Wood County Clerk Of Courts Wi serves as the official record-keeper for all court-related documents in Wood County, Wisconsin. Located at 400 Market St. in Wisconsin Rapids, this office manages over 260,000 criminal, civil, and probate case files. It processes roughly 12,000 civil filings each year and issues about 4,300 motor vehicle titles and 1,100 watercraft titles annually. The office operates under Wisconsin Statutes Chapter 61 and enforces state laws related to court procedures, public records, and financial transactions. A secure digital records system launched in 2021 allows residents to access case information, request certified copies, and submit electronic filings online. This system has reduced in-person visits by 35 percent since its introduction.
Office Leadership and Structure
Kimberly Stimac currently serves as the Wood County Clerk of Courts after winning the Republican primary in August 2022 with 5,214 votes (52.3%). She defeated Janel Tepp, who received 4,782 votes (47.7%). Stimac was sworn in on October 3, 2022, for a four-year term. Her campaign focused on modernizing the docket system, improving public access to land records, and enhancing cybersecurity. She pledged to allocate $250,000 for digital security upgrades and launch a quarterly “Ask the Clerk” webinar series to increase transparency. The office supervises 22 full-time staff members and manages a $5.2 million annual budget.
Locations and Service Coverage
Wood County Clerk Of Courts Wi operates five clerk offices across the county. These are located in Wisconsin Rapids, Marshfield, Auburndale, Port Edwards, and Nekoosa. Together, they serve a population of 73,427 residents across 793 square miles. Each location handles an average of 1,100 filings per month. The main office in Wisconsin Rapids processes the highest volume of civil dockets. The distribution of offices ensures both urban and rural communities have access to essential court services. Wood County ranks 39th in clerk offices per capita and 25th in offices per square mile among Wisconsin counties.
Core Services and Public Access
The Wood County Clerk of Courts provides a wide range of services to the public. These include issuing marriage licenses, processing small-claims filings, maintaining land deed records, and handling probate cases. Residents can obtain certified copies of criminal records, civil case files, and property documents. The main counter on the second floor of the Wood County Courthouse offers in-person assistance Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Certified copies are typically ready within three business days. Appointments can be scheduled by calling (715) 421-8484.
Digital Services and Online Portal
Since 2020, Wood County Clerk Of Courts Wi has offered an online portal for residents to request records, track case status, and submit electronic filings. This system supports keyword searches, case number queries, and PDF downloads. It handles over 3,400 inquiries per month. Digital docket access covers cases filed after January 1, 1990. Older records remain in physical archives at the courthouse. Users who cannot find a document online are encouraged to contact the docket help line at (419) 354-9280 or email the office directly. The portal has significantly reduced wait times and improved efficiency.
Election and Political Context
The 2022 election for Wood County Clerk of Courts was highly competitive. Kimberly Stimac, a former deputy clerk, emphasized expanding electronic services and improving digital infrastructure. Janel Tepp, a former municipal attorney, focused on community outreach and public engagement. Voter turnout in the Republican primary reached 48%, with Marshfield precincts showing a 5.1% increase from 2020. Early voting registrations rose by 12%, attributed to outreach at community centers. Stimac’s victory reflected growing public demand for modernized court services and transparent governance.
Budget and Financial Operations
The Wood County Clerk of Courts manages a $5.2 million annual budget. This funding supports staff salaries, technology upgrades, facility maintenance, and public service programs. A portion of the budget is allocated to court fee collection and financial reporting. The office ensures compliance with state financial regulations and maintains transparent records for public review. In 2022, $250,000 was proposed for cybersecurity enhancements to protect sensitive data. These investments support long-term operational stability and public trust.
Public Records and Case Management
As the official repository for judicial documents, the Wood County Clerk of Courts maintains detailed records for the Common Pleas Court and the Sixth District Court of Appeals. The office preserves dockets, motions, judgments, and evidence logs. Over 260,000 case files are stored securely, with digital backups for files created after 1990. Residents can search for land deeds, probate filings, and criminal records through the online system or in person. The office also manages title registrations for vehicles and watercraft, ensuring accurate ownership documentation.
Community Engagement and Outreach
Under Kimberly Stimac’s leadership, the office has launched initiatives to improve community engagement. The quarterly “Ask the Clerk” webinar series allows residents to ask questions about court procedures, record requests, and digital tools. These sessions are recorded and posted online for public access. The office also partners with local libraries and community centers to provide informational materials. Outreach efforts have increased awareness of available services and reduced confusion about court processes.
Technology and Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity is a top priority for the Wood County Clerk of Courts. The 2021 digital records system includes encryption, multi-factor authentication, and regular security audits. The proposed $250,000 upgrade will strengthen firewall protections, update software, and train staff on data privacy. These measures protect sensitive personal information and prevent unauthorized access. The office complies with Wisconsin’s data protection laws and follows best practices for digital recordkeeping.
Marriage Licenses and Vital Records
The Wood County Clerk of Courts issues marriage licenses to eligible applicants. Requirements include valid identification, proof of age, and completion of an application form. Both parties must appear in person unless a waiver is granted. Licenses are valid for 30 days and can be used anywhere in Wisconsin. The office also maintains records of marriages, divorces, and annulments. Certified copies are available for legal, medical, or personal use.
Small Claims and Civil Filings
Small-claims cases in Wood County are processed through the Clerk of Courts office. These involve disputes under $10,000, such as unpaid debts, property damage, or contract disagreements. Filings can be submitted online or in person. The office provides forms, fee schedules, and procedural guides to help residents navigate the process. Case status updates are available through the online portal. Judgments and settlements are recorded and enforced according to state law.
Probate and Estate Services
The Clerk of Courts handles probate filings for deceased individuals’ estates. This includes will validation, asset distribution, and debt settlement. Families can file petitions, submit documentation, and receive court orders through the office. The process ensures legal compliance and protects beneficiaries’ rights. Staff assist with form completion and explain court requirements. Records are maintained for public access and legal reference.
Motor Vehicle and Watercraft Titles
Wood County Clerk Of Courts Wi issues titles for motor vehicles and watercraft. Owners must provide proof of ownership, identification, and payment of fees. Titles are processed within three business days and mailed or picked up in person. The office maintains a database of registered vehicles and boats, which is used for law enforcement and tax purposes. Duplicate titles can be requested if originals are lost or damaged.
Land Records and Deed Searches
Residents can search for land deeds, mortgages, and property liens at the Clerk of Courts office. The online portal allows keyword and parcel number searches for properties in Wood County. Physical records are available for older transactions not yet digitized. Certified copies are used for real estate transactions, legal disputes, and tax assessments. The office ensures accuracy and completeness in all property records.
Hours, Contact, and Location
The main office is located at 400 Market St., Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54495. It is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The phone number is (715) 421-8484. Appointments are recommended for complex requests. The second-floor counter handles walk-in services for record searches, filings, and payments. All locations follow the same hours and service standards.
Related Services and Resources
While the Wood County Clerk of Courts focuses on judicial records, other county departments handle related services. The Wood County Extension office provides agricultural and community development resources. The Treasurer’s Department manages property taxes and real estate transactions. The Register of Deeds handles land records not under the Clerk’s jurisdiction. Residents are encouraged to contact the appropriate office for specific needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I request a certified copy of a court record? You can submit a request online through the Wood County Clerk of Courts portal or visit the main office in person. Include the case number, names of parties, and type of document needed. Certified copies are usually ready in three business days.
Can I file a small claim online? Yes, small-claims filings can be submitted electronically through the online portal. You’ll need to complete the required forms, pay the filing fee, and upload supporting documents. Case updates will be available in your account.
What are the requirements for a marriage license? Both applicants must appear in person with valid ID, proof of age, and complete an application. The license is valid for 30 days and can be used anywhere in Wisconsin. Fees apply and vary by county.
How do I search for a land deed? Use the online docket system to search by property address, owner name, or parcel number. For older records, visit the courthouse or call the office for assistance.
Is my personal information safe in the digital system? Yes, the system uses encryption, secure logins, and regular audits to protect your data. The office follows state privacy laws and invests in cybersecurity upgrades.
What if I can’t find a case online? Cases filed before 1990 may not be digitized. Contact the docket help line at (419) 354-9280 or email the office to request a physical record search.
How do I contact the Clerk of Courts? Call (715) 421-8484, visit 400 Market St. in Wisconsin Rapids, or use the online contact form. Office hours are Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Official Website: https://www.co.wood.wi.us/Departments/Courts/
Phone: (715) 421-8484
Address: 400 Market St, Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54495
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.