CivilCriminalFamilyProbateJuvenileSmall ClaimsTrafficEviction
Shelby County District Court (Fourth Judicial District)
Address
612 Court Street, Harlan, 51537
Phone
Shelby County courts
Filing fees, clerk information, and official court links.
Reviewed Jul 30, 2026 · Official sources
Filing fees
Official fee schedule| Filing type | Fee |
|---|---|
| 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 Shelby County is about the same as nearby counties (median $215 across 6 nearby counties).
Clerk & court records
Shelby County Clerk of District Court
Courthouses in Shelby County
Need papers served or filed in Shelby County? Nationwide Legal, our partner company, handles process service and court filing here.
Official links
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to file a civil case in Shelby County?
The civil filing fee in Shelby County, Iowa is $215.00.
What is the small claims filing fee in Shelby County?
$115.
How much does it cost to file for divorce or a family case in Shelby County?
$285.
Can I e-file court documents in Shelby County?
Yes. E-filing is available through Iowa Judicial Branch eFile.
Is there a free online case search for Shelby County?
Yes. You can look up cases online at iowacourts.state.ia.us.
Where do I file court documents in Shelby County?
Filings go to the Shelby County Clerk of District Court. You can reach the clerk at 712-755-5543.