Sainte Genevieve County

Sainte Genevieve County is located in eastern Missouri along the Mississippi River, approximately 60 miles south of St. Louis. Established in 1812, it is one of Missouri's oldest counties and includes approximately 508 square miles. Sainte Genevieve County seat is Ste. Genevieve, which is also Missouri's oldest permanent European settlement, founded around 1735 by French Canadian colonists. As of the 2020 Census, Sainte Genevieve County has a population of approximately 18,000 residents. Sainte Genevieve County is renowned for its well-preserved French colonial architecture and historic district, which attracts tourists interested in early American history. Major landmarks include the Ste. Genevieve National Historical Park, Felix Valle House State Historic Site, and numerous 18th-century vertical log houses that represent some of the finest examples of French Creole architecture in North America. The Mississippi River forms Sainte Genevieve County's eastern boundary, providing both scenic beauty and historical significance as a transportation corridor. County government offices are primarily located in Ste. Genevieve. Sainte Genevieve County Recorder's office, located at 55 South Third Street in Ste. Genevieve, maintains property deeds and land records. Sainte Genevieve County Clerk's office, also at 55 South Third Street, handles vital records, elections, and business filings. Sainte Genevieve County Assessor, located at the same address in Sainte Genevieve County Courthouse, is responsible for property assessments and tax records. Sainte Genevieve County's economy historically relied on lead mining, agriculture, and river commerce, though tourism now plays an increasingly important role due to Sainte Genevieve County's unique historical character.

The with the Sainte Genevieve County Circuit Court serves Sainte Genevieve County, Missouri and handles civil, criminal, family, and probate cases. The courthouse is located in the county seat of the area. Court records and case filings can be requested in person or through the Missouri online court portal.

Sainte Genevieve County Circuit Court is located in Sainte Genevieve County, Missouri. It is a trial court of general jurisdiction with jurisdiction over civil and criminal cases. The court has jurisdiction over all felony criminal cases, all civil cases involving more than $25,000, all family law cases, and all probate matters. The court also has jurisdiction over appeals from the Associate Circuit Court.

Law Enforcement & Arrests

• Citizens may request arrest records by submitting a written request to the Sheriff's Office or appropriate municipal police department.
• These records can be requested under the Sunshine Law, though some agencies may charge reasonable copying fees.

Jail & Inmate Records

• The bond and bail process follows Missouri state guidelines, allowing for the release of detainees upon payment of bail, which can be arranged through the jail or a bail bondsman.

• Missouri's court system also includes Associate Circuit Court divisions that handle misdemeanors, traffic violations, small claims (up to $5,000), and preliminary hearings.
• Some historical records may not be available online and require in-person research at the Clerk of the Circuit Court's office.
• Certified copies of court documents can be requested from the Circuit Clerk for a fee, typically $2.00 per page plus certification charges.
• For detailed case information, litigants and researchers should contact the Circuit Clerk's office directly, as online records may not include all filing details or sealed documents.

• Many Missouri counties now offer online property record searches, and researchers should check with the Recorder's office to determine if Sainte Genevieve County provides web-based access to recorded documents.
• When available, online searches may allow access to scanned images of recorded instruments, though there may be fees for printing or downloading documents.
• Certified copies of recorded documents can be obtained from the Recorder's office for statutory fees, typically $24.00 for the first page and $1.00 for each additional page.

Vital records for this county include birth, death, marriage, and divorce certificates issued under state vital statistics law.

• Genevieve, MO 63670, phone, or from the state office for Current fees are approximately $15 for a certified birth certificate and $13 for a death certificate when ordered through the state.
• Processing times typically range from 2-4 weeks for mail requests, though expedited service may be available for additional fees.
• The marriage license fee is set by state statute.
• Valid government-issued photo identification is required when requesting vital records.
• Online ordering may be available through VitalChek or similar authorized vendors, though convenience fees apply.

Business records, licenses, and permits for this county are processed by the County Clerk and local government offices.

• This database is free to use and provides basic information about Missouri businesses.
• Sainte Genevieve County Chamber of Commerce, located at 51 South Third Street, can be reached at and provides business information, networking opportunities, and community resources.