Attending Greenville County Magistrate Court involves a clear sequence: filing your case, attending scheduled hearings or trials, and receiving a judgment or verdict. Procedures differ depending on whether the matter is civil, criminal, or traffic-related, and the court operates with a simpler structure compared to higher courts.

Court Procedures and Typical Flow

Cases usually follow a steps process:

1. Filing a Case: Parties submit necessary paperwork, whether for a small claims dispute, traffic violation, or misdemeanor charge.
2. Scheduling: The court sets dates for hearings, conferences, or trials, often providing written notices to involved parties.
3. Hearing or Trial: Matters may be heard by a magistrate (bench trial) or a jury if allowed and requested. Small claims and civil disputes are generally informal, while criminal and traffic hearings follow standard court procedures.
4. Judgment or Verdict: The magistrate issues a ruling or verdict, which serves as the official record. Unlike higher courts, detailed transcripts may not always be available.

Magistrate courts in Greenville County serve as non-record courts for certain cases. This means that while judgments and orders are official, verbatim transcripts of proceedings may not be routinely created.

Civil vs. Criminal Procedures

Civil cases in the Magistrate Court focus on small claims, property issues, contract disputes, and other money-related matters, using a simpler process that feels more direct and less formal. Criminal and traffic cases follow set steps with arraignments, rights advisements, and possible jury trials, giving defendants clear options on how to respond and present their side.

Civil and small claims cases:

• Focus on dispute resolution for money, property, or minor contractual issues.
• Procedures are simplified and informal to encourage efficiency.
• Remedies may be limited; parties should know what relief the court can grant.

Criminal and traffic cases:

• Follow standard procedures, including arraignments, plea entries, and potential jury trials.
• Defendants retain rights such as requesting a jury for eligible offenses.
• Sentencing or fines are formally recorded in court orders.

Advice for Court Participants

To maximize effectiveness at the Greenville County Magistrate Court, parties should:

• Bring all relevant documentation: contracts, bills, notices, or evidence supporting claims.
• Arrive on time: lateness can affect scheduling and case outcomes.
• Understand available relief: remedies in civil matters may be limited, so expectations should align with the court’s authority.
• Prepare for court procedures: know whether your case will involve a bench or jury trial and how hearings typically proceed.

Being familiar with court procedures, small claims filings, and dispute resolution options can reduce stress and help parties participate more confidently. Even though the process is streamlined, preparation ensures better clarity on outcomes and next steps.

Location & Contact Information

Quick answer: There are several Greenville County Magistrate Court offices across Greenville County, each with its own address and contact information. Below is a helpful guide to their locations, hours, and how to visit in person.

Main / County Magistrate Court

• Address: 1103 White Horse Road, Greenville, SC 29605
• Phone: (864) 467‑8825
• Fax: (864) 467‑8830
• Hours: Monday–Friday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
• Notes for Visitors: Parking available onsite; security screening required at entry.

Central / Bond Court

• Address: 4 McGee Street, Room 116B, Greenville, SC 29601
• Phone: (864) 467‑5312
• Fax: (864) 467‑5590
• Hours: Monday–Friday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
• Notes for Visitors: Close to public parking garages; accessible via public transit; arrive early to allow for security checks.

West Greenville Summary Court

• Address: 301 University Ridge, Suite S‑T600, Greenville, SC 29601
• Phone: (864) 467‑4640
• Fax: (864) 467‑4644
• Hours: Monday–Friday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
• Notes for Visitors: Parking nearby; ensure no prohibited items in bags; security screening required.

South Greenville Summary Court

• Address: 445 E. Curtis Street, Simpsonville, SC 29681
• Phone: (864) 467‑8470
• Fax: (864) 467‑8480
• Hours: Monday–Friday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
• Notes for Visitors: Limited onsite parking; accessible by car or local bus; follow security procedures at entrance.

North Greenville Summary Court

• Address: 301 TrailBlazer Drive, Travelers Rest, SC 29690
• Phone: (864) 467‑8600
• Fax: (864) 467‑8431
• Hours: Monday–Friday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
• Notes for Visitors: Parking available; expect security screening; best reached by car.

Taylors‑Area Court

Notes for Visitors: Street parking available; building has security checks; arrive early to handle paperwork.

Address: 2801 Wade Hampton Blvd, Taylors, SC 29687

Phone: (864) 244‑2922

Hours: Monday–Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

FAQ – About Magistrate Court

The Greenville County Magistrate Court handles small civil disputes, traffic tickets, and minor criminal cases. Here are quick answers to common questions residents often have.

What is the maximum amount I can sue for in the Magistrate’s Court?

The maximum amount a person can sue for in the Greenville County Magistrate Court is $7,500, and cases exceeding this limit are handled in Circuit Court. This court is meant for small claims and minor civil disputes, such as property damage, unpaid debts, or minor contract issues, allowing residents to resolve cases quickly without the complexity of higher courts.

Can I appeal a Magistrate’s Court decision?

Decisions from the Magistrate Court can be appealed to the Circuit Court, typically by filing a notice and following South Carolina civil procedure rules. The appeal allows Circuit Court to review the original judgment and, in many cases, conduct a trial de novo where the case is heard as if new, offering a chance to address legal errors or procedural concerns with guidance from an attorney if needed.

Can the Magistrate Court handle felony or large civil cases?

Magistrate Court cannot hear felony cases or civil lawsuits over $7,500, which must be filed in Circuit Court. Its jurisdiction is limited to misdemeanors, traffic violations, and small civil disputes, ensuring minor cases are handled quickly while more serious criminal matters and larger civil claims receive the attention and resources they require in the higher court.

How do I pay a traffic ticket or citation?

Traffic tickets and citations can be paid using money orders, certified checks, or cash, as personal checks are not accepted in the Greenville County Magistrate Court. Payments are usually submitted in person at the court or through any approved online system, and following the instructions on the ticket helps residents avoid late fees or additional penalties while ensuring the payment is processed correctly.

How do I find my nearby Magistrate Court?

Residents can locate their nearest Magistrate Court using Greenville County’s GIS address lookup tool, which provides addresses, contact details, and maps. This makes it simple for anyone to identify the correct court location for filing or attending hearings, helping avoid delays and ensuring court matters are handled efficiently at the proper facility.