LETTER TO THE EDITOR: Documents available instantly through new Lee County program

To the Editor:

Lee Clerk customers can now get their official records certified from the convenience of their home computer. The new service produces electronically certified documents, such as affidavits, deeds and marriage licenses.

Now customers don’t have to wait for a paper document to be stamped and mailed, which could take days to receive. You can access the system 24/7, wherever you are in the world.

 The e-certified documents help combat fraud by producing secure, encrypted PDF documents emailed to the customer. It is safer to accept than a stamped document and can be reused as many times as needed, unlike the stamped paper certifications.

Customers can purchase the nonrefundable e-certified records for $8 each at leeclerk.org/ecertify. Each e-certified document may take up to five minutes to produce before being emailed. The records are available to download for up to 30 days after the purchase is made. Prior to purchasing an e-certified record, verify with the receiving agency that it will be accepted.

Customers can still get certified records with the wet seal by visiting the Clerk’s recording department on the second floor of the County Administration Building, 2115 Second Street in Fort Myers.

 The Lee Clerk’s office also has e-certified court records available for purchase through the Court Records Inquiry website, matrix.leeclerk.org.

For more information about e-certified records, visit leeclerk.org/ecertify.

The Florida Constitution established the Clerk of the Circuit Court as a public trustee, responsible for safeguarding public records and public funds. Clerk Kevin Karnes was appointed by Gov. DeSantis and is directly accountable to Lee County residents. In addition to the role of Clerk of the Circuit Court, the Clerk is the County Recorder and Clerk of the Board of County Commissioners, and the Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Auditor for Lee County.

Joseph Abre 

APR, Chief Communications Officer

Clerk of the Court & Comptroller, Lee County