About Moore County
Moore County is located in the northern Texas Panhandle, bordered by Hutchinson County to the east, Potter County to the south, and the state of Oklahoma to the north. Moore County seat is Dumas, which is the economic and governmental center of Moore County. Established in 1892 and organized in 1892, Moore County was named after Commodore Edwin Ward Moore, commander of the Texas Navy during the Republic of Texas era. Moore County includes approximately 909 square miles of predominantly flat terrain characteristic of the High Plains. As of recent census estimates, Moore County has a population of approximately 22,000 residents. Moore County is known for its significant agricultural production, particularly wheat, corn, and cattle ranching, as well as its industrial presence through petroleum refining and natural gas processing. Major landmarks include Lake Meredith National Recreation Area portions, Window on the Plains Museum in Dumas, and the extensive agricultural scenes that define Moore County. Moore County Courthouse, located at 715 Dumas Avenue in Dumas, houses the County Clerk's office and other administrative functions. Moore County Assessor's office, responsible for property valuations, operates within Moore County administration building. Moore County Clerk maintains official records including property deeds, marriage licenses, and court documents. Moore County's economy is heavily influenced by energy sector operations, with several major facilities located within its borders, making it a vital contributor to Texas's energy production infrastructure.
- Moore County is known for its significant agricultural production, particularly wheat, corn, and cattle ranching, as well as its industrial presence through petroleum refining and natural gas processing.
Court Records & Case Information
The Access to public records in Moore County is facilitated through the Moore County Court serves the area and is located at 200 E 4th St in Dumas. The court handles civil, criminal, family, and probate cases for the county. Court records and case filings can be requested in person or through the Texas online court portal.
This court oversees a range of cases, including civil, criminal, family law, and probate matters, making it a key hub for accessing judicial records. The Access to public records in Moore County is facilitated through the Moore County Court also processes requests for court records, case filings, and legal documents under Texas public records law.
Sheriff, Police & Law Enforcement
Law Enforcement & Arrests
- Written requests should include the subject's name, date of birth if known, and approximate date of arrest.
- Booking photos and mugshots are generally available through the jail or by formal public information request, though some records may be restricted if they involve ongoing investigations or juvenile offenders.
- Processing fees may apply for copies of reports and records.
- Response times and record availability may vary depending on staff availability and the complexity of the request.
Criminal, Arrest & Jail Records
Courts & Case Records
- Moore County also operates County Court at Law, which handles misdemeanor criminal cases, civil matters between $200 and $250,000, probate matters, and appeals from Justice and Municipal Courts.
- Justice of the Peace Courts in Moore County handle small claims cases up to $20,000, Class C misdemeanors including traffic violations, magistrate functions including warrant issuance, and civil matters.
- Fees for copies typically include $1.00 per page for standard documents and additional charges for certified copies.
- Online case access may be limited, with most records requiring in-person or written requests to the appropriate clerk's office.
Property & Public Records
- Certified copies of recorded documents can be requested from the County Clerk's office for a fee of $5.00 for the first page and $1.00 for each additional page, plus an additional $5.00 for certification.
Vital Records
Vital records for this county include birth, death, marriage, and divorce certificates issued under state vital statistics law.
- Birth certificate fees are $23.00 for the first copy and $22.00 for each additional copy ordered simultaneously.
- Death certificates cost $21.00 per copy.
- Processing times typically range from 6-8 weeks for mail orders, though expedited service is available for additional fees.
- The fee is $81.00, reduced to $21.00 if applicants complete a premarital education course.
- Divorce records (decrees) are maintained by the District Clerk's office in Moore County Courthouse and can be accessed by parties to the divorce or through proper legal channels.
Business & Licensing
Business records, licenses, and permits for this county are processed by the County Clerk and local government offices.
- For formal business entity formation including corporations, limited liability companies (LLCs), limited partnerships, and professional associations, businesses must register with the Texas Secretary of State.