Clay County courts

Filing fees, clerk information, and official court links.

Reviewed Jul 30, 2026 · Official sources
Civil filing fee
$215
New civil suit · District Court
E-filing
Available
Through Iowa Judicial Branch eFile
Same-day deadline: 11:59 PM
Case records
Search online
Free public case search
Filing typeFee
Civil lawsuit$215
Small claims$115
Divorce / family$285

Fees depend on case type and amount; confirm with the court before filing. At $215, the civil filing fee in Clay County is about the same as nearby counties (median $215 across 6 nearby counties).

Clerk & court records

Clay County Clerk of District Court
Call the clerk

Courthouses in Clay County

CivilCriminalFamilyProbateJuvenileSmall ClaimsTrafficEviction

Clay County District Court (Third Judicial District)

Address
215 West 4th Street, Spencer, 51301

Need papers served or filed in Clay County? Nationwide Legal, our partner company, handles process service and court filing here.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How much does it cost to file a civil case in Clay County?

    The civil filing fee in Clay County, Iowa is $215.00.

  • What is the small claims filing fee in Clay County?

    $115.

  • How much does it cost to file for divorce or a family case in Clay County?

    $285.

  • Can I e-file court documents in Clay County?

    Yes. E-filing is available through Iowa Judicial Branch eFile.

  • Is there a free online case search for Clay County?

    Yes. You can look up cases online at iowacourts.state.ia.us.

  • Where do I file court documents in Clay County?

    Filings go to the Clay County Clerk of District Court. You can reach the clerk at 712-262-4335.

Clay County District Court, IA: (712) 262-4335, Hours & $215 Filing Fee | 1Court