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Mississippi Public Records

Finding and requesting a public record can be a chore, mostly because records are scattered across multiple state agencies. With the help of this guide, it should be easier to locate what you’re looking for.

It can be confusing as some offices do not allow walk-in requests and require you to mail, email or fax.

However, other things most states typically list as private, such as government employee salary, are listed as public. Those needing to access records have a right to submit a request through the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).

Every state has different processes, so it’s essential to know the state’s law before requesting any documents.

• Criminal Records
• Court Records
• Inmate Records
• Vital Records

What does the Mississippi public records law say?

The Mississippi Public Records Act is a succession of laws designed to allow the general public access to public records.

These open records include books, papers, letters, accounts, photographs, maps, cards, films, documentary materials, and other data required to be maintained by any public body.

All state agencies are subject to the law.

Exemptions include employment applications, personnel matters, tax records of an individual, academic examination questions, information regarding the purchase or sale of property for public purposes, and attorney work product concerning the litigation.

Anyone can publicly request access to Mississippi’s public records. You do not have to state a reason for your request. There are no restrictions placed on the use of records either.

The Mississippi Public Records Act says state departments have seven business days to respond to a records search.

However, departments may establish their time limits of fourteen working days.

To learn more about freedom of information in Mississippi, visit Mississippi.gov.

How can I access public records in Mississippi?

Some records can be accessed online, while others must be formally requested. If a request is necessary, the form can be delivered via mail, email, or phone to the record-holding department.

Every department is different, so expect some variation to the rules if you access records from multiple places.

In general, a public records request should include:

• Your name
• Parties name
• Contact information
• The name of the document
• Details about the document
• A time frame that you would like to receive the materials by
• Document delivery method, mail or email

Mississippi Criminal Records

Criminal activities can be found easily through a criminal record search. Mississippi criminal records are usually assembled from various sources and compiled into one database, where they are availed to the public.

The Department of Public Safety Criminal Information Center (CIC) maintains criminal records in Mississippi.

What’s on a Mississippi criminal record?

A criminal record provides a detailed record of a person’s interactions with law enforcement. These records are pulled from various sources and include arrest records, convictions, and incarcerations within the state’s four prisons.

The Mississippi criminal records may not include traffic violations or misdemeanors.

More specifically, a criminal record or a background check will provide the following information:

• Date of birth
• Photograph/mugshot
• Fingerprints
• Current and past addresses
• Former arrest records
• Current and past warrants
• Arrest report

Where can I find Mississippi criminal records?

The Mississippi Department of Public Safety (MDPS) is the parent agency of the Criminal Information Center (CIC), serving as the administrator for criminal history improvement programs for the State of Mississippi.

You can access Mississippi Criminal Records through various third-party searches.

You can contact the law enforcement agency to inquire about local background checks.

The department’s mission is to maintain a repository of criminal records and provide fingerprint-based identification services to law enforcement and other criminal justice entities in the State of Mississippi and throughout the United States.

These generated criminal background reports may be accessed online, from local sources, or through the official Mississippi State Records Online Database.

Mississippi Inmate Records

Persons who commit offenses in Mississippi are taken to correctional facilities such as prisons, jails, and penal institutions.

Requestors can access inmates’ records upon request.

The Mississippi Department of Corrections maintains inmate records in the state.

What’s on a Mississippi inmate record?

The information listed on an inmate record varies.

However, in Mississippi, the records usually contain personal information and specific details about a person’s incarceration situation.

Public access to inmate records can provide the following information when accessed:

• Name and aliases
• Date of Birth
• Social security number
• Height and weight
• DOC ID
• Booking photo
• Assigned location
• Sentence summary

Where can I find Mississippi inmate records?

All information about incarcerated persons in Mississippi State is maintained by the individual institutions.

You will conduct a simple search of the Mississippi Inmate Records database using a person’s name or ID number.

Mississippi Court Records

According to the Mississippi Public Records Act of 1941, all residents within a state have a right to access court records to ensure transparency between the government and its residents.

Court records can be the most complicated to request because you often need to visit specific courthouses to gain access.

However, Mississippi has an online system that will ease your search.

What’s on a Mississippi court record?

In most cases, court records are quite large and come with many different documents. Most people find the following documents the most helpful:

• Names of parties
• Docket
• Attorney name
• City and state
• Case number
• Case type
• Case information
• Date of birth
• Court orders

Where can a person find Mississippi court records?

The Mississippi court system encompasses eight different types of courts, each with a specific delegated role in the judicial system.

The Mississippi Judiciary is a site designed to provide public access to these courts and their decisions. General information about every level of the court system and judicial and staff directories are available for each court.

You will search the Mississippi court records database to access the public court record.

If you cannot find what you are looking for online, you will need to reach out to the court clerk where the case was heard.

Dockets, briefs, orders, and opinions of the courts where the individual cases were held can be accessed online by searching the name or identification number of the inmate or the attorney’s name.

Mississippi Vital Records Records

The Mississippi State Department of Vital Records and Statistics maintains public vital records in the state.

Mississippi public vital records include:

• Birth Certificates
• Death Certificates
• Marriage Licenses
• Divorce Decrees

Public record requests for vital records will differ depending on which document you are seeking.

Mississippi State Department of Vital Records and Statistics
Vital Records
State Department of Health
P.O. Box 1700
Jackson, MS 39215-1700

What information do I need to request a Mississippi birth certificate?

The Application for a Certified Mississippi Birth Certificate will require specific details.

• The full name on the birth record
• Date of birth
• Place of birth
• Gender
• Race
• Parents’ full name before marriage

Where can I find a Mississippi birth certificate?

You can order a Mississippi birth certificate online by using VitalCheck.

Or, you can request a certified copy of a birth record by completing the Application for a Certified Mississippi Birth Certificate and submitting it by mail or in person.

The cost for a certified birth certificate in Mississippi is $17.

What information do I need for a death certificate in Mississippi?

The Application for a Certified Mississippi Death Certificate requires specific details.

• Full name of the deceased
• Date of death
• Place of death
• Gender
• Race
• Social Security number
• Age at death
• Name of parents
• Funeral home

Where can I find a Mississippi death record?

You can order a Mississippi death certificate online using VitalCheck.

Or, you can obtain a Mississippi death record by completing the Application for a Certified Mississippi Death Certificate and submitting it in person or by mail.

The cost for a certified death certificate in Mississippi is $17.

What information do I need to request a marriage certificate in Mississippi?

The Circuit Clerk’s Office maintains marriage records in Mississippi.

However, you can request a copy of a marriage certificate through the Mississippi State Department of Health and Vital Records and Statistics.

• The name of both spouses before marriage
• Date of marriage
• Place of marriage
• The place the license was issued

Where can I find an existing Mississippi marriage record?

You can use VitalCheck to order a copy of a marriage record.

Or, you can complete the Application for Certified Mississippi Statistical Records of Marriage and submit it by mail or in person.

The cost of a certified copy of a marriage certificate is $17.

Mississippi State Department of Vital Records & Statistics
222 Marketridge Dr
Ridgeland, MS 39157

What information do I need to request a divorce certificate in Mississippi?

The County Chancery Court maintains divorce records in Mississippi.

You will need to contact the Chancery Clerk in your jurisdiction to inquire about forms, fees, and office hours.

Where can I find a Mississippi divorce record?

You will need to contact the Chancery Court where the divorce decree was issued.

Example – Hinds County Chancery Court
316 S President St
Jackson, MS 39201

Mississippi Property Records

The Chancery Court maintains public property and voter records in Mississippi.

The property records you can access include:

• Liens
• Titles
• Property deeds
• Mortgages
• Property tax assessment records
• Zoning information
• Probate

What information do I need to request property records in Mississippi?

Public property record requests vary depending on the Mississippi county where the property record is maintained.

Contact your Chancery County Court Clerk to inquire about forms, fees, and office hours.

Where can I find a Mississippi property record?

You will contact the Chancery Court in the county that maintains the Mississippi property record.

Example – Desoto County Chancery Court
Desoto County Chancery Court Public Records Requests
DeSoto County
Administration Building
365 Losher Street
Hernando, MS 38632

Phone number: 662-469-8000

FAQs

Can a request be submitted by non-residents of Mississippi?

Non-residents of the state can submit a request. Residents in Jackson, Chancery, or Manhattan can access records in the state.

How long does Mississippi have to respond?

The state has precisely seven days to respond.

If an extension is needed, the agency can extend it for seven days upon request.

Is there a records custodian in Mississippi?

The Mississippi Public Records law does mandate a records custodian.

What exemptions exist for public records requests in Mississippi?

Mississippi has 32 exemptions on the books.

Generally, these exemptions resemble those listed by other states that protect personal information, public safety, and trade secrets.

Is there an appeals process in place for public records requests in Mississippi?

Yes, there is an appeals process in place, although there is a short time window.

One has to appeal within 30 days with the Mississippi Supreme Court from the day the agency rejected your request.

Unlike other states with an administrative appeal process through the Attorney General, Mississippi has this option.

However, you can speak with the Ethics Commission per the Mississippi code to get their opinion before filing an appeal suit.

What fees are associated with requesting public records?

In Mississippi, each department can develop its own “reasonable” fee structure for making copies of requested records.

In some cases, a requester may also be charged for labor, especially if the request is lengthy and ties up office staff and resources.

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South Dakota Public Records

You need a quick background check or a copy of a criminal record from South Dakota but want to find the best place to search.

While access isn’t restricted, finding and requesting records can be a bit challenging. Records are kept by different branches of government and by various state agencies, so it can be challenging to know where to start looking.

Those needing to access records have a right to submit a request through the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).

Every state has different processes, so it’s essential to know the state’s law before requesting any documents.

• Criminal Records
• Court Records
• Inmate Records
• Vital Records

What does the South Dakota public records law say?

The South Dakota Public Records Law was updated in 2009 to follow many of the federal Freedom of Information Act suggestions.

You do not have to be a resident to request records from South Dakota.

The South Dakota Open Records Law does not include the judicial system, but you can obtain executive and legislative branch documents.

You should only be charged the actual fee for copying the records. Some prices may be waived if the record release is in the public’s best interest.

You can file an appeal within 30 days to the Hearing Examiner’s Office if you are not granted your records request.

Information may be redacted on the document, which falls under the invasion of privacy, a threat to public safety or security.

To learn more, visit SouthDakota.gov.

How can I access public records in South Dakota?

For public records access in South Dakota, a person must submit a public records request. The request is sent via mail, email, or phone to the record-holding department. Some records are online, and some documents must be requested in writing.

Every department is different, so expect some variation to the rules if you’re accessing records from multiple places.

In general, a public records request should include:

• Your name
• Contact information
• The name of the document
• Details about the document
• A time frame that you would like to receive the materials by
• Document delivery method, mail or email

South Dakota Criminal Records

South Dakota’s criminal record results may provide less detailed information than more thorough background checks.

If there is no “rap sheet” to report, or the person’s record consists only of non-conviction data, you’ll get nothing more than a notice that there is no criminal record

The South Dakota Attorney General maintains criminal records in the state.

What’s on a South Dakota criminal record?

South Dakota provides the following information on a criminal record:

The main information you will find on the criminal records is:

• Date of birth
• Driver license number
• Photograph/mugshot
• Fingerprints
• Current and past addresses
• Former arrest records
• Current and past warrants
• Sex offender status
• Agency of arrest – police department, sheriff’s office, state police, etc.

Where can I find South Dakota criminal records?

Any person who has been arrested for misdemeanors or felonies in South Dakota will be in their State’s Computerized Criminal History system. You can use this system for background searches for employment.

You will visit the Division of Criminal Investigation Identification Department to access a South Dakota criminal record.

To run a background check, the system is 100% fingerprint-based. Records on arrests, bail/bonds, conviction, probation, and facility location are available for a fee.

The cost is $26.75 and requires a signed waiver.

To begin, call 605-773-3331 for a free fingerprint kit.

The fingerprint card must be completed and include the applicant’s name, date of birth, gender, and social security number. The individual inquiring must take the fingerprint card to the local law enforcement agency for printing.

The fee is $26.75 and needs to be in the form of a check or money order.

South Dakota does not store information on persons on probation or persons in the county jails.

South Dakota Inmate Records

South Dakota has six main prisons with the state penitentiary located in Sioux Falls. And, houses over 3,800 inmates.

South Dakota Department of Corrections (DOC) maintains statewide inmate records.

What’s on a South Dakota inmate record?

South Dakota records contain personal information about a person’s incarceration situation.

The Department of Corrections inmate locator provides the following information:

• Name and aliases
• Date of Birth
• Height and weight
• DOC ID
• Booking photo
• Assigned location
• Sentence summary

Where can I find South Dakota inmate records?

You will visit the South Dakota Department of Corrections to access the inmate record using the inmate locator.

To find an inmate, enter the DOC #, last name, and first name of that person.

South Dakota Court Records

Finding court records is one of the trickier records to access because most of the time, you have to get them from a clerk of courts at specific county courthouses.

Conduct a public records search; it helps understand the South Dakota court system.

Courts in South Dakota include the Supreme Court, Circuit Courts, Small Claims Court, and Problem Solving Courts like Drug, DUI, Mental Health, and Veterans Treatment Courts. Knowing which court may hold the files you need makes it easier to track them down.

The Supreme Court in South Dakota is comprised of a chief justice and four associate justices who hear appeals on decisions set forth by the lower courts. The court can advise the state’s governor.

The South Dakota Circuit Courts are the trial courts for criminal and civil cases. The trials for any felony in South Dakota would happen in a circuit court. Civil cases exceeding $10,000 would be tried here.

The Problem Solving Courts were first created to help with an increase in drug cases. Since it was successful, other courts like the Mental Health Court were added to streamline the court system.

The Small Claims Court is organized so that people can sue for losses of money or property. The dollar limit for small claims is $12,000 or less.

You can request criminal cases unless they have been sealed. They are available from 1989 to the present. From 2003 to the present, civil cases can be requested unless sealed. Civil money judgments are found here from April 19, 2004, until the present.

What’s on a court record?

Depending on the time of the case, court records can be pretty lengthy.

Court records that you can obtain are:

• Court minutes
• Case files
• Dockets
• Court opinions
• Orders of the court
• Judgment documentation
• Jury records and files
• Witness documentation
• Case information

Where can I find South Dakota court records?

You will search Public Action Records Search (PARS) for criminal and protection orders.

Enter the system as a guest to use your credit card. The fee is $20.00 even if you have no results.

Civil money judgments can be found using the South Dakota Unified Judicial System

by entering a name and password. Searches covered are judgments from April 19, 2004, to the present.

Searches are by name but also include date ranges. You may search by county. The fee is $4.00 per name, plus a $1.00 handling fee to access the docket. You can use a credit or debit card. You will be charged even if there is no result.

Civil and criminal records can be obtained through email using South Dakota Court Records Email and completing the application. It will cost $20.00 per name.

South Dakota Vital Records

The South Dakota Department of Health maintains vital records in the state.

South Dakota’s vital records include:

• Birth Certificates
• Death Certificates
• Marriage Licenses
• Divorce Decrees

Public record requests for vital records in South Dakota will vary depending on the document you are requesting.

South Dakota Department of Health – Vital Records Department
Vital Records
State Department of Health
207 East Missouri Avenue, Suite 1-A
Pierre, SD 57501

Phone number: 605-773-4961

What information do I need to request a South Dakota birth certificate?

The South Dakota Vital Records Request form will ask for specific information when ordering a birth record.

• Full name on the birth record
• Gender
• Date of birth
• Place of birth
• Parents’ full name

Where can I find a South Dakota birth certificate?

You can order a South Dakota birth certificate online using VitalCheck.

Or, you can request a certified copy of a South Dakota birth record by completing the South Dakota Vital Records Request form and submitting it by mail or in person.

The cost of a certified birth certificate in South Dakota is $15.

What information do I need for a death certificate in South Dakota?

The South Dakota Vital Records Request form will ask for specific information when ordering a death record.

• Full name on the birth record
• Gender
• Date of death
• Place of death

Where can I find a South Dakota death certificate?

You can order a South Dakota death certificate online using VitalCheck.

Or, you can request a certified copy of a South Dakota death record by completing the South Dakota Vital Records Request form and submitting it by mail or in person.

The cost of a certified death certificate in South Dakota is $15.

What information do I need for a marriage certificate in South Dakota?

The South Dakota Vital Records Request form will ask for specific information when ordering a marriage record.

• Spouses’ full names before marriage
• Gender
• The city or county that issued the marriage license
• Date of the marriage

Where can I find a South Dakota marriage certificate?

You can order a South Dakota marriage certificate online using VitalCheck.

Or, you can request a certified copy of a South Dakota marriage record by completing the South Dakota Vital Records Request form and submitting it by mail or in person.

The cost of a certified marriage certificate in South Dakota is $15.

What information do I need for a divorce certificate in South Dakota?

The South Dakota Vital Records Request form will ask for specific information when ordering a divorce record.

• Spouses’ full names before marriage
• Gender
• The city or county that issued the divorce was granted
• Date of the divorce

Where can I find a South Dakota divorce certificate?

You can order a South Dakota divorce certificate online using VitalCheck.

Or, you can request a certified copy of a South Dakota divorce record by completing the South Dakota Vital Records Request form and submitting it by mail or in person.

The cost of a certified divorce certificate in South Dakota is $15.

South Dakota Property Records

The County Register of Deeds maintains all property records in South Dakota.

The property records you can access include:

• Liens
• Land records
• Titles
• Property deeds
• Real estate information
• Mortgages
• Property tax assessment records
• Zoning information
• Probate
• Ordinance compliance
• Building permits
• RFPS information

For data, parcel, and land use maps, you will need to contact the Geographic Information System(GIS) to ask about public access and economic development.

What information do I need to request property records in South Dakota?

You will need basic information to access a public property record in South Dakota.

Local government forms, fees, and office hours will vary depending on the Register of Deeds office.

Where can I find a South Dakota property record?

You will need to contact the Register of Deed’s Office where the property record is maintained.

Example – Minnehaha County Register of Deeds’ office
Minnehaha County Register of Deeds’ Public Records Forms
Minnehaha County Commission Office
415 N. Dakota Ave.
Sioux Falls, SD 57104

Phone number: 605-367-4223

FAQs

Can a request be submitted by non-residents of South Dakota?

Anyone in the United States can submit a request; you do not need to be a state citizen to request records.

Is there a records custodian in South Dakota?

South Dakota does not designate a records custodian. However, you can contact the Office of Hearing Examiners to appeal a public records decision.

What exemptions exist for public records requests in South Dakota?

The state of South Dakota does exempt the judicial courts from public records release. On top of that, 35 other records are exempt. It will be prudent to check to see if the records you are hunting are exempt. A partial exemption list includes:

• financial accounts
• trade secrets
• law enforcement methods
• inmate disciplinary matters
• personal correspondence and notes from public officials
• personal information that invades privacy
• information that could endanger public safety

How long does South Dakota have to respond to a public records request?

South Dakota state government agencies must grant, deny, or extend your request within ten business days.

Is there an appeals process in place for public records requests in South Dakota?

South Dakota does have an appeals process. You must submit your appeal within 30 days after the records release decision.

You can appeal to the Office of Hearing Examiner. If this request fails, you can file with the circuit court within the district which holds the records.

What fees are associated with requesting public records in South Dakota?

Fess charged to an individual requesting records must be kept at that actual cost. A records search can be set at $7.50 an hour, and copying fees are $0.10 a page. Any price over $10.00 needs to be prepaid. If costs exceed $50.00, an estimate must be sent to the requestor.

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Wisconsin Public Records

The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) gives all United States citizens access to public records, but each state has its own rule and regulations.

Gaining access to these files can be complicated if you don’t have the necessary information to streamline everything.

Every state has different processes, so it’s essential to know the state’s law before requesting any documents.

• Criminal Records
• Court Records
• Inmate Records
• Vital Records

What does the Wisconsin public records law say?

The Wisconsin Open Records Act was enacted in 1981 and stated that the public has a right to collect and analyze all public records unless it is expressly against the law. The state has more than 50 million records.

In Wisconsin, the state law mimics many of the statutes in the federal law, also known as the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).

All branches of government are open for requests, which must be handled as quickly as possible, although the more specific language does not exist in the law.

The state attorney general is tasked with hearing complaints and disputes about requests and can issue opinions to generally followed agencies.

If a public records officer improperly deals with a request, a fine of up to $1,000 could apply. It includes fee disputes, as fees are to be kept to direct the actual cost of labor or copying. Fee waivers are available.

Wisconsin law says requesters do not have to live in the state to access public records.

How can I access public records in Wisconsin?

Requesters can access public records online or send a formal request to the record-holding department. If a formal request is necessary, you can deliver it by mail, email, or phone.

State agencies differ, so expect some variation to the rules if you’re accessing records from multiple places.

In general, a public records request should include:

• Your name
• Contact information
• The name of the document
• Details about the document
• A time frame that you would like to receive the materials by
• Document delivery method, mail or email

Wisconsin Criminal Records

All individual history records from various local and county sources are centralized and organized into one database in Wisconsin.

Criminal background reports are available to the public.

Wisconsin Department of Justice maintains criminal records in the state.

What’s on a criminal record?

A criminal record provides a detailed record of a person’s interactions with law enforcement.

Criminal records are pulled from various sources and include arrest records, convictions, and incarcerations within the state’s four prisons.

Traffic citations and some misdemeanors will not appear on a criminal record.

More specifically, a criminal record or a criminal background check will provide the following information:

• Date of birth
• Criminal charges
• Driver license number
• Photograph/mugshot
• Fingerprints
• Restraining orders
• Current and past addresses
• Former arrest records
• Current and past warrants
• Felonies

Where can I find Wisconsin criminal records?

Criminal records, including arrest records, are available to employees through the Wisconsin Department of Justice Crime Information Bureau (CIB).

Most employers conduct a search using a person’s name instead of one with fingerprints.

While fingerprint-based records are more accurate, most employers opt for name-based searches because they are cheaper and more accessible.

To search online, simply click on the link above. You will need to set up an account to access records.

The CIB is responsible for maintaining criminal history information submitted by local law enforcement agencies in Wisconsin.

The unit maintains more than 1.3 million records, which have been received from law enforcement agencies, district attorney offices, clerks of court, and municipal courts throughout the State of Wisconsin.

Wisconsin Inmate Records

Inmate records for Wisconsin consist of offenders held across the state prisons, correctional inmate facilities, detention centers, and penal institutions throughout the state.

Overseen by the Wisconsin Department of Corrections, they may also include information on sentencing, the class and type of offense, the parish where a case was tried, and the facility location of the inmate.

What’s on a Wisconsin inmate record?

The information listed on an inmate record varies, but in Wisconsin, the records usually contain personal information and specific details about a person’s incarceration situation.

Public access to inmate records can provide the following information when accessed:

• Name and aliases
• Date of Birth
• Height and weight
• DOC ID
• Booking photo
• Assigned location
• Sentence summary

Where can I find Wisconsin inmate records?

Information can be attained through the Department of Corrections Offender Locator portal on inmates within the Wisconsin Department of Corrections (WDOC).

Users are allowed access to information regarding the inmate status of any individual throughout the system. Access to the portal requires entering an offender’s last name or ID number.

The system will return search results matching data points with the following additional fields: first name, birth year, race, the county where the disposition of the person’s criminal case occurred (or were incarcerated), zip code, and current status.

Members of the public can obtain inmate information or locate inmates by using the search engine tool provided by the Wisconsin Department of Corrections. There are also web services managed by the county’s sheriff’s office that can be used to narrow down the search to specific county jails.

Wisconsin Court Records

Accessing court records can be complicated depending on the case type.

A requester must identify the courthouse where a case was heard in most states and request documents from the Court Clerk.

In Wisconsin, the process is more accessible.

What’s on a Wisconsin court record?

In most cases, case files are pretty large and come with many different documents.

Most people find the following documents the most helpful:

• Court minutes
• Court fees
• Court case number
• Dockets
• Orders of the court
• Judgment documentation
• Juror information
• Witness documentation
• Criminal case information
• Small claims decisions

Where can I find Wisconsin court records?

You will visit the Wisconsin Courts website to access the Wisconsin court system. Consolidated Court Automation Programs (CCAP) maintain the court record database.

It allows you Wisconsin Circuit court access, as well as the Court of Appeals, and the Wisconsin Supreme Court. To search documents, you’ll need some basic information.

You can search Circuit Court Records by name, birth date, or business name.

The more information you can provide, the more likely you will find the documents.

If you can’t find the records you’re looking for, you’ll need to access records the old fashion way. You’ll need to contact the Clerk of Courts office in the courthouse where the case was heard.

Example – Milwaukee County Clerk of Circuit Court
The Clerk of Circuit Court
901 North 9th Street, Room 104
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53233

Phone number: 414-278-5362

Wisconsin Vital Records

The Wisconsin Department of Health and Human Services maintains vital records in the state.

Wisconsin’s vital records include:

• Birth Certificates
• Death Certificates
• Marriage Licenses
• Divorce Decrees

Public record requests for vital records in Wisconsin will vary depending on the document you are requesting.

Wisconsin Department of Health Services Vital Records Office
WI Vital Records Office
1 West Wilson Street
P.O. Box 309
Madison, WI 53701-0309

Phone number: 608-266-1373

What information do I need to request a Wisconsin birth certificate?

The Wisconsin Birth Certificate Application will ask for specific information when ordering a birth record.

• Full name on the birth certificate
• Gender
• Birthdate
• County of birth
• City, village, or township of birth
• Parents’ full name

Where can I find a Wisconsin birth certificate?

You can order a Wisconsin birth certificate online by using VitalCheck.

Or, you can request a certified copy of a Wisconsin birth record by completing the Wisconsin Birth Certificate Application and submitting it by mail or in person.

The cost of a certified birth certificate in Wisconsin is $20.

What information do I need for a death certificate in Wisconsin?

The Wisconsin Death Certificate Application will ask for specific information when ordering a copy of a death record.

• Full name on the death record
• County of death
• City, village, or township of death
• Social security number of the deceased
• Spouse’s full name before marriage
• Parents’ full name before marriage

Where can I find a Wisconsin death certificate?

You can order a Wisconsin death certificate online by using VitalCheck.

Or, you can request a certified copy of a Wisconsin death record by completing the Wisconsin Death Certificate Application and submitting it by mail or in person.

The cost of a certified birth certificate in Wisconsin is $20.

What information do I need for a marriage certificate in Wisconsin?

The Wisconsin Marriage Certificate Application will ask for specific information when requesting a marriage license.

• Spouses’ full name before marriage
• Date of marriage
• County of marriage
• City, village, or township of marriage

Where can I find a Wisconsin marriage certificate?

You can order a Wisconsin marriage certificate online by using VitalCheck.

Or, you can request a certified copy of a Wisconsin marriage record by completing the Wisconsin Marriage Certificate Application and submitting it by mail or in person.

The cost of a certified marriage certificate in Wisconsin is $20.

What information do I need for a divorce certificate in Wisconsin?

The Wisconsin Divorce Certificate Application will ask for specific information when requesting a marriage license.

• Spouses’ full name before marriage
• County of divorce
• Date of divorce

Where can I find a Wisconsin divorce certificate?

You can order a Wisconsin divorce record online by e-filing using VitalCheck.

Or, you can request a certified copy of a Wisconsin divorce record by completing the Wisconsin Divorce Certificate Application and submitting it by mail or in person.

The cost of a certified divorce decree in Wisconsin is $20.

Wisconsin Property Records

The Register of Deeds maintains all property records in Wisconsin.

The property records you can access include:

• Liens
• Land records
• Titles
• Ordinance violations
• Property deeds
• Real estate information
• Mortgages
• Property tax assessment records
• Zoning information
• Probate
• Forfeitures
• Foreclosures

For data, parcel, and land use maps, you will need to contact the Geographic Information System(GIS) to ask about public access.

What information do I need to request property records in Wisconsin?

You will need basic information to access a property record in Wisconsin.

Public request forms, fee schedules, and office hours will vary depending on the County Register of Deeds where the property record is maintained.

Where can I find a Wisconsin property record?

You will need to contact the Wisconsin Register of Deeds where the property record is maintained.

Example – Dane County Register of Deeds
Dane County Register of Deeds Public Records
City-County Building Room 110
210 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd.
Madison, WI 53703

Phone number: 608-267-1519

FAQs

Can a request be submitted by non-residents of Wisconsin?

Non-residents of the state can submit requests.

Any United States citizen can request records from Wisconsin.

Is there a legal custodian in Wisconsin?

Wisconsin does not have a definite records custodian. However, the Attorney General gives advice and guidance to agencies concerning public records matters.

What exemptions exist for public records requests in Wisconsin?

Eight exemptions deal with law enforcement and trade secrets as defined by the Uniform Trade Secrets Act.

Other exemptions protect personnel records, or some documents may contain redaction of personal details or identifiable information, like a person’s home address.

The Wisconsin Open Records Act sought to reduce the number of exemptions on file.

You have the option to ask for the Attorney’s General to review the disclaimer.

How long does Wisconsin have to respond to a public records request?

In the state of Wisconsin, there are no timelines set for state officials to respond to a request.

Delays without explanation can lead to disputes among the parties involved.

Is there an appeals process in place for public records requests in Wisconsin?

Should any disputes arise, the state of Wisconsin provides for an appeals process that’s in place.

The process involves filing with the court that the agency in question resides within 45 days from when the final response was given.

What are the fees associated with requesting public records in Wisconsin?

The fees associated with requesting public records, including getting copies of documents, are nominal. Municipalities charge fees for the copies depending on whether they are black and white or colored copies.

The black and white copies are relatively cheaper than the colored copies.

The media or those requesting the public records for public interest may get fees waived.

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Nebraska Public Records

Nebraska has a strong public records law on the books that gives the public access to many forms in many different state agencies.

Unlike some states that only allow residents to access public records, Nebraska enables any U.S. citizen access to records. It doesn’t matter if you live in Lincoln, Omaha, New York City, or Miami; anyone can request Nebraska public records.

While access isn’t restricted, finding and requesting records can be a bit challenging. Records are kept by different branches of government and by various state agencies, so it can be challenging to know where to start looking.

Those needing to access records have a right to submit a request through the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).

Every state has different processes, so it’s essential to know the state’s law before requesting any documents.

• Criminal Records
• Court Records
• Inmate Records
• Vital Records

What does the Nebraska public records law say?

The Nebraska Public Records Law was passed in 1975 and stated that “all citizens of this state, and all other persons interested in examining the public records” may have access to them.

Record requestors don’t need to state a purpose to obtain records either.

All states do exempt some public records from the public records law. In Nebraska, exempt documents include any records containing personal information, medical records, law enforcement records, trade secrets, security-related information, credit information, archaeological records, and employment records.

All branches of the state government, including the executive, legislative, and judicial branches, must adhere to the public records in the Nebraska constitution.

The state specifies a response time in the law, one of the fastest turnaround times in the United States: 4 business days.

Visit Nebraska.gov to learn about the state and its public records laws.

How can I access public records in Nebraska?

For public records access in Nebraska, a person must submit a public records request to the specific agency holding the record that you want to see. Most requests can be made by email, phone, or in person. Some departments do, however, require a written request.

Every department is different, so expect some variation to the rules if you’re accessing records from multiple places.

In general, a public records request should include:

• Your name
• Contact information
• The name of the document
• Details about the document
• A time frame that you would like to receive the materials by
• Document delivery method, mail or email

Nebraska Criminal Records

Criminal records provide a report of a person’s interactions with law enforcement. Employers tend to request criminal records to screen new employees.

Employers want to make sure that the person they plan to hire has a clean record, verified by accessing criminal records.

The Nebraska State Patrol maintains criminal records in the state.

What’s on a Nebraska criminal record?

A criminal record lists criminal activity, arrest history, indictment records, and incarceration information.

When a criminal history is pulled, you’ll likely find the following information:

More specifically, a criminal record or a background check will provide the following information:

• Date of birth
• Driver license number
• Photograph/mugshot
• Fingerprints
• Current and past addresses
• Former arrest records
• Current and past warrants
• Sex offender status

Where can I find Nebraska criminal records?

The state makes criminal records available through the Nebraska Records of Arrest and Prosecution (RAP). The search is limited.

These records only provide criminal acts that a person is fingerprinted for, so things like minor traffic violations will not be included in the reports.

The public records law gives anyone, including employers, access to these records by filling out a request form or using an online portal.

To request a record, you need to provide a person’s full name and date of birth. The search results are more accurate if a social security number is provided.

If you need further information, contact the Nebraska State Patrol.

Nebraska Inmate Records

As you might expect, Inmate records provide information about a person incarcerated in the state of Nebraska.

A person’s offenses and the category of the offense, be it a misdemeanor or a felony, will be listed on this type of record.

The Nebraska Department of Corrections maintains inmate records in the state.

What’s on a Nebraska inmate record?

An inmate record can provide personal information like race, date of birth, and nationality, but most people are looking for more specific details.

The information on a Nebraska inmate record is usually pulled from several different law enforcement agencies and provides information about the offenders:

• Name and aliases
• Date of Birth
• Height and weight
• DOC ID
• Booking photo
• Assigned location
• Sentence summary

Where can I find Nebraska inmate records?

You will search the Nebraska Department of Correctional Services website to access the inmate record.

To get the best results, you’ll need to enter a DCS Id Number.

A search can be conducted with an inmate’s first and last name as well.

Nebraska Court Records

To access Nebraska court records, it’s helpful to understand how the court system works.

The court of appeals oversees decisions made by lower courts, which in Nebraska are made up of 93 superior and trial courts spread across the state.

The Nebraska Supreme Court is the highest court authority, followed by the Court of Appeals.

What’s on a Nebraska court record?

Court record details vary, but in Nebraska, most people find these pieces the most helpful:

• Court minutes
• Case files
• Descriptions and details of open meetings
• Dockets
• Orders of the court
• Judgment documentation
• Jury records and files
• Witness documentation

Where can I find Nebraska court records?

In many states, accessing court records can be one of the most tedious and time-consuming. However, Nebraska has a searchable database that can provide a lot of information without sending special requests or talking with state officials on the phone.

To view court cases, visit the Nebraska Judicial Branch website. On this site, requesters can access criminal, civil, traffic, juvenile, and probate cases filed in all of the state’s county and district courts. You will be able to determine case detail, parties involved, court cost information, and registrar of actions. If you want copies, you need to request them from the clerk of the court at the courthouse where the case was heard.

To conduct a search, there is a fee of $15 per search.

Nebraska Vital Records

The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services maintains vital records in the state.

Nebraska vital records include:

• Birth Certificates
• Death Certificates
• Marriage Licenses
• Divorce Decrees

Public record requests for vital records in Nebraska will vary depending on the document you are requesting.

Nebraska Vital Records
Nebraska Vital Records
P.O. Box 95065
Lincoln, NE 68509-5065

Phone number: 402-471-2871

What information do I need to request a Nebraska birth certificate?

The Application for Certified Copy of Birth Certificate will ask for specific information when ordering a birth record.

• Full name on the birth record.
• Date of birth.
• Place of birth.
• Parents’ full name.

Where can I find a Nebraska birth certificate?

You will use the Division of Public Health Vital Records website to order a birth record online.

Or, you can request a certified copy of a Nebraska birth record by completing the Application for Certified Copy of Birth Certificate and submitting it by mail or in person to the Department of Health and Human Services Office.

The cost of a certified birth certificate in Nebraska is $17.

What information do I need for a death certificate in Nebraska?

The Application for Certified Copy of Death Certificate will ask for specific information when ordering a death record.

• Full name of the deceased
• Birthdate
• Birthplace
• Spouse’s full name
• Place of death
• Funeral home
• Parents’ full name before marriage

Where can I find a Nebraska death certificate?

You will use the Division of Public Health Vital Records website to order a death record online.

Or, you can request a certified copy of a Nebraska death record by completing the Application for Certified Copy of Death Certificate and submitting it by mail or in person to the Department of Health and Human Services Office.

The cost of a certified death certificate in Nebraska is $16.

What information do I need for a marriage certificate in Nebraska?

The Application for Certified Copy of Marriage Certificate will ask for specific information when ordering a marriage record.

• Full names of both spouses before marriage
• County the marriage took place
• Date of marriage

Where can I find a Nebraska marriage certificate?

You will use the Division of Public Health Vital Records website to order a marriage record online.

You can request a certified copy of a Nebraska marriage record by completing the Application for Certified Copy of Marriage Certificate and submitting it by mail or in person to the Department of Human Services or the County Court that granted the marriage.

The cost of a certified marriage certificate in Nebraska is $16.

What information do I need for a divorce certificate in Nebraska?

The Application for Certified Copy of Dissolution of Marriage (Divorce) Certificate will ask for specific information when ordering a divorce record.

• Full names of both spouses before marriage
• Place where the divorce was granted
• Date of the marriage
• Date of the divorce

Where can I find a Nebraska divorce certificate?

You can request a certified copy of a Nebraska divorce record by completing the Application for Certified Copy of Dissolution of Marriage (Divorce) Certificate and submitting it by mail or in person to the Department of Human Services or the County Court that granted the divorce.

The cost of a certified divorce decree in Nebraska is $16.

Nebraska Property Records

The Register of Deeds Department maintains all property transaction maintains property records in the state.

The property records you can access include:

• Liens
• Land records
• Titles
• Property deeds
• Real estate information
• Mortgages
• Property tax assessment records
• Zoning information
• Probate

For data, parcel, and tax maps, you will need to contact the Geographic Information System(GIS) to ask about public access.

What information do I need to request property records in Nebraska?

You will need basic information to access a public property record in Nebraska.

Forms, fees, and office hours will vary depending on the County Clerk’s Office.

Where can I find a Nebraska property record?

You will need to contact the Nebraska County Registers of Deeds Office where the property record is maintained.

Example – Douglas County Assessor/Register of Deeds
Douglas County Copy, Certified Copy, or Fax Copy Request Form

819 Farnam St.
Rm. H09
Omaha, NE 68183

Phone number: 402-444-6781

FAQs

Can a request be submitted by non-residents of Nebraska?

Nebraska public record laws do not state that being a resident of the state is required to gain access to public records.

Is there a records custodian in Nebraska?

Nebraska Public Records laws say that all requests should go to the record-keeping agency. This is part of the challenge with accessing public records.

Before a document can be accessed, a person must know which agency has the records, to begin with. Sometimes tracking that information down is more time-consuming than making the record request.

What exemptions exist for public records requests in Nebraska?

No government agency is exempt, and that includes the Nebraska legislature.

However, exemptions are made for records containing personal information, medical records, law enforcement records, trade secrets, security-related information, credit information, archaeological records, and employment records..

How long does Nebraska have to respond to a public records request?

Nebraska has four business days to respond to a request and must make reasonable good faith efforts to fulfill all requests.

Is there an appeal process in place for public records requests in Nebraska?

There is no administrative appeal option provided for public records requests in Nebraska. Court action may be taken at the district court in the jurisdiction of the request.

If a request is ignored, you can inform the head of the agency or petition the attorney general as a means of action.

What fees are associated with requesting public records in Nebraska?

You can take your scanner into a department in some cases and make your copies.

However, if this is not permitted, there could be a cost for the records. However, the law says the first four hours of staff time is free. After that, a special service charge can be levied.

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Louisiana Public Records

Finding the public records you need in any state can be difficult as it is not usually a streamlined process.

With records maintained in departments across the state, some are tough to find. In contrast, others are not as accessible to the general public.

However, the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) does give citizens the right to access records.

Every state has different processes, so it’s essential to know the state’s law before requesting any documents.

• Criminal Records
• Court Records
• Inmate Records
• Vital Records

What does the Louisiana public records law say?

The Louisiana Public Records Act, also known as the state’s Sunshine Law, first defines what constitutes public records (including books, records, writings, photographs, microfilm, and more) aside from those that the Constitution of Louisiana has exempted.

In three days or less, a public official must respond to requesters, no matter the state of the process. Within five days of submitting a request, it is possible to initiate legal proceedings if a request is ignored or denied.

However, there is no formal appeals process in Louisiana like seeking an Attorney’s General opinion.

Under the constitution’s authority, exemptions to these include pending criminal litigation, juvenile status offenders, sexual assault victims, security procedures, trade secrets, and some public employee data. Louisiana’s legislative records are covered by the law, with the Louisiana Revised Statutes covering the details.

How can a person access public records in Louisiana?

Some public records can be accessed in Louisiana online, while others will require a physical form to be submitted. If a request is necessary, it can be sent via mail, email, or phone to the record-holding department.

Every department is different, so expect some variation to the rules if you access records from multiple places.

General public records requests can be sent to the Secretary of State.

In general, a public records request should include:

• Your name
• Contact information
• The name of the document
• Details about the document
• A time frame that you would like to receive the materials by
• Document delivery method, mail or email

Louisiana Criminal Records

In Louisiana, criminal records are typically accessed by employers that want to check the backgrounds of any potential employee.

In order to assist employees in finding criminal records, we have provided some helpful information and resources below.

The Bureau of Criminal Identification and Information maintains criminal records in Louisiana.

What’s on a Louisiana criminal record?

A criminal record provides a detailed record of a person’s interactions with law enforcement. These records are pulled from various sources and include arrest records, convictions, and incarcerations within the state’s four prisons.

More specifically, a criminal record or a background check will provide the following information:

• Date of birth
• Photograph/mugshot
• Fingerprints
• Current and past addresses
• Former arrest records
• Current and past warrants
• Arrest report.
• Department of arrest, police department, sheriff’s office, state police, etc.

Where can I find Louisiana criminal records?

The state’s mission is to maintain thorough, up-to-date, comprehensive arrest and disposition information for arrested individuals and make it accessible to all criminal justice agencies.

Louisiana maintains information on criminal records, with the Louisiana State Police Bureau of Criminal Identification and Information directly in charge of administration.

The Louisiana Computerized Criminal History System (LACCH) contains arrest, disposition, and incarceration data on individuals that have been arrested in the state of Louisiana. This system also contains data on individuals that have applied for specific positions requiring a fingerprint-based background check.

The majority of background checks done within the state require a signed authorization from the person being checked – you cannot run a check on another person as a private citizen. Employers, school districts, and licensing agencies have many options for requesting a background check.

They can fill out a form with a signed authorization and fingerprint card and send it to the Bureau of Identification and Information.

An online background check portal also provides name-based background reports only. Either of these options will return arrest and conviction information.

Louisiana Inmate Records

Inmate records in Louisiana consist of offenders held in state prisons, correctional inmate facilities, parish jails, and other penal institutions.

Inmate records may also include information on sentencing, the class of the offense, the parish where the case was tried, and the facility location of the inmate.

The Louisiana Department of Corrections maintains inmate records in the state.

What’s on a Louisiana inmate record?

The information listed on an inmate record varies.

However, in Louisiana, the records usually contain personal information and specific details about a person’s incarceration situation.

Public access to inmate records can provide the following information:

• Name and aliases
• Date of Birth
• Social security number
• Height and weight
• DOC ID
• Booking photo
• Assigned location
• Sentence summary

Where can I find Louisiana inmate records?

Through the Louisiana Department of Corrections, users are able to search for information on offenders within the Louisiana system.

Louisiana has two ways to locate offenders in Louisiana – calling the Imprisoned Person Locator automated number (225-383-4580) that allows users to enter the offender’s DOC Number and get their current status.

It is available 24 hours a day/7 days a week. Alternatively, you can go to www.Vinelink.com and do an online search where you will be given the offender’s present location, a list of all convictions, and their earliest possible release date.

Louisiana Court Records

Court records in Louisiana provide a wealth of information produced from court proceedings. There are resources listed below for people searching for court records.

It is important to remember that court records can be some of the most challenging records to procure since they are usually held across several courts in Louisiana.

What’s on a Louisiana court record?

In the majority of cases, court records are quite dense and come with several varying documents.

Most people find these documents the most helpful:

• Court minutes
• Case files
• Dockets
• Orders of the court
• Judgment documentation
• Jury records and files
• Witness documentation

Where can I find Louisiana court records?

Requesting court records in Louisiana is a bit difficult.

Some courts have online portals while others don’t. To start your search, research the court where the case was heard online.

Your research should tell you if the court offers public records search.

If you can’t find records online, visit or call the courthouse and speak with the Clerk of Courts to request records. Usually, District Court records are found this way.

Louisiana Supreme Court records are available online and physically held at the Division of State Archives, Records Management, and History.

Louisiana Vital Records Records

The Louisiana Department of Public Health maintains public vital records in the state.

Louisiana public vital records include:

• Birth Certificates
• Death Certificates
• Marriage Licenses
• Divorce Decrees

Louisiana’s vital records requests differ depending on the agency you are submitting the request to.

Bureau of Vital Records and Statistics
P.O. Box 60630
New Orleans, LA 70160

Phone number: 504-593-5100

What information do I need to request a Louisiana birth certificate?

The Application for a Certified Copy of Birth Certificate will require specific details.

• Full name on the birth certificate
• Date of birth
• Gender
• City of birth
• Parish of birth
• Parents’ full name

Where can I find a Louisiana birth certificate?

You can request a birth record online using VitalChek or by completing the Application for Certified Copy of Birth Certificate and submitting it in person or by mail.

The cost for a certified birth certificate in Louisiana is $15 per copy.

What information do I need for a death certificate in Louisiana?

The Application for a Certified Copy of Death Certificate will require specific details.

• Full name on the death certificate
• Date of birth
• Gender
• City of birth
• Parish of birth
• Parents’ full name

Where can I find a Louisiana death record?

You can request a Louisiana death record online using VitalChek or by completing the Application for Certified Copy of Birth Certificate and submitting it in person or by mail.

The cost for a certified death certificate in Louisiana is $7 per copy.

What information do I need to request a marriage certificate in Louisiana?

The Application for Certified Copy of Orleans Parish Marriage Certificate requires specific information:

• Spouses’ full names
• Date of marriage

Where can I find an existing Louisiana marriage record?

If you live in Orleans Parish, you can request a marriage record online using VitalChek or by completing the Certified Copy of Orleans Parish Marriage Certificate and submitting it in person or by mail.

All other parishes must contact the Clerk of Court in the jurisdiction the marriage took place.

The price for a certified marriage record is $5 in Louisiana.

What information do I need to request a divorce certificate in Louisiana?

The Clerk of Courts maintains divorce records in Louisiana. The public records request forms may differ depending on the jurisdiction.

Where can I find a Louisiana divorce record?

You will need to contact the Clerk of Court where the divorce decree was issued.

Example – East Baton Rouge Clerk of Court
222 St. Louis Street
Baton Rouge, LA 70802

Phone number: 225-293-1162

Louisiana Property Records

The Louisiana Parish Recorder maintains public property records, campaign finance records, and voter registration in Louisiana.

The property records you can access include:

• Liens
• Titles
• Property deeds
• Mortgages
• Property tax assessment records
• Zoning information
• Appraiser information
• Probate
• Real estate information

What information do I need to request property records in Louisiana?

Public property record requests vary depending on the parish.

Contact your Parish Recorder for fees, processes, and office hours.

Where can I find a Louisiana property record?

You will contact your local Parish Recorder to access public property records.

Example – Cado Parish
Cado Parish Recorder Forms
Caddo Parish, Louisiana Recorder Office
Clerk of Court – Records Division
501 Texas St
Rm 103
Shreveport, Louisiana 71101

FAQs

Can a request be submitted by non-residents of Louisiana?

Whether you live in Baton Rouge, New Orleans, or Miami, you can request records from the state. You also have online access to most public records in the state.

However, the state board states that a person of the age of 18 or older must submit the request.

Is there a records custodian in Louisiana?

Louisiana has no designated records custodian for the state of Louisiana.

However, the law says that the head of any state government agency can respond to records requests.

What exemptions exist for public records requests in Louisiana?

The Louisiana Public Records law covers the legislative records in Louisiana.

However, many are classified as exempt via court ruling or statute.

How long does Louisiana have to respond to a public records request?

The Louisiana state agency is expected to respond within 3 days of a request, no matter whether the process is ongoing or not.

Is there an appeals process in place for public records requests in Louisiana?

Per Louisiana law, they have five days after submitting a request, there is the option to initiate legal proceedings for public records requests denied by any government agency.

Unlike other states with an administrative appeals process that goes through the Attorney General, Louisiana has no such process.

What fees are associated with requesting public records in Louisiana?

The agency that handles the request can only charge fees for situations where the requester asks to search records outside of regular business hours.

Then, a reasonable fee may be applicable.

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Guam Public Records

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Montana Public Records

The State of Montana has one of the oldest traditions of freedom of information laws. It first established laws promoting public access to documents in 1895. The state drafted a new constitution in 1972 requiring it to rewrite Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) laws.

While this sounds good, it is challenging to win FOIA cases in Montana because there are no penalties for government agencies that violate the act. There is also no administrative appeal.

Montana also does not have a public record custodian, so there is virtually no way to force agencies to disclose information.

Those needing to access records have a right to submit a request through the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).

Every state has different processes, so it’s essential to know the state’s law before requesting any documents.

• Criminal Records
• Court Records
• Inmate Records
• Vital Records

What does the Montana public records law say?

Any citizen from any state can request public information from government agencies within the State of Montana.

According to Montana Public Records Law, no government departments, branches, or agencies are exempted. However, exemptions are extensive, so many specific items may be exempted.

For instance, private writings and those with privacy issues, such as individual or public safety concerns as well as trade secrets) are the two listed exemptions in the Montana Constitution. These can be interpreted in a variety of ways.

Also, note that there is no enforcement of the freedom of information law in Montana, and there is no administrative appeal.

There is no specified time frame for government officials in Montana to respond to FOIA requests.

No case law equates delaying a response to a request as a denial. All of this makes it incredibly difficult to appeal in court.

To learn more about Montana’s public record rules, visit the state website at mt.gov.

How can I access public records in Montana?

For public records access in Montana, a person must submit a public records request. The request is sent via mail, email, or phone to the record-holding department.

Every department is different, so expect some variation to the rules if you access records from multiple places.

In general, a public records request should include:

• Your name
• Contact information
• The name of the document
• Details about the document
• A time frame that you would like to receive the materials by
• Document delivery method, mail or email

Montana Criminal Records

The public can obtain criminal records in Montana.

The Montana Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation maintains criminal records in the state.

However, it is challenging as most have to go through individual courts to obtain case history. Those who tend to seek out criminal records are employers doing background checks.

Some charity groups and churches also require a background check before approving a volunteer’s application. Those seeking to adopt or foster a child can also be included in a background check.

What’s on a Montana criminal record?

A criminal record is a document that lists all contacts and interactions with law enforcement and the criminal courts.

Depending on the state, it may not include cases where a person was charged but found innocent. It does list convictions and time spent in incarceration.

A background check will not always list motor vehicle violations and misdemeanors.

Depending on the scope, a background check may reveal any/all of the following:

• Date of birth
• Photograph/mugshot
• Driver’s license number
• Fingerprints
• Current and past addresses
• Former arrest records
• Current and past warrants
• Sex offender status
• Limited driving records

Where can I find a Montana criminal record?

You will visit the Montana Department of Justice website to access the criminal record.

The service includes only the state’s public criminal history information.

There is a $20 fee per request. You can use the service as a registered user or for public users.

Montana records include information such as:

• Notations of arrests and identifiable descriptions
• Complaints, indictments
• Information filed in court and any related dispositions
• Detentions and sentences
• Correctional status
• Release
• Information in the State of Montana includes fingerprints, photos with some exceptions

Montana Inmate Records

Montana has an estimated 1,495 inmates in all of its levels of prisons. Inmate records have a wealth of information that can be helpful on many levels.

Employers find it beneficial to understand a person’s past or where they currently stand in their sentence.

Likewise, reporters also use these services for stories related to either the person’s case or a topic that includes the case.

Crime victims also regularly check the status of offenders to be prepared should they come up for parole or release.

The Montana Department of Corrections maintains inmate records in the state.

What’s on a Montana inmate record?

Public records are available on most Montana inmates who are currently incarcerated or released.

Search results of inmate records will provide the following information:

• Name and aliases
• Date of Birth
• Social security number
• Height and weight
• DOC ID
• Booking photo
• Assigned location
• Sentence summary

Where can a person find Montana inmate records?

You will visit the Correctional Offender Network Search to access the inmate record.

It is a free service, but those seeking information need to have the Department of Corrections identification number and the offender’s first and last name to search.

Those interested can also request the entire Montana Department of Corrections Offender Web database that includes victim’s information, the Board of Pardons and Parole, and the sexual and violent offender registry

Montana Court Records

Some of the most extensive files the public can obtain are court records. Court records typically contain all court transcripts and actions related to a case.

They also include dockets, case files, court minutes, court orders, sentencing and judgment records, and jury and witness documentation.

Because court cases tend to be complicated and involve much testimony, briefs, and evidence, they can be huge files.

What’s on a Montana court record?

Court records are typically large information files and can include documents from several courts, depending on the case. It can contain all court transcripts and information on all actions in a case.

A Montana court record includes the following:

• Court minutes
• Case files
• Dockets
• Orders of the court
• Judgment documentation
• Witness documentation

Where can I find Montana court records?

Montana does not have a fully online system for all court cases.

You can look up Montana Supreme Court decisions through the Montana Judicial Branch website and find the appropriate district and local court.

However, those seeking court records will need to contact the local court or district court where the case was heard to obtain records.

If you are unsure where to start, the local clerk of court for Superior Court is an excellent place to start, although someone seeking records could be referred to another court like probate or magistrate court, depending on where the case was heard.

Montana Vital Records

The Department of Public Health and Human Services maintains vital records in Montana.

Montana’s vital records include:

• Birth Certificates
• Death Certificates
• Marriage Licenses
• Divorce Decrees

Public record requests for vital records will vary depending on the document you are requesting

Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services
Office of Vital Statistics
MT Dept. of Public Health and Human Services
111 N Sanders, Rm. 6
P.O. Box 4210
Helena, MT 59604

Phone number: 406-444-2685

What information do I need to request a Montana birth certificate?

The Montana birth certificate request application will ask for specific information when ordering a birth record.

• Full name on the birth record
• Date of birth
• Place of birth
• Gender
• Parents’ name

Where can I find a Montana birth certificate?

You can order a Montana birth certificate online by using VitalCheck.

Or, you can request a certified copy of a Montana birth record by completing the birth certificate request form and submitting it by mail or in person.

The cost of a certified birth certificate in Montana is $12.

What information do I need for a death certificate in Montana?

The Montana death record request form will ask for specific details when ordering a death record.

• Full name on the death record
• Date of death
• Place of death
• Place of birth
• Gender
• Parents’ name
• Occupation
• Spouse’s name

Where can I find a Montana death record?

You can order a Montana death certificate online by using VitalCheck.

Or, you can request a certified copy of a Montana death record by completing the death record request form and submitting it by mail or in person.

The cost of a certified death record is $15 in Montana.

What information do I need to request a marriage certificate in Montana?

The Clerk of District Court maintains marriage records in Montana.

Every Clerk’s office will have different procedures when accessing district court records.

Where can I find an existing Montana marriage record?

You will need to contact the Clerk of District Court that issued the marriage license to inquire about forms, fees, and office hours.

Example – US District Court Great Falls Division
Missouri River Federal Courthouse
125 Central Avenue West Great Falls, MT 59404

Phone number: (406) 727-1922

What information do I need to request a divorce certificate in Montana?

The Clerk of District Court maintains divorce records in Montana.

Every Clerk’s Office will have different procedures when accessing county records.

Where can I find a Montana divorce record?

You will need to contact the Clerk of District Court that granted the divorce to ask about forms, fees, and office hours.

Montana Property Records

The Montana Department of Revenue maintains property records in Montana.

The property records you can access include:

• Liens
• Land records
• Titles
• Property deeds
• Mortgages
• Property tax assessment records
• Zoning information
• Probate

For data, parcel, and tax maps, you will need to contact the Geographic Information System(GIS) to ask about public access.

What information do I need to request property records in Montana?

You will need some information to access a Montana public property record.

• Name
• Address
• Property number

Where can I find a Montana property record?

You will use the Montana Department of Revenue Property Record Card to do a public records search.

FAQs

Can a request be submitted by non-residents of Montana?

A requester can live anywhere in the United States and get records from Montana.

Is there a records custodian in Montana?

Montana does not have a custodian of public records.

What exemptions exist for public records requests in Montana?

There are broad exemptions to Montana’s Freedom of Information laws.

Two are related to privacy and security issues.

Both can be interpreted extremely broadly, although the strictest interpretation is for trade secrets and personal or state security issues.

How long does Montana have to respond to a public records request?

There is no statute requiring state government agencies within Montana to reply within a specific time frame.

Is there an appeals process in place for public records requests in Montana?

While requesters can take FOIA issues to court, there is no formal appeals process in Montana.

Since there is no public records custodian, there is no agency to appeal a decision. The only answer is to file a lawsuit in court.

You can contact the Montana Attorney General’s Office to report violations of the Freedom of Information Act.

What fees are associated with requesting public records In Montana?

The Montana state law says that fees associated with state agency public records are $.10 a page to cover copying costs and search fees.

Requesters get a half-hour of free search time but are charged $8.50 an hour for labor.

There are no fee waivers.

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Kentucky Public Records

The search for public records in any state is never a direct line. Public records are usually scattered across multiple state agencies, making them challenging to locate and request.

You can save time and stress by knowing the state laws and procedures for public records requests.

Most states typically have a list of private documents, such as government employee salaries, which are listed as public.

Those needing to access records have a right to submit a request through the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA).

Every state has different processes, so it’s essential to know the state’s law before requesting any documents.

• Criminal Records
• Court Records
• Inmate Records
• Vital Records

What does the Kentucky public records law say?

According to Kentucky Public Information Laws currently in place, “all public records created, used or in its possession must be managed by the state.”

The Kentucky Open Records Act consists of laws that guarantee that public access to records is available at all levels in the state.

The state’s executive and legislative branches are both subject to the law. The judicial branch is exempt.

The state takes the law seriously. In subsequent years, Kentucky’s Attorney General has found that agencies that have failed to create a record management program violate the Kentucky Open Records Act.

The state pushes for transparency and strives to provide easy access to the public.

Agencies in Kentucky must respond to a records request within three days. If the state office needs more time, a letter must be written to inform the requester of a 30-day extension.

There are 13 exemptions to the state’s public records act, most of which are standard across the United States.

To learn more, visit Kentucky.gov.

How can a person access public records in Kentucky?

Some records are available online, while others will require a formal records request. If a request is necessary, it can be sent via mail, email, or phone to the record-holding department.

Every department is different, so expect some variation to the rules if you access records from multiple places.

In general, a public records request should include:

• Your name
• Parties name
• Contact information
• The name of the document
• Details about the document
• A time frame that you would like to receive the materials by
• Document delivery method, mail or email

Kentucky Criminal Records

Just as in all states, the criminal records in Kentucky contain an official compilation of a person’s criminal history.

These formal records are compiled from the local, county, and state jurisdictions, as also courts and correctional facilities within the state.

Kentucky criminal records are maintained by the state judiciary. The Clerk of Courts is the custodian for public records.

What’s on a Kentucky criminal record?

A criminal record provides a person’s arrest records, convictions, and incarcerations within the state’s nine prisons.

More specifically, a criminal record or a background check will provide the following information:

• Date of birth
• Photograph/mugshot
• Fingerprints
• Current and past addresses
• Former arrest records
• Current and past warrants
• Arrest report

Where can I find Kentucky criminal records?

Requests for criminal records in the state go through the Kentucky Court of Justice via their online portal.

Through this site, name-based and public records reporting are available. Additionally, the Kentucky State Police administers background checks for licensing, criminal justice, and employment purposes.

For $25, the Administrative Office of the Courts provides criminal records reports to individuals, companies, licensing agencies, government entities, and others.

The AOC’s database is statewide through CourtNet 2.0, which collects court information from the local case management system in Kentucky’s 120 counties.

CourtNet 2.0 possesses millions of Kentucky records covering all misdemeanor and traffic cases for the last five years, plus felonies dating back to 1978. Note that criminal record reports do not contain driving or arrest records.

Kentucky Inmate Records

The Kentucky Department of Corrections manages all adult correctional facilities in the state, setting the rules and standards for all county-run facilities.

The KDOC manages 12 correctional facilities throughout the state.

Kentucky inmate records include the personal and official data of those incarcerated in prisons and county jails within the state.

What’s on a Kentucky inmate record?

An inmate record usually contains personal information and specific details about a person’s incarceration situation.

A public records search can provide the following information when accessed:

• Name and aliases
• Date of Birth
• Social security number
• Height and weight
• DOC ID
• Booking photo
• Assigned location
• Sentence summary

Where can I find Kentucky inmate records?

The Kentucky corrections department provides a searchable database for people who are currently incarcerated in the state and previous inmates who have served their time.

The Kentucky inmate finder is available via the Kentucky Department of Corrections.

An inmate search is possible in Kentucky by using the inmate’s legal first and last name in question or by their aliases.

You can also conduct advanced searches by entering a Department of Corrections ID number, offender type, supervision status, location, age, crime or conviction date, race, gender, and location.

The more information entered into the system, the easier narrowing your search. When conducting your search, check a box to view any available photographs of the inmate. Suppose there is a mugshot available in the system.

In that case, you will be able to see a photograph and know whether you recognize the individual.

You can also search for formerly incarcerated inmates who are out on probation or parole, former convicts listed in the sex offender database, and people who are otherwise under community supervision.

Look for inmates who were recently arrested or convicted in Kentucky.

You might have some trouble finding them through the database. According to the Kentucky Department of Corrections website, it may take more than 120 days for new offender data to be finalized and entered into the system.

Kentucky Court Records

In Kentucky, the Supreme Court serves as the highest legal authority. It thus has the power to oversee decisions made by lesser courts. This means that the Supreme Court can check any decision made by the Court of Appeals and weigh in on any legal conflicts and questions within the court system.

The Court of Appeals then acts similarly to District Courts and Circuit Courts, reviewing decisions when one party contests a decision.

What’s on a Kentucky court record?

In most cases, court records are quite large and come with several varying documents.

Most people find these documents the most helpful:

• Names of parties
• Court docket
• Attorney name
• Court case information
• City and state
• Case number
• Case type
• Case information
• Date of birth
• Court orders

Where can I find Kentucky court records?

Information on the Kentucky Court of Justice can be obtained through the Administrator of the Court’s website.

The state has its online CourtNet website where criminals can be searched, providing the corresponding copies requested through the appropriate courthouse.

Public entities that must produce records include all state and local government offices.

This also includes the executive and legislative branches and anybody that receives at least 25 percent of its funds from the state.

Kentucky Vital Records Records

The Kentucky Office of Vital Statistics maintains public vital records in the state.

Kentucky public vital records include:

• Birth Certificates
• Death Certificates
• Marriage Licenses
• Divorce Decrees

Public record requests and record lookups for vital records will differ depending on which document you are seeking.

Office of Vital Statistics Department for Public Health
Office of Vital Statistics
Department for Public Health
Cabinet for Health and Family Services
275 East Main Street 1E-A
Frankfort, KY 40621

What information do I need to request a Kentucky birth certificate?

The Application for a Certified Copy of a Birth Certificate will require specific details.

• The full name on the birth record
• Date of birth
• Place of birth
• Parents’ name before marriage

Where can I find a Kentucky birth certificate?

You can order a Kentucky birth certificate online by using VitalCheck.

Or, you can request a certified copy of a Kentucky birth record by completing the Application for a Certified Copy of a Birth Certificate and submitting it by mail or in person.

The cost for a certified birth certificate in Kentucky is $10.

What information do I need for a death certificate in Kentucky?

The Application for a Certified Death Certificate requires specific details.

• Full name of the deceased
• Date of death
• Place of death
• Attending physician’s name
• Funeral home

Where can I find a Kentucky death record?

You can order a Kentucky death certificate online using VitalCheck.

Or, you can obtain a Kentucky death record by completing the Application for a Certified Death Certificate and submitting it in person or by mail.

The cost for a certified death certificate in Kentucky is $6.

What information do I need to request a marriage certificate in Kentucky?

The Clerk of County Court maintains marriage records in Kentucky.

However, you can request a copy of a marriage certificate through the Kentucky Office of Statistics.

• The name of both spouses before and after marriage.
• County where the marriage license was issued.
• County where the dissolution of marriage was granted.

Where can I find an existing Kentucky marriage record?

You can complete the Application for a Certified Copy of a Marriage Certificate and submit it by mail or in person.

The cost of a certified copy of a marriage certificate is $6 in Kentucky.

What information do I need to request a divorce certificate in Kentucky?

The Clerk of County Court maintains marriage records in Kentucky.

However, you can request a copy of a marriage certificate through the Kentucky Office of Statistics.

• The name of both spouses before and after marriage.
• County where the marriage license was issued.
• County where the dissolution of marriage was granted.

Where can I find a Kentucky divorce record?

You can complete the Application for a Certified Copy of a Death Certificate and submit it by mail or in person.

The cost of a certified copy of a divorce decree is $6 in Kentucky.

Kentucky Property Records

The Kentucky Secretary of State Land Office maintains public property records.

The property records you can access include:

• Liens
• Land records
• Titles
• Property deeds
• Mortgages
• Property tax assessment records
• Zoning information
• Probate

What information do I need to request property records in Kentucky?

Public property record requests vary depending on the information you are attempting to obtain.

Where can I find a Kentucky property record?

You will contact the Kentucky Land Office to inquire about forms, fees, and processes.

Example – Kentucky Land Office
Office of the Kentucky Secretary of State Land Office
700 Capital Avenue
Suite 152
Frankfort, KY 40601

Phone number: (502) 564-3490

FAQs

Can a request be submitted by non-residents in Kentucky?

Residency does not matter whether you live in Fayette, Louisville, and New York City; residency does not matter.

Anyone can request records.

Is there a records custodian in Kentucky?

The state of Kentucky does not have a records custodian.

What exemptions exist for public records in Kentucky?

There are 13 exemptions in KORA, with the majority of these more or less standard with what can be seen in other states’ FOIA statutes.

Specific categories of personal information regarding civilians, trade secrets, police methods, active investigations, reports, laws, preliminary drafts, homeland security, public agency real estate purchases, patient medical records, some voter records, and specific academic examinations are exempt.

A more thorough breakdown of exemptions can be found on the state’s transparency site.

How long does Kentucky have to respond?

Agencies in Kentucky have three days to deny or accept a request. If more time is necessary, these agencies will write a letter informing the requester of their 30-day extension.

Is there an appeals process in place for open records request in Kentucky?

There is the possibility to appeal, but it’s quicker to administratively appeal to the Attorney General of Kentucky.

What fees are associated with requesting public records in Kentucky?

Government agencies are not allowed to charge for searches, but noncommercial requests are subject to copying fees.

For non-commercial requests, agencies can charge the actual cost of making copies of records. Commercial requests are subject to fees at reasonable prices. Expect to pay around 10 cents per page.