About Smith County
Smith County is located in the southeastern region of Mississippi, established in 1833 and named after Major David Smith, a veteran of the War of 1812. The county seat is Raleigh, a small city that serves as the governmental and commercial hub of the county. Smith County encompasses approximately 636 square miles of predominantly rural terrain characterized by pine forests, rolling hills, and waterways including the Leaf River. According to recent census estimates, the county has a population of approximately 14,200 residents.
The county is bordered by Jasper County to the north, Jones County to the south, Covington County to the east, and Simpson County to the west. Major landmarks include the Bienville National Forest, which covers portions of the northern section of the county, and the historic downtown district of Raleigh featuring late 19th and early 20th-century architecture. The Smith County Courthouse, located at 123 Main Street in Raleigh, houses the offices of the Circuit Clerk, Chancery Clerk, County Assessor, and Tax Collector.
The county's economy has historically been anchored by timber production, agriculture, and small manufacturing. The Smith County Board of Supervisors oversees county administration from their offices at the courthouse complex. The Chancery Clerk maintains land records, while the Circuit Clerk handles court filings.
The Tax Assessor's office, located in the courthouse, manages property assessments and maintains parcel information. Smith County reflects the character of rural Mississippi with a tight-knit community, strong agricultural heritage, and a slower pace of life compared to the state's metropolitan areas.
Sheriff, Police & Law Enforcement
Sheriff & Law Enforcement
The Smith County Sheriff's Office is responsible for law enforcement in the unincorporated areas of the county. This office, led by the elected sheriff, manages the county jail, processes arrests, and maintains criminal records. The sheriff's office also provides patrol services, investigates crimes, and works closely with local communities to ensure public safety. Notable programs include community outreach initiatives and crime prevention workshops aimed at fostering a safer environment for residents.
Police Departments
Smith County is served by multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Smith County Sheriff's Office and municipal police departments in cities like Taylorsville and Mize. The Taylorsville Police Department and Mize Police Department handle law enforcement within their respective city limits, focusing on local ordinances and community policing. These agencies coordinate with the sheriff's office on major crimes and regional law enforcement initiatives, ensuring comprehensive coverage and response across the county.
Law Enforcement & Arrests
The Smith County Sheriff's Office, led by the elected Sheriff, operates from its headquarters at 301 Main Street in Raleigh, Mississippi 39153. The Sheriff's Office can be reached at (601) 782-4511 and is responsible for law enforcement throughout the unincorporated areas of Smith County, courthouse security, civil process service, and operation of the Smith County Detention Center. The detention facility houses pre-trial detainees and sentenced misdemeanants.
- Citizens may request arrest records by submitting a written request to the Sheriff's Office during regular business hours.
- There may be a reasonable fee for copying and processing records.
- Mugshots and booking photos are generally considered public records in Mississippi and can be requested from the Sheriff's Office, though the agency may require a formal public records request.
- Processing times vary depending on the volume of requests.
Inmate information can be obtained by calling the jail directly at (601) 782-4511 during business hours, as Smith County does not currently maintain a publicly accessible online inmate roster. Visitors seeking information about current inmates should be prepared to provide the inmate's full legal name and date of birth. Within Smith County, the City of Raleigh maintains its own police department providing municipal law enforcement services within city limits.
The Raleigh Police Department works in cooperation with the Sheriff's Office on major investigations and regional task forces. Taylorsville, the county's other incorporated county, is served primarily by the Sheriff's Office with limited municipal enforcement. Arrest records in Smith County are public records under Mississippi Code § 25-61-1 et seq., the Mississippi Public Records Act of 1983.
The Mississippi Department of Public Safety also maintains criminal history information through the Mississippi Crime Information Center, though access to comprehensive criminal records typically requires fingerprint-based background checks for employment or licensing purposes.
Criminal, Arrest & Jail Records
Criminal Records
The criminal records ecosystem in Smith County includes records of felonies, misdemeanors, traffic violations, and sex offender registrations. The Smith County Sheriff's Office and local police departments maintain these records, while the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation provides additional resources for background checks and statewide criminal history searches. Residents can request background checks through the sheriff's office or directly from the Mississippi Department of Public Safety, which offers a comprehensive view of an individual's criminal history within the state.
Arrest Records
Arrest records in Smith County are maintained by the Smith County Sheriff's Office. These records document the details of arrests made within the county, including the charges and personal information of the individuals involved. Residents and attorneys can request access to arrest records by contacting the sheriff's office directly. The information available on a Smith County arrest record includes the date of arrest, charges, and booking details. Access to these records is governed by the Mississippi Public Records Act, which ensures transparency while protecting sensitive information.
Jail & Inmate Records
The Smith County Jail, located in Raleigh, is the primary detention facility for individuals arrested within the county. The booking process involves fingerprinting, photographing, and recording personal information of the detainees. Inmate lookup services are available through the sheriff's office, allowing family members and legal representatives to find information about current inmates. Visitation rules are specific to the facility, with scheduled times and strict guidelines to ensure security.
- The bond and bail process follows Mississippi state laws, allowing for the release of detainees pending trial under certain conditions.
Mugshots & Booking Photos
In Smith County, mugshots are taken and retained by the Smith County Sheriff's Office during the booking process. These booking photos are part of the public record and can be accessed through the sheriff's office or online databases that compile such information. Searching for mugshots can typically be done via the sheriff's website or through third-party services that aggregate public records. Mississippi does not have specific laws for the removal of mugshots from public records, although individuals may petition for removal under certain circumstances.
Courts & Case Records
Smith County's judicial system operates through multiple court levels housed primarily in the Smith County Courthouse at 123 Main Street, Raleigh, MS 39153. The Smith County Circuit Court has general jurisdiction over felony criminal cases, civil matters exceeding $200,000, and appeals from lower courts. The Circuit Clerk's office maintains case records and can be reached at (601) 782-9811. The Eighth Circuit Court District includes Smith County, and court sessions are held regularly in Raleigh.
- The Smith County Chancery Court handles equity matters including divorces, land title disputes, estate matters, guardianships, and civil cases involving amounts between $200 and $200,000.
- Smith County Justice Court handles misdemeanor criminal cases, preliminary hearings for felonies, civil matters up to $3,500, small claims, evictions, and traffic violations.
- The Circuit and Chancery Clerk offices charge fees for certified copies, generally $1.00 per page plus a certification fee.
- Smith County court records may require in-person research or written requests.
The Chancery Clerk's office, reachable at (601) 782-4751, maintains these records and also serves as the county's land records custodian. Two elected Justice Court judges serve the county with courts located in different districts. The City of Raleigh operates a Municipal Court for violations of city ordinances and traffic matters occurring within city limits.
Court records in Mississippi are governed by Mississippi Code § 9-1-47, which establishes that court records are public unless specifically sealed by court order or protected by statute. Citizens may search court records by visiting the appropriate clerk's office during business hours, typically Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Mississippi participates in the statewide Mississippi Electronic Courts (MEC) system, though online access varies by county and record type.
Case searches can be conducted by party name or case number at the clerk's offices.
Property & Public Records
Property and land records for Smith County are maintained by the Chancery Clerk's office, which serves as the Register of Deeds, located at 123 Main Street, Raleigh, MS 39153, phone (601) 782-4751. The Chancery Clerk's land records division maintains and records all instruments affecting real property including warranty deeds, quitclaim deeds, deeds of trust, mortgages, mortgage releases, mechanic's liens, judgment liens, tax liens, easements, rights-of-way, subdivision plats, and other encumbrances.
- Recording fees are established by Mississippi statute and typically include a base fee plus per-page charges.
- While some Mississippi counties offer online property record searches through commercial or county-hosted portals, Smith County's online access may be limited or unavailable.
- Individuals seeking property records should contact the Chancery Clerk's office to inquire about current search options, fees, and whether remote access or in-person research is required.
- Certified copies of recorded instruments are available for statutory fees, essential for real estate closings and title insurance purposes.
These records date back to the county's formation in 1833, with some earlier Spanish and territorial land grants also on file. The office maintains grantor-grantee indices that allow researchers to trace property ownership chains. Mississippi Code § 89-5-21 requires that deeds and other conveyances be recorded to provide constructive notice to third parties.
The Smith County Tax Assessor's office, located in the courthouse, maintains property tax assessment records including ownership information, legal descriptions, assessed valuations, property characteristics, and aerial imagery. The Assessor's office can be reached at (601) 782-4711. Property owners may review their assessments and file appeals during designated periods.
The Smith County Tax Collector is responsible for collecting property taxes based on the Assessor's rolls. The county may maintain Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping data, which can sometimes be accessed through the county's website or by contacting the county administrator's office.
Vital Records
Vital records for Smith County, Mississippi, are maintained at both the county and state levels. Birth and death certificates for events occurring in Smith County can be requested from the Smith County Circuit Clerk's office at 123 Main Street, Raleigh, MS 39153, phone (601) 782-9811. However, the primary custodian of Mississippi vital records is the Mississippi State Department of Health, Vital Records Office, P.O. Box 1700, Jackson, MS 39215-1700. The State Vital Records office maintains centralized birth records from 1912 to present and death records from 1912 to present.
- Birth certificates cost $15 for the first copy and $7 for each additional copy ordered simultaneously.
- Death certificates are also $15 for the first copy and $7 for additional copies.
- Requesters must complete the appropriate application form and provide valid government-issued photo identification.
- Eligible requesters include the registrant (if of legal age), parents named on the birth certificate, legal guardians, spouses, adult children, legal representatives, and individuals with court orders.
- Processing time is typically 4-6 weeks for mail requests, though expedited service may be available for additional fees.
Mississippi vital records statutes (Mississippi Code § 41-57-1 et seq.) govern the confidentiality and release of vital records. Marriage licenses are issued by the Smith County Circuit Clerk's office. Couples must apply in person, provide valid identification and social security numbers, and pay the required fee (typically around $21).
There is no waiting period or blood test required in Mississippi. Divorce records are filed with the Chancery Clerk when a divorce is granted by the Chancery Court. VitalChek, an authorized third-party vendor, offers online ordering of Mississippi vital records through www.msdh.ms.gov, providing faster processing for an additional service fee.
Genealogical researchers may access older vital records subject to statutory confidentiality periods.
Business & Licensing
Business and licensing records in Smith County are maintained by multiple agencies depending on the type of business activity. Assumed name certificates (also called DBAs or "doing business as" filings) for businesses operating in Smith County under a name other than the owner's legal name must be registered with the Smith County Chancery Clerk's office at 123 Main Street, Raleigh, MS 39153, phone (601) 782-4751. Mississippi Code § 75-25-1 et seq. governs assumed name filings, requiring publication in a qualified newspaper and recording with the Chancery Clerk.
- The Secretary of State maintains an online Business Entity Search portal at www.sos.ms.gov where the public can search for registered entities, view basic filing information, registered agents, and status.
- This searchable database is free and accessible 24/7.
These records are public and can be searched at the Clerk's office. For formal business entity formation including corporations, limited liability companies (LLCs), limited partnerships, and professional associations, registration is required with the Mississippi Secretary of State Business Services Division. Smith County businesses requiring specific professional licenses (contractors, healthcare providers, cosmetologists, etc.) must obtain those through the appropriate Mississippi state licensing board.
Sales tax permits are issued by the Mississippi Department of Revenue and are required for businesses selling tangible goods. Building permits, zoning approvals, and certificates of occupancy are handled by county or municipal authorities. The Smith County Building Department or Planning Department, operating under the Board of Supervisors, manages land use, zoning, and construction permits in unincorporated areas, while the cities of Raleigh and Taylorsville maintain their own building inspection and permitting processes.
The Smith County Chamber of Commerce serves as a resource for business development and can provide information about local business opportunities. Contact information for the Chamber can typically be found through county government resources or community websites.
Elections & Voter Records
Elections in Smith County, Mississippi, are administered by the Smith County Circuit Clerk's Office, which serves as the official elections office, located at 123 Main Street, Raleigh, MS 39153. The Circuit Clerk can be reached at (601) 782-9811 for voter registration and election information. Voter registration in Smith County requires completion of a Mississippi Voter Registration Application, available at the Circuit Clerk's office, public libraries, and through the Mississippi Secretary of State's website at www.sos.ms.gov.
- Citizens may request copies of public election records by submitting written requests to the Circuit Clerk under the Mississippi Public Records Act.
Mississippi offers online voter registration through the state's website for citizens with a valid Mississippi driver's license or state ID. The voter registration deadline in Mississippi is 30 days prior to any election. Applicants must be U.S.
citizens, residents of Mississippi and Smith County, at least 18 years old by the next general election, and not disqualified by conviction of certain crimes or adjudication of mental incapacity. Smith County voters can find their polling place by contacting the Circuit Clerk's office or using the polling place locator on the Secretary of State's website. The county operates multiple precinct voting locations throughout Raleigh, Taylorsville, and rural areas.
Election records that are public in Mississippi include voter registration rolls (with some personal information redacted per Mississippi Code § 23-15-47), precinct-level election results, candidate qualifying documents, and campaign finance reports for local candidates. The Circuit Clerk maintains official election results by precinct for federal, state, and local races. Mississippi does not have true absentee voting for all citizens; absentee ballots are available only to qualified voters including those who will be away from their county on election day, persons with temporary or permanent physical disabilities, persons 65 years or older, poll workers assigned outside their precinct, and military personnel.
Absentee ballot applications must be submitted to the Circuit Clerk, with deadlines of 12:00 noon on the Saturday before the election for in-person absentee voting, or by mail postmarked five days before the election. Smith County's voter turnout in the 2024 general election was approximately 55-60%, consistent with typical rural Mississippi county participation rates. The next major election is scheduled for November 3, 2026, featuring U.S.
House of Representatives races and potentially statewide offices depending on Mississippi's election calendar. Municipal elections for Raleigh and Taylorsville are held separately according to municipal election schedules. Mississippi election procedures are governed by Title 23 of the Mississippi Code.
The county's election transparency is moderate, with results publicly posted but limited online real-time data access compared to larger counties.
Economy & Demographics
Smith County's economy is primarily driven by timber production, agriculture, and small-scale manufacturing, reflecting its rural character and abundant forest resources within the Longleaf Pine Belt region. Forestry and wood products constitute the largest economic sector, with numerous timber companies, logging operations, sawmills, and wood processing facilities operating throughout the county. Agriculture includes cattle ranching, poultry farming, row crops, and specialty agricultural products.
- The poultry industry has significant presence with contract growers supplying major processors in the region.
- Smith County's median household income is estimated at approximately $35,000-$40,000, which is below both state and national averages, reflecting the rural nature and limited large-scale employment opportunities.
- The county's location between Jackson and the Gulf Coast provides potential for logistics and distribution growth.
- Tourism related to outdoor recreation, hunting, and heritage sites provides supplemental economic activity, particularly during fall and spring seasons.
The county's unemployment rate typically ranges from 5-7%, fluctuating with seasonal industries and regional economic conditions. Major employers include the Smith County School District, county and municipal governments, healthcare facilities, and retail establishments concentrated in Raleigh. Manufacturing facilities in the county produce wood products, fabricated materials, and component parts for larger industries.
The Bienville National Forest contributes to the economy through timber management, recreation, and hunting leases. Small businesses including restaurants, service providers, and retail shops form the backbone of the local economy in Raleigh and Taylorsville. The Mississippi Development Authority has worked with local officials on economic development initiatives including workforce training, infrastructure improvements along Mississippi Highway 35 and U.S.
Highway 11, and recruitment of light manufacturing. Challenges include limited broadband infrastructure in rural areas, workforce development needs, and competition from larger metropolitan areas for business recruitment.
Transparency Score
Court Records: ⚠️ In-Person Required | Property: ⚠️ Limited Online Access | Arrest/Jail: ⚠️ Phone Inquiry Only | Vital Records: ⚠️ In-Person/Mail | Business: ✅ State Online Search Available | Elections: ⚠️ Contact Clerk Required | Overall Score: 4/10 — Smith County maintains public records access through traditional in-person and phone methods with limited digital infrastructure for online searching.
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Cities & Towns in Smith County
Explore public records for 3 cities and communities in Smith County, Mississippi.
Nearby Counties
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