About Reynolds County
Reynolds County is located in southeastern Missouri, located in the scenic Ozark highlands region. Established in 1845 and named after Thomas Reynolds, the second governor of Missouri, Reynolds County includes approximately 811 square miles of rugged terrain characterized by rolling hills, clear streams, and dense forests. Reynolds County seat is Centerville, which is the administrative hub for approximately 6,058 residents based on recent population estimates. Reynolds County is one of Missouri's least populated counties, offering a rural character defined by outdoor recreation, timber resources, and agricultural pursuits. Major landmarks include the Black River, which winds through Reynolds County providing exceptional canoeing and fishing opportunities, as well as portions of the Mark Twain National Forest. Reynolds County's governmental operations are managed through several key offices located primarily in Centerville. Reynolds County Recorder, situated at the courthouse on Main Street in Centerville, maintains property records and land documents. Reynolds County Clerk's office handles marriage licenses, elections administration, and various county records. Reynolds County Assessor's office is responsible for property valuations and tax assessment records. Reynolds County's economy historically relied on mining operations, timber harvesting, and agriculture, though tourism related to outdoor recreation has become increasingly important. Reynolds County's remote location and natural beauty make it a destination If you need respite from urban areas, while its small population creates a close community atmosphere where local government remains accessible to residents.
Court Records & Case Information
The Reynolds County Circuit Court serves Reynolds County, Missouri and handles civil, criminal, family, and probate cases. The courthouse is located in the county seat of the county. Court records and case filings can be requested in person or through the Missouri online court portal.
The Reynolds County Circuit Court, situated at 102 Court Street in Centerville, oversees a wide array of cases, including civil, criminal, family, and probate matters.
Sheriff, Police & Law Enforcement
Law Enforcement & Arrests
- For arrest records and booking information, requests must be submitted under Missouri's Sunshine Law (Chapter 610 RSMOs), which governs public records access throughout the state.
- Written requests should be directed to the Sheriff's Office, and while some records are immediately available, certain investigative records may be closed to protect ongoing investigations.
- Mugshots and booking photos are considered public records in Missouri unless specifically exempted, and can be requested from the Sheriff's Office.
- Processing times for records requests vary depending on the complexity and volume of records sought.
Criminal, Arrest & Jail Records
Jail & Inmate Records
- The bond and bail process in Missouri allows individuals to be released from custody pending trial, and details can be obtained from the jail or the Sheriff's Office.
Courts & Case Records
- The Associate Circuit Division handles small claims matters (claims up to $5,000), minor criminal cases, traffic violations, and preliminary hearings in felony cases.
- Fees for copies of court documents vary by document type: certified copies typically cost several dollars per page, while simple photocopies are charged at a lower rate.
- Requests for certified records should be made in writing to the Circuit Clerk, and requesters should provide case numbers, party names, and specific documents needed to expedite processing.
Property & Public Records
- Researchers seeking property records must visit the Recorder's office in person or contact the office to request copies by mail.
- Certified copies of recorded documents are available for a statutory fee, typically around $3.00 for the first page and $1.00 for each additional page, plus certification fees.
Vital Records
Vital records for this county include birth, death, marriage, and divorce certificates issued under state vital statistics law.
- Certified copies of birth certificates cost $15.00 for the first copy and $13.00 for each additional copy of the same record ordered simultaneously; death certificates follow a similar fee structure.
- Processing times vary: in-person requests at the state office may be completed the same day, while mail requests typically take 4-6 weeks.
- VitalChek, an authorized third-party vendor (www.vitalchek.com), offers expedited online ordering for Missouri vital records with additional service fees.
- Marriage licenses are issued by Reynolds Recorder of Deeds of Deeds office, where couples must apply in person with identification and pay the required fee (approximately $58.00).
- Divorce records are maintained by the Circuit Clerk as part of court case files and must be requested through the court system.