Court records in the United States date back to colonial times and provide a wealth of information for genealogists. These records include probate files, land disputes, naturalization records, divorces, criminal cases, and civil lawsuits. Each offers valuable insights into ancestors’ lives, relationships, property ownership, and legal matters. Probate records, for example, list heirs and assets, while naturalization documents trace immigration paths. Over time, court systems evolved from colonial and territorial courts to federal and state jurisdictions, each preserving distinct records. These documents help researchers verify family connections, uncover previously unknown relatives, and better understand their ancestors' social and legal status. Accessible in courthouses, archives, and online databases, court records are essential tools for anyone exploring their family history in the U.S.
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