Court Calendar lookup in Shelby County delivers instant access to fast court hearings and dates, letting anyone find a court date, check a hearing schedule, or perform a court calendar search by case number, name, or judge. By entering a case number or party name, users can see today’s court schedule, upcoming court hearings, and the full judicial calendar for each division, all displayed in a clear hearing calendar format. This service answers common questions like how to find a court hearing by name, how to check if a hearing was rescheduled, and how to locate a courtroom for a specific hearing. The interface also supports searching by attorney, court division, or hearing type—whether you need an arraignment hearing, a pre‑trial motion hearing, or a sentencing hearing—so you can quickly pinpoint the exact court date you need without sifting through unrelated entries.
Court Calendar search results include detailed court docket calendar entries such as hearing date, hearing time, courtroom number, and assigned judge, helping users verify today’s court schedule or plan for tomorrow’s court schedule. Whether you are looking for a civil court hearing, a criminal trial, or a family court session, the platform provides a reliable court date lookup by case number and a court schedule lookup by judge. It also flags rescheduled hearings, canceled hearings, and any changes to the court calendar, ensuring that you always have the most current information to attend a virtual court hearing or locate the appropriate courthouse.
How to Search Court Calendar
Searching a court calendar gives you direct access to hearing dates, courtroom assignments, and judge schedules across the Shelby County General Sessions Court system. You can look up a specific case, check today’s court schedule, or browse upcoming court hearings using a case number, party name, attorney name, judge name, court division, or hearing date. The lookup tool sorts results by date, division, or hearing type, showing entries in plain language so you do not need legal training to read them, which can also be verified through official court docket search for complete records. Anyone with a scheduled appearance, a family member checking on a case, or an attorney organizing a docket can use this system to confirm details before traveling to the courthouse.
The search runs on a public database connected to the official court records system, and results refresh based on the latest clerk filings and judicial entries. You can pull up a daily court calendar for one specific courtroom, a weekly court calendar covering all divisions, or a monthly court calendar showing a longer view of court dates. The tool also handles searches for past court dates and future court dates, helping you verify whether a hearing already took place or plan for one that has not yet occurred. Because the system updates throughout the business day, the calendar you see in the morning may differ from the calendar shown in the afternoon.
Official Search Portal: https://www.shelbycountytn.gov/225/General-Sessions-Court
Steps to Search
- Open the Shelby County General Sessions Court page in your web browser using the portal link above.
- Pick the search field that matches what you know, such as case number, party name, attorney name, judge name, or hearing date.
- Type your search term into the correct box, using the exact format shown next to the field (case numbers often use letters and dashes).
- Add a date range if you want results from a specific window, or leave the field blank to see all matching entries.
- Select the court division from the drop-down list if you know the case type, such as civil, criminal, or traffic.
- Press the search button and wait for the system to load the calendar entries tied to your search.
- Review the list of results, paying close attention to the hearing date, hearing time, courtroom number, and assigned judge.
- Write down or screenshot the hearing details you need, and check for any status notes about rescheduling, cancellation, or a courtroom change.
Court Calendar Search
The court calendar search function lets you scan the full list of scheduled hearings held by the Shelby County General Sessions Court Clerk’s Office. Each entry shows the case number, the names of the people involved, the hearing type, the time the matter will be called, and the courtroom where the judge will preside. You can run a narrow search with one piece of information or a broad search that returns dozens of results across multiple divisions. This tool supports both plaintiffs and defendants checking on filings, attorneys preparing their caseload, and members of the public who want to observe a public court proceeding.
Search Court Dates
Searching by court date shows you every hearing set for a particular day, week, or month. Enter the date in the calendar field and the system pulls up all matters scheduled for that session, sorted by time and courtroom. This method works well if you do not know a case number but want to see what hearings the court plans to hold on a day that matters to you. The list also shows hearing statuses, so you can spot canceled hearings, continued hearings, or rescheduled hearings without opening each case file.
Search by Case Number
A case number search returns the exact court calendar entry tied to one legal matter. Each case filed with the Shelby County General Sessions Court Clerk carries a unique identifier that usually includes a year code, a division code, and a sequence number. Typing the full case number into the search box shows every hearing held in that case from filing to disposition. This approach gives the cleanest results when you have the paperwork in front of you and want to confirm a single court date without scrolling through unrelated matters.
Search by Party Name
Searching by party name lets you locate hearings tied to a specific person listed as a plaintiff, defendant, petitioner, or respondent. Type the last name first, followed by the first name, and the system returns all open cases connected to that individual. The search handles common spelling variations and shows middle initials when the clerk’s office has them on file. If more than one person shares the same name, the results list each match with a case number, a date of birth (when public), and the hearing date so you can pick the right record.
Search by Attorney Name
An attorney name search shows every hearing where a specific lawyer appears as the representative of record. Type the attorney’s bar name into the search field and the system displays cases by hearing date, starting with the earliest upcoming entry. This helps clients confirm whether their attorney filed an appearance, and it helps other attorneys check whether a colleague has a conflict on a particular day. Results show the attorney’s role on the case, the hearing type, and the courtroom so you know exactly where to find them on the hearing day.
Search by Judge
A judge search produces the judicial calendar for one specific judge sitting in the General Sessions Court. The result list displays each case assigned to that judge, the hearing time, and the courtroom, sorted by date. This view shows a judge’s daily caseload, weekly caseload, and monthly caseload in one screen, which makes it easy to track patterns or plan around a judge’s availability. You can also use this search to find a courtroom number, since each judge usually sits in the same courtroom across multiple divisions.
Search by Court Division
The court division search displays the entire calendar for a single division of the General Sessions Court. Each division handles a specific case type, such as civil, criminal, or traffic, and operates on its own schedule. Selecting a division from the drop-down menu shows every hearing set in that courtroom pipeline on the date you choose. This search is useful when you know the type of matter but not the specific case number or party name tied to it.
Search by Hearing Date
A hearing date search narrows results to a specific window of time, such as a single day or a date range spanning several weeks. You set the start date and end date in the calendar picker, and the system lists every hearing scheduled between those two points. The list groups entries by date, then sorts by courtroom and time. This method helps attorneys preparing for multiple hearings in a row, parties checking whether a hearing was continued, and observers who want to see what the court plans to address during a busy week.
Court Schedule
The court schedule shows when the General Sessions Court hears cases and how each session fits into the broader Shelby County judicial calendar. Sessions typically begin at 8:30 AM and run until 4:30 PM, Monday through Friday, except on court holidays. Each division sets its own session times, and some special sessions run outside normal hours for arraignments or emergency motions. The schedule updates as judges set new hearing dates, grant continuances, or reassign cases to other courtrooms.
Today’s Court Calendar
Today’s court calendar lists every hearing scheduled for the current business day across all divisions of the Shelby County General Sessions Court. The page refreshes as the clerk’s office enters new filings or judges issue new orders, so the morning calendar may differ from the afternoon calendar. Each entry shows the case number, hearing type, hearing time, courtroom, and assigned judge, making it easy to verify a court date on the same day you plan to attend. You can sort the list by courtroom, judge, or hearing type to find what you need faster.
Daily Court Schedule
The daily court schedule shows a single 24-hour view of all matters set for that business day. This view helps attorneys plan their arrival times, helps parties arrange time off from work, and helps courthouse visitors pick which courtroom to watch. The schedule also flags hearings that have been moved, continued, or canceled, so you do not waste a trip to the courthouse for a hearing that no longer takes place on that date.
Weekly Court Schedule
A weekly court schedule covers Monday through Friday for the current week and the upcoming week, giving a broader view than the daily calendar. The page groups hearings by day, then by courtroom, so you can see how busy each judge will be on any given morning or afternoon. Law firms use this view to plan staffing, and self-represented parties use it to avoid scheduling conflicts with work or family obligations.
Monthly Court Calendar
The monthly court calendar provides a long-range view of court dates spanning four to six weeks. You can use it to plan travel, schedule depositions, or map out a busy caseload without checking the calendar every day. The monthly view highlights court holidays, judicial training days, and special sessions so you know when the courthouse will not hold hearings. Each date links to a daily breakdown that shows the full hearing list for that specific session.
Upcoming Court Hearings
The upcoming court hearings list shows every matter set in the near future, starting with the next available business day and moving forward in time. The list includes pretrial conferences, motion hearings, trial settings, sentencing hearings, and case management conferences. Status flags next to each entry show whether the hearing is confirmed, rescheduled, canceled, or continued, so you always know the current state of the court date before you prepare for it.
Court Sessions and Proceedings
Court sessions are the formal blocks of time during which a judge calls cases and hears arguments. A session may last a full morning, a full afternoon, or both, depending on the number of cases set. The court calendar displays session start times and the types of proceedings expected during each block, which helps visitors understand the order of business for the day. Some sessions are open to the public, while others, such as juvenile hearings or confidential family matters, may be restricted by law.
Court Hearing Information
Court hearing information is the core data the calendar shows for every matter on the docket. Each entry includes the date, time, courtroom, case type, hearing type, assigned judge, and current status. Reading these fields correctly helps you avoid showing up at the wrong time, in the wrong place, or on the wrong day. The next sections explain each field so you can decode any calendar entry you see.
Hearing Date and Time
The hearing date shows the calendar day on which the judge will hear the matter, and the hearing time shows when the case will be called. Some hearings have a firm time, while others are placed on a docket to be called in order after earlier matters finish. Arraignment hearings and bond hearings often have firm times, while motion hearings and status hearings may run later in the morning or afternoon if the court runs behind. Always plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early so you can pass through security and find the courtroom before your case is called.
Courtroom Number
The courtroom number tells you exactly where in the courthouse the judge will preside over the hearing. The Shelby County General Sessions Court operates multiple courtrooms at the main courthouse address, and each courtroom specializes in a specific type of matter. The number appears next to the hearing entry on the calendar, and signs throughout the building direct visitors to each courtroom. If the calendar shows a courtroom change, that update overrides any earlier notice, so always recheck the calendar the day of your hearing.
Court Location
The court location field shows the physical address of the courthouse where the hearing will take place. Most General Sessions Court hearings in Shelby County take place at the main courthouse building, but some matters are held at satellite locations. The calendar entry includes the building name, street address, and any room number needed to reach the correct courtroom. If you are unsure where to go, the courthouse lobby has posted maps and clerks on duty who can answer questions.
Case Number
A case number is the unique identifier the court assigns to a legal matter when the case is first filed. The number usually contains the year, a division code, and a sequence number, and it stays with the case for its entire life. On the court calendar, the case number appears in the left column and links to the full case file. Always confirm the case number when you call the clerk or arrive at the courthouse, because two parties can share similar names but only one will match the case number on file.
Case Type
The case type field tells you what kind of legal matter the court is handling, such as civil, criminal, family, probate, juvenile, misdemeanor, felony, or traffic. Each case type has its own set of procedures, paperwork requirements, and hearing schedules. The case type appears on every calendar entry and helps the court sort matters into the right courtroom pipeline. Knowing the case type also helps you prepare the right documents and bring the right witnesses for the hearing.
Hearing Type
The hearing type field describes the specific purpose of the court session, such as arraignment, pretrial conference, motion hearing, status hearing, trial, sentencing, or case management conference. Each hearing type has its own rules about what the judge will address, what evidence the parties may present, and what outcome the court can order. The hearing type appears in plain language on the calendar so you can prepare without needing a lawyer to translate the entry.
Assigned Judge
The assigned judge field shows the name of the judicial officer who will preside over the hearing. Each General Sessions Court judge handles a specific division and courtroom, and the calendar reflects that assignment. Knowing the assigned judge helps attorneys prepare based on that judge’s known preferences and procedures. The judge name also helps visitors locate the correct courtroom, since the courtroom number usually corresponds to the judge’s assignment.
Hearing Status
The hearing status field shows the current state of the scheduled court date. Status options include scheduled, rescheduled, canceled, continued, postponed, or held. The status updates as the court issues new orders, and the calendar reflects the latest entry from the clerk’s office. Always check the status before you leave for the courthouse, because a status change can move your hearing to a new date, a new time, or a different courtroom.
Court Hearings by Case Type
The Shelby County General Sessions Court handles several categories of cases, and each case type follows its own path through the judicial system. The court calendar sorts hearings by case type so you can see the schedule for the specific matter you are following. Below is a breakdown of the main case types and how their hearings appear on the public calendar.
| Case Type | Description | Typical Hearings |
|---|---|---|
| Civil | Disputes between private parties, such as contract claims, debt collection, and personal injury matters. | Motion hearings, pretrial conferences, bench trials, jury trials |
| Criminal | Matters brought by the State of Tennessee against a person accused of a criminal offense. | Arraignments, pretrial hearings, motion hearings, trials, sentencing hearings |
| Family | Domestic relations matters such as divorce, child support, and custody. | Status hearings, motion hearings, final hearings |
| Probate | Cases involving wills, estates, and the administration of a deceased person’s property. | Petition hearings, status hearings, final settlement hearings |
| Juvenile | Matters involving minors, including delinquency and status offenses. | Initial appearances, detention hearings, adjudicatory hearings, disposition hearings |
| Traffic | Traffic citations and misdemeanor driving offenses. | Arraignments, motion hearings, bench trials |
Civil Court Hearings
Civil court hearings resolve disputes between private parties, including breach of contract, property damage, debt collection, and personal injury claims. The General Sessions Court handles civil matters up to a specific dollar limit set by Tennessee law. Civil hearings on the calendar include motion hearings, pretrial conferences, and bench or jury trials. Each entry shows the parties’ names, the amount in controversy if listed, and the relief sought, so visitors can understand the nature of the dispute.
Criminal Court Hearings
Criminal court hearings address charges filed by the State of Tennessee against a person accused of breaking the law. The General Sessions Court handles misdemeanors, felonies at the preliminary stage, and bond matters. Calendar entries show the defendant’s name, the charges, the arresting agency, and the assigned judge. Public visitors can watch most criminal hearings unless the judge closes the courtroom for a specific reason allowed by law.
Family Court Hearings
Family court hearings cover domestic relations matters, including divorce, parenting plans, child support, and orders of protection. These hearings often run on a separate docket and may not appear on the public calendar in full detail to protect the privacy of the family involved. The calendar may show the case number, the hearing type, and the courtroom, but the names of the parties may be limited to initials in sensitive cases.
Probate Court Hearings
Probate court hearings address the administration of a deceased person’s estate, including the probate of wills, the appointment of executors, and the distribution of assets. Some probate hearings are public, while others, such as those involving minor beneficiaries, may be sealed, which can also be verified through official court data for complete records. The court calendar shows the case number, the hearing type, and the assigned judge for each scheduled session.
Juvenile Court Hearings
Juvenile court hearings involve minors accused of delinquent acts or status offenses. Tennessee law treats most juvenile records as confidential, so the public calendar may show limited information for these hearings. The case number, hearing type, and assigned judge typically appear, but party names may be replaced by initials. Visitors must follow the judge’s instructions about attending juvenile hearings, and the courtroom may be closed to the public at the judge’s discretion.
Misdemeanor Hearings
Misdemeanor hearings address lower-level criminal charges such as simple assault, petty theft, or first-offense DUI. The General Sessions Court has jurisdiction over most misdemeanors in Shelby County. The calendar shows the charge, the defendant’s name, the hearing type (often arraignment, pretrial, or trial), and the courtroom. Defendants must appear at every scheduled misdemeanor hearing unless the court grants a written excuse.
Felony Hearings
Felony hearings take place at the General Sessions Court level for preliminary matters such as arraignment, bond setting, and preliminary hearings. After the General Sessions Court finds probable cause, felony cases move to the Criminal Court division for trial. The calendar shows the felony charges, the defendant’s name, and the stage of the case. Public visitors can attend most felony hearings unless the judge orders the courtroom closed.
Traffic Court Hearings
Traffic court hearings handle citations such as speeding, running a red light, or driving without a license. The calendar lists each citation by case number and shows the defendant’s name, the violation, and the courtroom where the matter will be heard. Drivers can contest a citation, present evidence, or pay the fine at the scheduled traffic hearing. Some traffic matters may also be resolved by mail or online if the court allows it.
Types of Court Hearings
Each hearing on the court calendar has a specific purpose, and the hearing type tells you what the judge will address during that session. The list below covers the most common hearing types in the Shelby County General Sessions Court and explains what usually happens at each one. Knowing the hearing type helps you prepare the right paperwork, bring the right witnesses, and arrive ready to address the legal issue at hand.
Arraignment Hearings
An arraignment hearing is the first formal court appearance for a criminal defendant. At this hearing, the judge reads the charges, confirms the defendant’s identity, and reviews the defendant’s rights. The defendant enters a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest, and the judge sets the conditions of release or bond. The court calendar lists arraignment hearings with a firm time because the defendant must appear in person unless the court allows a written waiver.
Pretrial Hearings
Pretrial hearings give the attorneys and the judge a chance to address issues before trial. The court may hear motions to suppress evidence, motions to dismiss, motions in limine, or discovery disputes. The parties may also discuss plea offers or schedule a trial date. Pretrial hearings appear on the calendar with the case number, the attorneys’ names, and the courtroom where the matter will be called.
Motion Hearings
A motion hearing is a short court session where the judge considers a specific request filed by one of the parties. Common motions include motions to continue, motions to compel discovery, and motions to modify bond. The court calendar shows the moving party, the type of motion, the response deadline, and the courtroom where the judge will hear argument. Each side usually has a set amount of time to speak before the judge issues a ruling from the bench.
Status Hearings
A status hearing checks on the progress of a case and confirms that the parties are ready for the next step. The judge may set deadlines, schedule a pretrial conference, or order the parties to mediation. Status hearings are usually short and often handled in batches at the start of the docket. The court calendar shows the status hearing date, the case number, and the courtroom so the parties know when to appear.
Trial Hearings
A trial hearing is the formal proceeding where each side presents evidence and arguments. In the General Sessions Court, trials may be bench trials (decided by the judge) or jury trials (decided by a panel of jurors). The calendar lists the trial date, the case number, the attorneys of record, and the courtroom. Trial hearings often take more than one session, so the calendar may show multiple consecutive dates for the same case.
Sentencing Hearings
A sentencing hearing takes place after a defendant pleads guilty or no contest, or after a jury returns a guilty verdict. The judge hears arguments about the appropriate punishment, reviews any pre-sentence report, and imposes a sentence. The court calendar shows the sentencing date, the defendant’s name, the case number, and the courtroom. Victims may have the right to speak at a sentencing hearing, and the parties may present evidence in mitigation or aggravation.
Initial Appearances
An initial appearance is the first time a defendant appears before a judge after an arrest. The judge reviews the charges, sets a bond amount, and appoints an attorney if the defendant cannot afford one. Initial appearances often take place within 24 to 48 hours of an arrest. The calendar shows the defendant’s name, the charge, the bond amount, and the courtroom where the judge will conduct the hearing.
Case Management Hearings
A case management hearing sets the schedule for the rest of the case, including deadlines for motions, discovery, and trial preparation. The judge reviews the case file, hears from both sides, and enters a scheduling order. Case management hearings appear on the calendar with the case number, the attorneys’ names, and the courtroom. These hearings help the court manage its docket and keep cases moving toward resolution.
Court Calendar by Judge and Division
The court calendar breaks down by judge and division, which makes it easier to find the specific judicial officer handling your matter. Each General Sessions Court judge presides over cases in a specific division and courtroom, and the calendar reflects those assignments. You can look up a judge by name or browse a division to see every hearing scheduled in that courtroom pipeline.
Judge Court Schedules
A judge’s court schedule lists every hearing assigned to that judicial officer for a chosen day, week, or month. The list shows the case number, the hearing type, the time, and the courtroom. Lawyers use these schedules to prepare their arguments based on the judge’s known preferences, and parties use them to confirm the judge handling their case. The schedule updates each business day as the clerk’s office enters new filings.
Court Division Schedules
A court division schedule lists every hearing set in a specific division, such as Civil Division 1, Criminal Division 2, or Traffic Division. Each division operates on its own docket and may have different session times. The division schedule groups hearings by day and courtroom so visitors can see how busy a particular division will be during a given week.
Assigned Courtrooms
Each judge sits in an assigned courtroom, and the calendar lists that courtroom number next to every hearing entry. Courtroom assignments help visitors find the right room and help the clerk’s office manage paperwork. If a judge moves to a different courtroom for a day, the calendar shows the new courtroom number next to each affected hearing so visitors do not show up in the wrong place.
Judicial Calendar Information
The judicial calendar provides a high-level view of the court’s schedule, including court holidays, judicial training days, and special sessions. This information helps attorneys plan their caseload and helps the public understand when the courthouse will not hold hearings. The judicial calendar also lists judges on assignment, judicial recusal schedules, and any temporary duty assignments.
Division-Specific Hearing Dates
Division-specific hearing dates show the schedule for a single division on a particular date. The page lists every case set in that courtroom on that day, sorted by time. This view helps the judge manage the docket and helps visitors find the matters they want to watch. The division-specific view also shows status updates, such as continuances and cancellations, so the schedule reflects the latest orders.
Court Calendar Changes
Court calendars change frequently as judges issue new orders, attorneys file motions, and parties reach agreements. The Shelby County General Sessions Court tracks every change in the clerk’s office and pushes updates to the public calendar as quickly as possible. The list below covers the most common types of calendar changes and how they appear on the docket.
Rescheduled Hearings
A rescheduled hearing is one that the judge has moved to a new date and time. The calendar shows the new date in the hearing time field and flags the entry as rescheduled so visitors know the matter has moved. Rescheduling can happen for many reasons, including attorney conflicts, witness availability, or judicial scheduling issues. Always recheck the calendar after a rescheduling notice to confirm the new date.
Canceled Hearings
A canceled hearing is one that the court will no longer hold, usually because the parties settled the matter, the charges were dropped, or the judge found no reason to proceed. The calendar shows the canceled status next to the entry and removes the hearing from the active docket. If your case is canceled, you do not need to appear, and the court will issue any paperwork needed to close the matter.
Continued Hearings
A continued hearing is one that the judge has postponed to a later date, often to give the parties more time to prepare. The calendar shows the new date and flags the entry as continued. Continued hearings are common in civil and criminal cases when one side needs additional time for discovery, motion practice, or plea negotiations.
Postponed Court Dates
A postponed court date is one that the court has moved to a later date at the request of a party or on the judge’s own motion. The postponement appears on the calendar with the new date and a status note explaining the reason if the court provides one. Postponed court dates are similar to continued hearings but often apply to a broader range of matters, including trials and sentencing hearings.
Changed Hearing Times
A changed hearing time occurs when the judge moves a hearing to a different time on the same day, usually because of docket congestion or attorney conflicts. The calendar shows the new time in the hearing time field and flags the entry as updated. If you arrive at the original time, you may miss your case, so always recheck the calendar the morning of the hearing.
Courtroom Changes
A courtroom change happens when the judge moves a hearing to a different courtroom, often because of maintenance issues or judicial reassignment. The calendar updates the courtroom number and flags the entry so visitors know where to go. The courthouse lobby also posts courtroom changes on the daily docket board, but the online calendar is the fastest source.
Calendar Status Updates
Calendar status updates cover any change to the hearing record, including rescheduling, cancellation, postponement, or a courtroom change. The clerk’s office enters these updates as soon as the judge issues the order, and the public calendar reflects the change within the same business day. Status updates may also include notes about whether the change was requested by a party or ordered by the court.
Court Locations and Hearing Access
Knowing the court location and how to access your hearing is just as important as knowing the hearing date. The Shelby County General Sessions Court operates from a main courthouse address and offers both in-person and virtual hearing options for many matters. The information below covers building details, courtroom locations, directions, parking, and remote hearing access.
Court Building Information
The main courthouse for the Shelby County General Sessions Court sits in downtown Memphis and serves as the primary location for most hearings. The building houses multiple courtrooms, the clerk’s office, the public waiting area, and security screening at every public entrance. Visitors should plan to arrive early enough to pass through security and find the correct courtroo
m before their hearing is called.
Courtroom Locations
Courtrooms inside the courthouse are numbered and located on specific floors. Each courtroom has a nameplate showing the judge’s name and the division the courtroom handles. The public calendar lists the courtroom number for every hearing, and signs in the courthouse hallways point visitors in the right direction. If you cannot find your courtroom, ask a sheriff’s deputy in the lobby or check the daily docket board.
Finding the Correct Court
Finding the correct court starts with checking the case type, the case number, and the assigned judge on the public calendar. Once you have those details, look for the courtroom number and head to that location inside the courthouse. The clerk’s office window can also help you confirm the correct courtroom if you have your case number ready when you arrive.
Directions and Parking Information
The main courthouse sits near the intersection of Adams Avenue and other downtown Memphis streets, with public parking garages within walking distance. Visitors should allow extra time for traffic, parking, and security screening, especially during morning hours when the docket is busiest. Public transit options also serve the downtown area, and ride-share drop-off is available at the courthouse entrance.
Virtual Court Hearings
Virtual court hearings allow participants to appear by video or phone instead of in person. The court uses a remote hearing platform, and parties receive a link or dial-in number with their notice. Virtual hearings apply to many civil, criminal, and traffic matters, but the judge may require in-person attendance for trials, sentencings, or other specific hearings.
Remote Hearing Access
Remote hearing access lets parties, attorneys, and witnesses join a hearing from any location with a stable internet connection. Participants should test their equipment before the scheduled time and dress as if they were appearing in person. The court may record the hearing, and the same rules of conduct apply whether you appear in person or by video.
In-Person Hearing Requirements
In-person hearing requirements include passing through courthouse security, arriving on time, and following courtroom rules on dress and conduct. Visitors should bring a valid photo ID and any paperwork tied to their case. Cell phones must be silenced in the courtroom, and recording devices are not allowed without the judge’s permission. If you need an interpreter or another accommodation, contact the clerk’s office before your hearing date.
Reading a Court Calendar
Reading a court calendar entry takes practice, but the format is consistent once you understand the basic fields. Each entry contains a case number, party names, hearing date, hearing time, hearing type, judge, courtroom, and status. The information below explains how to read each field and how to spot common abbreviations used in the docket.
Case Number and Party Names
The case number sits at the start of the calendar entry and serves as the unique identifier for the matter. Party names appear next to the case number, with the plaintiff or petitioner listed first and the defendant or respondent listed second. In criminal cases, the State of Tennessee appears as the plaintiff, and the defendant’s name appears as the defendant. Family and probate cases often use initials to protect privacy.
Hearing Date and Time
The hearing date shows the calendar day in month/day/year format, and the hearing time shows when the matter will be called in 24-hour or 12-hour format. Some hearings carry a firm time, while others sit on the docket to be called in order. If your time slot looks different from what you expected, check the status field for notes about a reschedule or a continuance.
Hearing Type and Purpose
The hearing type appears in plain language, such as “Arraignment,” “Motion Hearing,” or “Trial.” The purpose of the hearing is implied by the type, but the calendar may also include a brief note about the specific motion or issue. Knowing the hearing type tells you what to prepare and what to expect when the judge calls your case.
Judge and Courtroom
The assigned judge appears by name, and the courtroom number appears next to or below the judge name. The judge and courtroom pair stays consistent for most matters, but the calendar will show updates if either changes. Always look at both fields because a change in the judge or courtroom can affect where you need to go and how the matter will proceed.
Calendar Status
The calendar status shows the current state of the hearing, such as “Scheduled,” “Rescheduled,” “Canceled,” or “Continued.” The status field updates as the court enters new orders, and the public calendar reflects those updates within the same business day. Reading the status carefully helps you avoid showing up for a hearing that has been moved or canceled.
Court Calendar Abbreviations
The court calendar uses standard abbreviations to keep entries short. Common abbreviations include “Arraign.” for arraignment, “Pre-tri.” for pretrial, “Mot.” for motion, “Status Hrg.” for status hearing, “Bench Trial” for a trial decided by the judge, and “Jury Trial” for a trial decided by a jury. Some entries also use “CtRm” for courtroom, “Hrg” for hearing, and “Def” for defendant, which can also be verified through official case online records for complete records. If you cannot decode an abbreviation, the clerk’s office can help you translate it.
Missing or Unavailable Court Dates
Sometimes a court date you expected to see on the calendar does not appear, or the entry shows limited information. This can happen for several reasons, and the explanations below cover the most common causes. If you cannot find your hearing on the calendar, try these steps before assuming the matter has been canceled.
Why a Hearing May Not Appear
A hearing may not appear on the calendar for several reasons. The clerk’s office may not have entered the order yet, the case may have been sealed, or the matter may be scheduled in a different court system. Some hearings, such as emergency motions or ex parte requests, may be set on short notice and not yet reflected on the public calendar. If your hearing is missing, contact the clerk’s office with your case number to confirm the next steps.
Recently Scheduled Hearings
Recently scheduled hearings sometimes take a day or two to appear on the public calendar because the clerk’s office must enter the order and update the docket. If your hearing was set in the past 48 hours, give the system time to refresh before assuming the matter is missing. The clerk’s office can also confirm whether the hearing is on the books even if it has not yet appeared online.
Recently Changed Court Dates
Recently changed court dates may show the old date briefly before the system refreshes with the new date. If you checked the calendar earlier in the day and the entry looked correct, check again before you leave for the courthouse. Status notes next to the entry should also indicate whether the court has moved the matter to a different date or time.
Restricted or Confidential Hearings
Restricted or confidential hearings do not show full details on the public calendar. Juvenile cases, sealed records, and certain family matters may be limited to a case number and a hearing type, with party names hidden to protect privacy. If your matter falls into one of these categories, the clerk’s office or your attorney can give you the specific details you need.
Calendar Update Delays
Calendar update delays can happen during heavy filing periods, court holidays, or system maintenance. The clerk’s office works to enter new orders as quickly as possible, but delays of a few hours or even a day can occur. If the calendar looks out of date, contact the clerk’s office directly to confirm your hearing details before relying on what you see online.
Where to Confirm a Court Date
If you cannot confirm a court date using the public calendar, contact the clerk’s office by phone during regular business hours. Have your case number ready, along with your full name and date of birth if you are a party to the case. The clerk’s office can verify the hearing date, time, courtroom, and assigned judge, and they can flag any updates that have not yet appeared on the public calendar.
Court Calendar and Related Court Information
The court calendar is one of several tools the public can use to find information about a Shelby County General Sessions Court case. Other tools include the court docket, the case search system, and the court records database. Each tool serves a slightly different purpose, and knowing the difference helps you pick the right one for your needs.
Court Calendar vs. Court Docket
The court calendar shows the schedule of hearings set for a particular day, week, or month. The court docket shows the full chronological list of filings, motions, and orders entered in a specific case. Use the calendar to find when a hearing will take place, and use the docket to review what has already happened in the case. Both tools work together to give you a complete picture of a matter.
Court Calendar vs. Case Search
The court calendar focuses on hearing dates and schedules, while the case search system focuses on the parties, attorneys, charges, and dispositions tied to a case. Use the calendar to plan your visit to the courthouse, and use case search to confirm basic facts about the matter. Many users start with the calendar and then move to case search for deeper details.
Court Calendar vs. Court Records
Court records include the full file of pleadings, orders, and exhibits filed in a case. The calendar only shows hearing dates and limited details, while court records provide a deeper view of the legal arguments and evidence. Some court records are public, while others are sealed by law. If you need copies of specific documents, the clerk’s office can help you request them.
Hearing Dates vs. Case Filing Dates
A hearing date is the day the court will address a matter, while a case filing date is the day the case was first opened with the clerk’s office. The filing date marks the start of the case, and hearing dates mark each step along the way. Many cases have a filing date months or years before the first hearing, especially in civil and probate matters where the parties need time to gather evidence.
Shelby County General Sessions Court – Clerk’s Office
- Location: 140 Adams Avenue, Room 106, Memphis, TN 38103
- Contact Number: (901) 222-3400
- Office Hours: Monday-Friday: 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are quick answers for finding and using the Shelby County General Sessions Court Calendar.
How can I search the Shelby County court calendar?
Visit the official Shelby County General Sessions Court website and click the Court Calendar link. The online portal lets you enter a case number, party name, attorney name, judge name, or hearing date. Results appear in a list that shows the hearing type, time, courtroom, and any notes. You can sort by date or division to narrow the view. If you need help, call the clerk’s office at (901) 222‑3400 during business hours.
How do I find today’s court schedule?
Open the court’s online calendar and select the “Today” filter. The page will display every hearing scheduled for the current date, including the time, courtroom number, and judge assigned. The list updates automatically if a hearing is added or changed. For a printed copy, you may request one at the clerk’s desk in Room 106, 140 Adams Avenue, during normal office hours.
Can I look up a hearing by case number?
Yes. In the search field of the Court Calendar portal, type the full case number and press Enter. The system returns all entries linked to that case, showing upcoming and past hearing dates, types, and locations. If the case number is incomplete, the search may not return results, so double‑check the digits. For assistance, call the clerk’s office or visit in person.
What if a court date is missing from the calendar?
If a hearing does not appear, first verify the case number or party name used in the search. Some dates are entered later or may be pending a judge’s assignment. Contact the clerk’s office at (901) 222‑3400 to confirm the status. They can tell you whether the hearing is scheduled, postponed, or still being processed, and they can provide the correct date if available.
How can I attend a virtual hearing in Shelby County?
Log in to the court’s online portal and locate the specific hearing entry. If the hearing is marked as virtual, a link to the video platform will be provided next to the hearing details. Click the link a few minutes before the start time and follow the on‑screen instructions to join. You will need a stable internet connection, a webcam, and a microphone. If the link is missing, call the clerk’s office for guidance.