Kelvin Soto, Esq., Osceola Clerk of the Circuit Court & County Comptroller

09/06/2026

John Locke, one of the most influential thinkers of the Enlightenment, believed that every person is born with natural rights, including life, liberty, and property. His ideas helped shape modern democracy and inspired generations to think about the relationship between individual freedom and civic responsibility. Locke argued that laws are at their best not when they limit people unnecessarily, but when they protect the rights and freedoms that allow individuals and communities to thrive.

This Philosophy Sunday, take a moment to reflect on the balance between freedom and responsibility. A strong community depends not only on the rights we enjoy, but also on the respect, fairness, and consideration we show one another. When people work together to uphold these values, they help create a society where everyone has the opportunity to grow and succeed.

How do you think individual freedom and community responsibility work together? Share your thoughts below. ✨

09/06/2026

Did you know? Florida has 68
independently elected Clerks of Court &
Comptrollers.

As your elected Clerk and Comptroller,
Kelvin Soto, Esq., strives to provide critical
services that have a positive impact on
public safety, commerce, and access to
justice in our county.

09/05/2026

On this edition of Clerk’s Plate, we’re celebrating griot, a beloved Haitian dish known for its flavorful, marinated pork that is traditionally slow-cooked and then fried to perfection. Often served with rice, plantains, or pikliz—a spicy pickled vegetable relish—griot is a staple at family gatherings, celebrations, and special occasions throughout Haiti. More than just a meal, it represents hospitality, culture, and the joy of sharing food with loved ones. Here in Osceola County, dishes like griot reflect the rich traditions and diverse cultures that help make our community vibrant and welcoming. Every plate tells a story, and griot is a delicious reminder of the heritage, pride, and connections that bring us together. 🇭🇹❤️

09/04/2026

Yesterday, the Honorable Kelvin Soto, Esq., and the team had the honor of attending the Osceola Stars Award Luncheon and presenting the Rising Star Award. It was also a wonderful experience to present Mr. Martin Levert with the 2026 Community Star Award.

Congratulations to all of this year’s deserving award recipients. Thank you to El Osceola Star Newspaper and the Hispanic Chamber of Metro Orlando for hosting such an incredible event and recognizing the individuals who continue to make a meaningful impact in our community.

09/04/2026

09/04/2026

Stevie said it best — and honestly, it's basically our job description. 😎 Signed ✍️ Sealed 🟡 Delivered 📬 — that's every document recorded, certified, and made official right here at the Clerk's Office. 💛

What do you need signed, sealed, and delivered this week? 👇

09/03/2026

While judges may perform marriage ceremonies, they are not the only officials who can do so. In Florida, marriage licenses are issued through the Clerk's Office, and marriage ceremonies may be performed by judges, certain religious officiants, notaries public, and other individuals authorized by law.

The Clerk's Office can assist couples with obtaining a marriage license and, in many locations, can also perform marriage ceremonies. Understanding the process can help make your journey to "I do" a little smoother.

⚖️ This post is for educational purposes only and is not legal advice. The Clerk's Office cannot provide legal advice or interpret the law as it applies to your specific situation.

09/02/2026

Most people say "mortgage" when they mean their home loan. But in the world of Official Records, a mortgage is something specific — and understanding it explains a lot about what gets recorded and why.
🏠 What a mortgage actually is:
A mortgage is a legal document that pledges real property as security for a debt — usually the loan you took out to buy the property. You keep ownership and live in your home, but the lender gains a recorded lien: a legal claim on the property until the debt is paid. If the loan isn't repaid, that lien is what allows the lender to pursue foreclosure.
🔎 The two sides of the deal:

Mortgagor — the borrower (the property owner pledging the property)
Mortgagee — the lender (the one holding the security interest)

📋 Why it gets recorded:
When a mortgage is recorded in the Official Records, it becomes public notice that a lien exists on that property. This protects the lender's priority and lets anyone — a future buyer, a title examiner, another lender — see that the property carries a debt. Recording is how the claim is made visible to the world.

✅ And when the debt is paid off:
The loan being satisfied doesn't erase the mortgage from the record — remember, the record is corrected by adding to it. The lender records a Satisfaction of Mortgage (or release), a separate document confirming the debt is cleared. That's what shows the lien no longer encumbers the property.

📌 Quick distinction — mortgage vs. deed:

A deed transfers ownership of property. A mortgage doesn't transfer ownership — it creates a security interest in property you already own. Both are recorded, but they do very different jobs.
Bottom line: A mortgage is the recorded link between a property and a debt. Recording it makes the lien public, protects the lender, and keeps the chain of property interests clear for everyone who comes after.

09/01/2026

If you've been summoned for jury duty, it's important to check your juror information before reporting. Your summons will include instructions on how to verify your reporting status, location, and any updates regarding your service. Checking your status in advance can help you avoid an unnecessary trip and ensure you have the most current information available.

Be sure to keep your juror ID number handy, as it may be needed when checking your status online or by phone. Taking a few minutes to verify your jury information can help your service day go more smoothly.

08/31/2026

A motion is a formal written request asking the court to make a decision or take a specific action in a case. Motions can be filed for many reasons, such as requesting a hearing, asking for additional time, modifying an existing court order, or seeking other relief from the court. Once a motion is filed, the judge may review it, schedule a hearing, or issue a ruling based on the circumstances of the case.

The Clerk's Office can accept and process motions for filing, but Clerk's Office staff cannot advise you on which motion to file, how to complete it, or whether filing a motion is appropriate for your situation. If you need legal advice, you should consult a licensed attorney.

Have another question? Let us know in the comments. 💬