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Connecticut Public Records

Records have been kept on various events and people for decades. However, those records weren’t always public.

The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), which dates back to 1967, was the first time the public could access records that were once kept private.

Since then, each state has created its FOIA. Each state has different rules, so it’s essential to know the state’s law before requesting any documents.

Overall, Connecticut’s law is relatively straightforward with basic exemptions. All state agencies and any public agency are subject to the law. The state also has a quick response time when a request is submitted and an appeals process if a request is denied.

Connecticut public records are maintained across several departments and they include:

• Criminal records
• Court records
• Inmate records
• Vital records

What does the Connecticut public records law say?

The Connecticut public records law says all government agencies are subject to the law, with exemptions only for the judicial branch regarding judge’s records and dockets.

Additional exemptions focus on documents that could reveal personal information or records that contain safety measures, like those taken inside a jail.

The public records must be released to any requestor within four days. The request must either be fulfilled, denied, or extended.

If a request for state records is denied, there is an appeal process. The state does have strong enforcement of the law, stating that any records keeper that denies a reasonable request can be fined or even serve jail time.

How can a person access public records in Connecticut?

For public records access in Connecticut, 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’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 you’re requesting
• A time frame that you’d like to receive the materials by
• Document delivery method, email or mail

Connecticut criminal records

The Connecticut State Police Bureau of Identification maintains criminal records or criminal histories, statewide.

Criminal records are usually requested by employers looking to vet a new candidate. For a fee, the employer can run a background check, which looks into a person’s criminal past, if there is one.

What’s on a criminal record?

A criminal record, or criminal history, provides a detailed report of a person’s interactions with law enforcement. Most motor vehicle cases are not listed on a criminal record.

Arrest records typically feature details of the alleged crime as well as:

• Aliases
• Date of arrest
• Arrest Records
• Charges
• Prosecution date
• Guilty Pleas
• Convictions
• Felony or misdemeanor charge

Where can I find Connecticut criminal records?

The Connecticut State Police Bureau of Identification holds all criminal records. Unlike other states that have an online searchable database, in Connecticut, the public records search must be requested by filling out a form and mailing it in.

You can use this request form and mail it to the State Bureau of Identification in Middleton.

There is a fee to request these records. If you want a complete record, a person must go to a state office and be fingerprinted. Accessing this kind of record is the most expensive, at $75.

Connecticut State Police
1111 Country Club Rd
Middletown, CT 06457

Phone number: 860-685-8190

Connecticut inmate records

Every state keeps records on those incarcerated. In Connecticut, there are records on its 13,000 inmates scattered in jails and prisons across the state.

What’s on a Connecticut inmate record?

Inmate records can be accessed for various reasons. Family members may be looking for an incarcerated family member, or a victim may want to remain informed about an attacker.

An inmate record in the state of Connecticut usually offers a person’s criminal history and the following information:

• Personal information like a person’s name, birth date, and gender
• A mug shot
• Inmate location
• Inmate registration number
• Jail transfer information
• Custody status
• Law enforcement office making the arrest, police department, sheriff, state police, etc.

Where can I find a Connecticut inmate record?

The Connecticut State Department of Corrections maintains records on inmates.

The records are searchable online and can be accessed at any time, without any formal request. The database can be searched by entering a person’s first name, last name, and date of birth.

The Connecticut State Department of Corrections
24 Wolcott Hill Rd
Wethersfield, CT 06109

Phone number: 860-692-7480

Connecticut Court Records

The State of Connecticut Judicial Branch and the Secretary of State maintains all court records.

Connecticut offers an online database to search for documents, although some may not contain the complete records you’re looking for. If information is missing, you’ll need to reach out to the state with a request form.

What’s on a court record?

The information on a court record can vary, but in Connecticut, most people are looking for these specific documents:

• Court minutes
• Case files
• Dockets
• Court orders
• Judgments
• Jury records and files
• Witness documentation

Where can I find Connecticut court records?

You can access Connecticut court records using The State of Connecticut Judicial Branch website.

Some of the public court records you can access include:

• Arrest warrants
• Child support orders
• Court rulings
• Connecticut State Library database
• Connecticut Supreme Court cases
• Appellate court cases
• Civil cases
• Family court cases
• Probate court cases
• Criminal cases
• Small claims cases

If requesting a court record in person or by mail, you will need to contact the court that handled the case and request the specific form.

Example – New Haven District Court
The District of New Haven the United States District Court website
Richard C. Lee United States Courthouse
141 Church Street
New Haven, CT 06510

Phone number: 203-773-2140

Connecticut Vital Records

The Connecticut State Vital Records Office maintains vital records statewide.

Connecticut public vital records include:

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

Public vital records requests will vary depending on the document you are trying to access.

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

The Request for Certified Copy of a Birth Record from the State form will ask you for specific information:

• Full name on the birth record
• Date of birth
• Place of birth
• Full name of parent(s)

Where can I find a Connecticut birth certificate?

You can obtain a certified copy of a Connecticut birth certificate by completing the Request for a Certified Copy of a Birth Record form from the State and submitting it by mail.

Or, you can request one online using VitalChek.

A certified birth certificate is $30 per copy.

410 Capital Avenue, MS #11VRS
PO Box 340308
Hartford, Ct 06134

Phone number: 860-757-9690

You can submit a birth certificate request with your local Vital Records Office. You will complete the Request for Certified Copy of a Birth Record From the Town and submit it by mail or in person.

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

The Request for a Certified Copy of a Death Certificate form requires specific information:

• Full name of the deceased
• Date of death
• Town of death
• Date of birth
• Place of birth
• Full name of both parents

Where can I find a Connecticut death record?

You can obtain a certified copy of a Connecticut death record by completing the Request for a Certified Copy of a Death Certificate form and submitting it by mail or in person.

Or, you can request one online using VitalChek.

The fee for a certified Connecticut death record is $20 per copy.

Connecticut Department of Public Health
Vital Records Section
Customer Service, MS# 11 VRS
P.O. Box 340308
Hartford, CT 06134-0308

Phone number: 860-757-9690

You can submit a birth certificate request with your local Vital Records Office. You will complete the Request for Certified Copy of a Death Record form and submit it by mail or in person.

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

The Request for a Certified Copy of Marriage form will ask you for specific information:

• The name of both spouses
• The date of marriage
• The town where the marriage took place

Where can I find an existing Connecticut marriage record?

You can obtain a certified copy of a Connecticut marriage record by completing the Request for a Certified Copy of a Marriage form and submitting it by mail or in person.

Or, you can request one online using VitalChek.

The fee for a certified Connecticut marriage certificate is $20 per copy.

Connecticut Department of Public Health
Vital Records Section
Customer Service, MS# 11 VRS
P.O. Box 340308
Hartford, CT 06134-0308

Phone number: 860-757-9690

You can submit a birth certificate request with your local Vital Records Office. You will complete the Request for Certified Copy of a Marriage form and submit it by mail or in person.

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

The Connecticut Superior Court maintains divorce records in the state.

Public request forms and case lookups will differ depending on the jurisdiction.

Where can I find a Connecticut divorce record?

Divorce records in Connecticut are maintained by the State Superior Court.

You will need to contact the Superior Court that the marriage was dissolved.

Connecticut Property Records

Connecticut property records are maintained by the Town Clerk’s Office.

The information on a public property record will differ depending on what you’re specifically requesting access to:

• Residential or commercial purpose
• Liens
• Titles
• Property deeds
• Mortgages
• Property tax assessment records
• Zoning information

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

You will need to contact your local Town Clerk’s office to obtain the property forms and inquire about fees.

Where can I find a Connecticut property record?

You will need to contact the Town Clerk’s office in the jurisdiction where the public property record exists.

Example – Hamden County
Hamden County Land Records Search
Hamden Government Center
2750 Dixwell Avenue
Hamden, CT 06518

Phone number: 203-287-7000

FAQs

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

Any United States citizen can request Connecticut public records.

Is there a records custodian in Connecticut?

An ombudsperson from the Freedom of Information Commission (FOIC) can act as a liaison on an appeal and mediate between you and the agency.

What exemptions exist for public records in Connecticut?

Connecticut lists 25 specific exemptions.

In other words, there are 25 reasons for a record to remain sealed and not open to the public. Documents that contain personal or medical information, public security, trade secrets, real estate appraisals, financial statements of agency employees, training manuals used by the Department of Corrections, and some law enforcement records may be exempt.

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

The state has four days to respond to a request. They can fulfill it, deny it, or ask for an extension of time.

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

The records requester has 30 days to appeal a denial of records. The FOIC can hear the appeal. If it’s denied by the FOIC, the case can be taken to the Connecticut Superior Court.

What fees are associated with requesting public records?

There are fees for copying records, which range between .25 and .50 per page.

No other fees are authorized except charges at actual cost to the agency for transcription and electronic records.

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Kansas Public Records

Searching for public records is not always a simple task. In some cases, the records are not available to the public. In others, they are kept by different departments and require some significant digging.

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 Kansas public records law say?

The Kansas Open Records Act states that you can request public documents in Kansas without explaining why you want them, staff in departments are allowed to decline your request if it places an “unreasonable burden” on their department.

Governmental agencies can also reject your request for a public record if it feels it’s “designed to disrupt the follow of the workings of the government.”

To learn more about the public records law, visit the state website at www.Kansas.gov.

How can I access public records in Kansas?

A person must submit a public records request for public records access in Kansas. The request 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
• 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

Kansas criminal records

Many of the criminal records checks requested in Kansas are done by employers seeking a background check on potential employees.

If you are an employer researching a prospective employee’s (potential) criminal history, use this guide to gather information about the process. Kansas-specific resources are also included.

The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) maintains criminal records in the state.

What’s on a Kansas criminal record?

Sometimes called a “rap sheet,” a criminal record summarizes someone’s criminal history. These records are prepared by state and local law enforcement agencies, detention facilities, and courts.

In Kansas, the document will list the person’s interactions with the law, and the following information will be provided to you:

• 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 Kansas criminal records?

The Kansas Bureau of Identification administers background checks in Kansas. Record checks are fee-based, but the fee and the information released will vary depending on Kansas statutes and regulations.

The Kansas Central Repository allows you to search criminal records by name or fingerprint. You must use the Kansas Bureau of Investigation’s blank fingerprint card to submit a fingerprint.

You can obtain the following types of conviction criminal history information on adults:

• Court convictions for felonies or misdemeanors in Kansas
• Court convictions for violations of municipal ordinances or county resolutions in Kansas
• Confinements in Kansas Department of Corrections facilities
• Arrest Records from the past 12 months
• Active diversions (not yet completed)

Kansas inmate records

Kansas state prisons have approximately 10,000 inmates. According to Prison Policy Initiatives, this is near the national average for prisoners per 100,000 people.

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

What’s on a Kansas inmate record?

You can obtain information on any Kansas inmate who is currently incarcerated, under post-incarceration supervision, or who has been discharged from a sentence.

However, you cannot use the state’s database to get information on inmates sent to Kansas under the provisions of the interstate compact agreement.

Public information on inmates includes:

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

Where can I find Kansas inmate records?

You will search the Kansas Adult Supervised Population Electronic Repository (KASPER) for the inmate record you are trying to access.

The searchable site will require you to enter one or more pieces of information into the search fields like a name or KDOC number.

You can also use the advanced search option, which lets you filter by additional information, such as race, age, gender, facility, and more.

Kansas Court Records

Barring any exemptions from disclosure, anyone can obtain court records in Kansas.

The Kansas Judicial Branch has gradually transitioned to a new centralized case management system, which is expected to be complete by early 2022.

In the meantime, you can still find and request many court records online through their district website.

What’s on a Kansas court record?

The most commonly requested court records in Kansas include:

• Court case
• Case information
• Case number
• Dockets
• Orders of the court
• Case records.
• Jury records and files
• Small claims judgments

Where can aI find Kansas court records?

Until the entire Kansas court system is added into the centralized case management system, your best bet for finding court records in the state is to review the Kansas Courts website.

You can find links to search for court records and request documents. There is also a search box to help you find district court records by county or district.

Before you get started, it will help to understand how the court system works in the state.

• Supreme Court: As the highest judicial authority in the state, the Kansas Supreme Court hears direct appeals from district courts (in severe criminal cases), cases first heard by the Court of Appeals, and cases in which a statute has been declared unconstitutional.
• Court of Appeals: Except for those cases appealed to the Supreme Court, this appellate court hears appeals on civil and criminal cases from Kansas district courts. The Court of Appeals also hears appeals of decisions from Kansas administrative agencies.
• District Courts: These trial courts hear civil and criminal cases from their jurisdiction.
• Municipal Courts: These city courts deal with city ordinance violations.

To search for cases by the judicial district, you will be directed to the Kansas Office of Judicial Administration. You can search by record number or name.

Your results will only contain case information, not a complete filing record.

To obtain additional information on a case, you will need to contact the County Clerk where the case is filed.

To search for cases brought before the Kansas Supreme Court and the Kansas Court of Appeals, you must use the Kansas Appellate Courts’ Case Inquiry System.

You can search by name, appellate case number, or the county where the case originated.

Kansas Vital Records Records

Kansas Department of Health and Environment maintains public vital records in the state.

Kansas public vital records include:

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

Kansas vital records requests will be different depending on the agency you are making the request.

Office of Vital Statistics
1000 SW Jackson St #120
Topeka, KS 66612

Phone number: 785-296-1400

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

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

• Full name on the birth certificate
• Date of birth
• Place of birth
• Race
• Gender
• Hospital the birth took place
• Full name of both parents

Where can I find a Kansas birth certificate?

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

You can also request a birth certificate in Kansas by phone.

Kansas Division of Public Health
877-305-8315

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

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

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

• Full name on the death certificate
• Date of death
• Race
• Gender
• Place of death
• Date of birth or the deceased age at the time of death
• Marital status
• Spouse’s full name
• Parents’ full name
• Residence at time of death
• Place of birth
• Funeral home
• County where buried

Where can I find a Kansas death record?

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

You can also call the Division of Public Health to request a certified copy of a death record.

Kansas Division of Public Health
877-305-8315

The price for a certified death record is $15 in Kansas.

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

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

• Both spouses’ full names
• Both spouses’ date of birth
• Date of marriage
• The county the marriage license was issued
• The city the marriage took place

Where can I find an existing Kansas marriage record?

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

You can also call the Division of Public Health to request a certified copy of a marriage certificate.

Kansas Division of Public Health
877-305-8315

The price for a certified marriage record is $15 in Kansas.

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

The Application for Certified Copy of Kansas Divorce Certificate requires specific information:

• Both spouses’ full names
• Both spouses’ birth dates
• Date of a divorce
• County the divorce was granted
• City where the divorce took place

Where can I find a Kansas divorce record?

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

You can also call the Division of Public Health to request a certified copy of a divorce decree.

Kansas Division of Public Health
877-305-8315

The price for a certified death record is $15 in Kansas.

Kansas Property Records

The County Appraiser maintains property records in Kansas.

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 Kansas?

Public property record requests differ depending on the county you are requesting the documents from.

Contact your clerk’s office for fees, processes, and office hours.

Where can I find a Kansas property record?

You will contact your local County Appraiser to access public property records.

Example – Russell County
Russell County Appraiser’s Office
1 Courthouse Sq.
Liberty, MO 64068

Phone number: 816-407-3550
Fax: 816-407-3551

FAQs

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

Many Kansas records are considered public, meaning that residents of any state may request them; some records are limited in who is eligible to request them.

You may need to get legal representation, provide proof of your relationship to the person of record, or explain why you are justified in doing a record search.

Is there a records custodian in Kansas?

An agent must designate a local Freedom of Information Act officer to resolve the dispute.

What exemptions exist for public records requests in Kansas?

There are 55 exemptions to the Kansas Open Records Act. Many exemptions deal with personal information, like medical records or adoption records.

Records that pertain to security protocols, criminal investigations, and trade secrets are also exempt from public access.

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

The state of Kansas has three days to respond to a request.

Is there an appeal process for public records requests in Kansas?

Suppose you feel your records request was unfairly denied.

In that case, you can appeal to the Kansas Court of Appeals or the corresponding Clerk of the District Court.

What fees are associated with requesting public records in Kansas?

Public agencies typically charge “reasonable” fees to provide access to or copies of public records. The fees vary depending on the factors involved in researching and providing that specific record.

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Delaware Public Records

If you have ever tried to run a public records search for any records, you have probably noticed that the process is not precisely streamlined. Different departments keep records, some are not approved for the public, and some are just plain hard to find.

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 Delaware public records law say?

The Delaware Freedom of Information Act gives residents access to public documents. The requests are to be met within 15 days.

However, if a request is denied, there is no appeals process. In other words, if a request for records is turned down, the law does not offer any way to fight the decision.

There are certain exemptions specified in the law. As with other states, public safety and security records are exempt from public viewing.

Any records created by the General Assembly, or the legislature of the state, cannot be accessed publicly either.

How can I access public records in Delaware?

For public records access in Delaware, a person must submit a public records request. The request 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
• 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

Delaware criminal records

In Delaware, criminal records are most commonly accessed by employers who want to run a background check on a potential employee.

The State Police maintains criminal records in Delaware.

What’s on a Delaware criminal record?

A criminal record provides a detailed record of a person’s interactions with law enforcement. Traffic violations and misdemeanors may not be on the criminal history.

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
• Sex offender status.
• The law enforcement agency that conducted the arrest, the police department, county sheriff, state police, etc.

Where can I find Delaware criminal records?

The State Bureau of Identification (SBI) handles background check requests in Delaware. The SBI provides certified criminal history reports to requestors through fingerprint cards only, not name searches.

This measure provides privacy protection for everyone. Since fingerprints are required to initiate a background search, a person can consent for one to be conducted. There are not any criminal records provided without a person’s prior knowledge.

Delaware inmate records

The state of Delaware has about 3,500 inmates within its corrections system. Inmate records can provide information on current inmates that are behind bars.

What’s on a Delaware inmate record?

The information listed on an inmate record varies. However, in Delaware, 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:

• Personal information like a person’s name, birth date, and gender
• A mug shot
• Inmate location
• Inmate registration number
• Jail transfer information
• Custody status

Where can I find Delaware inmate records?

The Delaware Department of Corrections website has information. It links to help you locate offenders and a great deal of information for victims and advocates.

You will need to know the person’s Offender ID or first name and last name to search.

Delaware Court Records

Court records can provide a wealth of information from court proceedings. For those looking to access court records, there are resources listed below.

It is important to remember that court records can be difficult to access since they are often held in different courts.

What’s on a Delaware 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:

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

Where can I find Delaware court records?

The Delaware court system is relatively compact as there are only three counties in the state. However, the types of records you wish to gain access to will determine where you need to go. The administrator of the courts is the place to start.

If the case is civil, you can access docket information and some records online through their CourtConnect website.

The Delaware Courts can also provide some direction.

To request documents from the proper court, you will need a basic understanding of how the court system works in the state. The Supreme Court is the highest authority and presides over the Court of Appeals. The Court of Appeals has authority over lower courts, including three superior courts or trial courts within the three counties (Delaware County, New Castle County, and Sussex County) in Delaware.

There are other tiers of court in the state that are worth noting. These tiers include the Justice of the Peace Court, the Court of Common Pleas, Family Court, Court of Chancery, and the Administrative Office of the Courts.

For those having trouble finding the records they are looking for, you can send a request for records to The Renaissance Centre, which is located in Wilmington.

Delaware Vital Records

The Division of Public Health and Office of Vital Statistics maintains public vital records in Delaware.

Delaware vital records include:

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

Delaware vital records requests are different depending on what document you are attempting to obtain.

Division of Public Health and Office of Vital Statistics

Jesse S. Cooper Bldg.
655 S Bay Rd
Dover, DE 19901
302-672-9500

Chopin Building
258 Chapman Rd.
Neward, DE 19702
302-283-7130

Thurman Adams State Serv. Center
546 S. Bedford Street
Georgetown, DE 19947
302-856-5495

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

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

• Full name on the birth certificate
• Gender
• Date of birth
• Place of birth
• Full name of both parents

Where can I find a Delaware birth certificate?

You can access a Delaware birth certificate online using GoCertificates or VitalChek.

Or, you can complete the Application for a Certified Copy of a Delaware Birth Certificate and submit it by mail or in person.

The cost for a Delaware birth certificate is $25 per certified copy.

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

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

• Full name of the deceased
• Gender
• Date of death
• Place of death
• Both parents’ names before marriage

Where can I find a Delaware death record?

You can access a Delaware death record online using GoCertificates or VitalChek.

Or, you can complete the Application for a Certified Copy of a Delaware Death Certificate request form and submit it by mail or in person.

The cost for a Delaware death certificate is $25 per certified copy.

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

The Application for a Certified Copy of a Delaware Marriage Certificate will ask for specific information.

• Full name of both spouses before marriage
• Date of birth of both spouses
• Date of marriage
• Place of marriage

Where can I find an existing Delaware marriage record?

You can access a Delaware marriage certificate online using GoCertificates or VitalChek.

Or, you can complete the Application for a Certified Copy of a Delaware Marriage Certificate request form and submit it by mail or in person.

The cost for a Delaware marriage record is $25 per certified copy.

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

The information on your Delaware public records request will include.

• Full name of both spouses before the divorce
• Dates of birth of both spouses
• Date of divorce
• Place of divorce

Where can I find a Delaware divorce record?

You can access Delaware divorce records online using the Delaware Divorce Records Search.

Delaware Property Records

Delaware public property records and public voter registration information are maintained by the County Recorder’s Office.

The details on a public property record will vary depending on what documents you are requesting.

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

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

Public property records requests in Delaware will differ depending on the document you are accessing and the County Recorder’s Office processes.

Where can I find a Delaware property record?

You will need to contact the County Recorder’s Office in the jurisdiction of the Delaware property record to ask about forms, fees, and processes.

Example – Sussex County
Sussex County Property Requests
2 The Circle
P.O. Box 827
Georgetown, DE 19947
302-855-7785

FAQs

Can a public records request be submitted by non-residents in Delaware?

The law says that only Delaware residents can submit public records requests.

However, other agencies and citizens of other states have requested records and have received them.

Is there a records custodian in Delaware?

Delaware doesn’t have one designated person in any government agency that handles public records.

What exemptions exist for public records requests in Delaware?

The Delaware FOIA spells out 16 specific exemptions.

The exemptions focus on privacy for students, medical patients, law enforcement investigations, trade secrets, weapons permit carriers, and all records about labor negotiations.

Records created by the General Assembly are also exempt from the law.

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

Delaware has 15 days to respond to a request.

Some states don’t specify a timeline, but Delaware does.

Is there an appeal process for public records in Delaware?

The state does not have an outlined appeals process for denied requests. A person can petition the Attorney General if they believe their request was denied incorrectly. The Delaware Attorney General will make a decision one way or another.

What fees are associated with requesting public records in Delaware?

While some states specify how much is charged per record or the cost to copy records, Delaware state law says that fees can be changed to cover the expenses of copying records.

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Vermont Public Records

Vermont started keeping records back in 1776 in all 14 counties. Property records were some of the first records kept, but they grew to births, death, and marriages.

Over the years, the records have gone from paper files to digital files, which makes them easier to access.

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 Vermont public records law say?

Under the state’s Vermont Records Laws, the Department of Public Service must provide access to its records unless specific exemptions are stated otherwise.

The Public Records Act in Vermont resulted from the Watergate scandal and ensures that free and open examination of records held by state agencies is met, transparency and accountability are practiced, and government agencies practice better decision-making procedures to recognize the rights of individuals to privacy.

There are some records created by the Vermont legislature and judicial branches that the state has deemed exempt from public access.

Vermont Attorney General has ruled in favor of keeping these legislative records sealed.

Under the law, there is a stated time frame with a list of procedures to be adhered to, authorizing any aggrieved person the ability to make a challenge in court if denied access to records.

The Vermont Supreme Court has liberally construed this law, noting that the requester’s identity is irrelevant when it comes to deciding whether or not to provide documents.

How can I access public records in Vermont?

In some cases, government records can be found online.

In other cases, a public records request must be sent via email, mail, or phone to the record-holding department.

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

More information can be found on the state website, Vermont.gov.

Vermont Criminal Records

In Vermont, criminal records are most typically utilized by employers who are executing background checks on potential employees.

The Vermont Criminal Conviction Record Internet Service maintains criminal records in Vermont.

What’s on a Vermont 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 criminal record you receive will provide you with this pertinent information:

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

Where can I find Vermont criminal records?

The criminal records in Vermont are official documents provided through the Vermont Criminal Conviction Record Internet Service, a division of the Vermont Criminal Conviction Record Internet Service.

Under this service, users can purchase criminal conviction records from the Vermont Crime Information Center.

The information contained in these files is usually gathered from several sources and is then organized in personal record depositories available to the general public for a criminal background report.

Criminal records include any misdemeanor and felony crimes and any subsequent arrests, indictments, and convictions of their alleged involvement.

A request for criminal conviction history records costs $30 each, which is non-refundable, whether or not a records search produces any actual documents.

Vermont Inmate Records

Inmate records in Vermont consist of offenders incarcerated within the state and correctional facilities, detailing inmate-specific data like sentencing, offense class, parish information, and the inmate’s location.

The Department of Corrections maintains inmate records in Vermont.

What’s on a Vermont inmate record?

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

Conducting a public records search can provide the following information on an inmate:

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

Where can I find Vermont inmate records?

You will use the Agency of Human Services Department of Corrections inmate locator to access the inmate record.

Released offenders can also be found utilizing this tool.

Vermont Court Records

Court records in the state of Vermont contain a wealth of information that is produced via the court system across the state. Those requesting court records can use the resources below to ensure the most efficient methods.

Keep in mind that documents can be hard to access as they are typically held across several state courts within Vermont.

What’s on a Vermont court record?

In most cases, court records are pretty large and come with varying documents. Most people find these documents the most helpful:

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

Where can I find Vermont court records?

The majority of records in the state of Vermont Judicial Bureau are held at the local court clerk’s office, but many cases can be found online.

Vermont Judiciary via VT Courts Online was developed by the Vermont Judiciary to allow requesters to access public information through the internet.

Anyone can search for a case-by-case docket number, the litigant’s name in a case, or court calendars through this portal.

Currently, only civil division cases are accessible to the general public. For other cases, like those heard in superior courts, you need to request records from the court clerk.

Vermont Vital Records

The Vermont Department of Health Vital Records Section maintains vital records in the state.

Vermont’s vital records include:

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

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

Vermont Department of Health Vital Records Section
Vermont Department of Health
Vital Records Section
P.O. Box 70
108 Cherry Street
Burlington, VT 05402-0070

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

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

• Full name on the birth certificate
• Gender
• Parents’ full name

Where can I find a Vermont birth certificate?

You can order a Vermont birth certificate online using the Vital Records Request Service.

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

The cost of a certified birth certificate in Vermont is $10.

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

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

• Full name on the death record
• Gender
• Parents’ full name

Where can I find a Vermont death certificate?

You can order a Vermont death certificate online using the Vital Records Request Service.

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

The cost of a certified death certificate in Vermont is $10.

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

The Application for Certified Copy of Vermont Marriage or Civil Union Certificate will ask for specific information when requesting a marriage record.

• Spouses’ name before marriage
• Date of marriage

Where can I find a Vermont marriage certificate?

You can order a Vermont marriage certificate online using the Vital Records Request Service.

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

The cost of a certified marriage certificate in Vermont is $10.

You can also contact the Town or City Clerk where the marriage took place. Forms, fees, and office hours vary.

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

The Application for Certified Copy of Vermont Divorce or Dissolution Certificate will ask for specific information when requesting a divorce certificate in Vermont.

• Both spouses’ full names before marriage
• Date of divorce

Where can I find a Vermont divorce certificate?

You can order a Vermont divorce certificate online using the Vital Records Request Service.

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

The cost of a certified divorce certificate in Vermont is $10.

You can also contact the Family Court that granted the divorce. Forms, fees, and office hours vary.

Example – Addison County District Court Family Division
7 Mahady Ct
Middlebury, VT 05753

Phone number: 802-388-4237

Vermont Property Records

The Town Clerk or County Recorder of Deeds maintains all property records in Vermont.

The property records you can access include:

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

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 Vermont?

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

Forms, fees, and office hours will vary depending on the Town Clerk or County Recorder where the property record is maintained.

Where can I find a Vermont property record?

You will need to contact the City Clerk or County Recorder of Deeds where the property record is maintained.

Example – Bennington Town Clerk Office
Town of Bennington Land Records
205 South Street
Po Box 469
Bennington, VT 05201

FAQs

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

Anyone can conduct a public records search, whether you live in Burlington, Montpelier, New York City, or nowhere near a New England State.

Is there a records custodian in Vermont?

Vermont public records laws do not mandate a records custodian.

What exemptions exist for public records requests in Vermont?

With 40 general exemptions, Vermont works under the more specific type and is construed rather narrowly.

Most of these are common throughout the state’s Freedom of Information laws.

How long does that state have to respond to a public records request?

Agencies in Vermont have two business days to respond to any requests, although this can be extended by ten days with a written notification.

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

However, Vermont’s public records law says a requester must be able to show that without litigation, the records would not likely be disclosed, plus any public benefits associated with the release of the documents.

It is advisable to appeal sooner as overturning an appeal is slimmer after two years.

What fees are associated with requesting public records in Vermont?

There are nominal fees associated with requesting public records in Vermont, with staff time fees kicking in after half an hour of search time.

A public agency can only charge the actual cost to reproduce documents.

Can I access the Vermont State Archives?

You can access the Vermont State Archives through the Vermont Secretary of State.

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Maine Public Records

To request public records in Maine, you need to know how the process works. Every state differs in handling its public records requests, but Maine is pretty straightforward.

Most states typically have a list of private documents. For instance, government employee salaries and juvenile records are not public record.

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 Maine public records law say?

Maine agencies are generally described as helpful and responsive for public records searches.

Anyone can request public records in the state of Maine. While some states only allow state residents to request records, Maine does not.

Under the Maine Freedom of Access Act, government agencies have five days to respond to requests.

If the request is denied or rejected, a notice must be sent within five business days from the date of submission.

If a request is denied, the public records act does not provide an administrative way to appeal the decision.

Instead, appeals must be made within 30 days of the Superior Court‘s denial.

There are some exemptions to records within Maine; they are specific and mandatory exemptions that have been outlined in the law or mentioned in statutes.

If any record is redacted or withheld, the state agency must provide a reason for it.

The most significant exemption in the Public Records Act is the judicial branch of government.

Maine.gov has more information on the public records act.

How can I access public records in Maine?

Some records are readily available online, but other state records require an official records request. The request can be sent by mail, email, or phone to the corresponding 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

Maine Criminal Records

An individual’s criminal history record is available to the community and general public 24 hours a day/7 days a week, with some restrictions on how information can be released.

Individuals can request public criminal history records maintained by the Maine State Police.

What’s on a Maine criminal record?

A criminal record provides a detailed record of a person’s history with law enforcement. It may not include traffic violations and misdemeanors.

These records are pulled from various sources and include arrest records, convictions, and incarcerations within the state’s 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 Maine criminal records?

Maine’s criminal background checks are executed by the Maine State Police, Maine State Bureau of Identification.

You will search the InforME criminal record database. It produces criminal records reports exclusively for the state of Maine.

A name-based or a fingerprint-based check can be ordered, with a name-based report possible by request for anyone, with or without consent.

The Maine Criminal History Record and Juvenile Crime Information Request Service is an online service that provides electronic access to criminal history records and juvenile crime information maintained by the Maine State Police and the State Bureau of Identification.

Through these records, you have 24-hour access to all the conviction and adjudication information for adult and juvenile crimes committed within the State of Maine that is currently on record, including pending issues that are less than one year old.

Criminal history requests are only accessible for up to 30 days. After 30 days, the records are no longer considered valid, and a new request is necessary.

For general public or non-governmental entities, there is a fee of $31 ($21 for inforME subscribers within the state of Maine) to process requests for criminal history records or juvenile crime information records.

This fee is required for any records searches and does not depend on the search results in question. The fee remains the same for a name-based check or fingerprint-based check.

Maine Inmate Records

The state of Maine has about 5,000 inmates within its corrections system.

Inmate records can provide information on current inmates housed within any correctional facility within the state.

Inmate records are maintained by the State of Maine Department of Corrections.

What’s on a Maine inmate record?

The information on inmate records varies from state to state; in Maine, 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 Maine inmate records?

Information on inmates can be accessed via the Maine Department of Corrections, which has its page to search for inmate records. Using the portal, you can find an inmate’s address, case number, and expected release date.

The Maine Adult Prisoner/Probationer Search Service is free for everyone.

It is the most convenient way to search for inmate records in the Maine Department of Corrections system. It is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and is updated every day.

Note that minors are not included in this search service.

Those making requests should also know that the information provided from this service is not a complete criminal history, which must be obtained through the online Public Criminal History Request service.

Maine Court Records

All court records in Maine are maintained by either state or local governments and can be accessed and disseminated to the public, providing complete documentation of allegations, affidavits, and proceedings taken in a court of law.

The judicial branch in Maine maintains public court records.

What’s on a Maine court record?

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

Most people find the following 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 Maine court records?

The State of Maine Judicial Branch has a new system for criminal and civil search requests. A case number must be presented to obtain documents on a person.

The procedures listed below are applicable for Maine’s District Courts, Superior Courts, and Violation Bureau records:

• All record search requests are submitted using the Request for Records Search form.
• Requests via mail are sent to the Judicial Branch Service Center.
• Any individual that requests a record search on him/herself may query the court to learn where their record is held. Individuals requesting their records are exempt from a research fee.

Maine Vital Records

The Maine CDC Vital Records Office maintains public vital records in the state.

Maine public vital records include:

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

Public record requests for vital records will be different depending on the document you are ordering.

Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention
Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention
11 State House Station
220 Capitol Street
Augusta, ME 04333-0011

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

The birth certificate request form will require specific details.

• Full name on the birth record
• Date of birth
• The city or town the birth took place
• Full name of both parents before marriage

Where can I find a Maine birth certificate?

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

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

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

You can order a non-certified birth record for $10.

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

The death record request form will ask for specific information.

• Full name of the deceased
• The date of death
• The city or town where the death occurred

Where can I find a Maine death record?

You can order a Maine death certificate online using VitalCheck.

Or, you can obtain a Maine death record by completing the appropriate request form and submitting it in person or by mail.

The cost of a certified death certificate in Maine is $15. You can order a non-certified death record for $10.

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

The marriage certificate request form will ask for specific information.

• The full name of both spouses
• The date of the marriage
• The city or town the marriage occurred

Where can I find an existing Maine marriage record?

You can order a Maine marriage certificate online using VitalCheck.

Or, you can obtain a Maine marriage record by completing the appropriate request form and submitting it in person or by mail.

The cost of a certified marriage license in Maine is $15.

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

The divorce record request form will ask for specific information.

• The full name of both spouses
• The date the divorce was granted
• The city or town the divorce was granted

Where can I find a Maine divorce record?

You can order a Maine divorce certificate online using VitalCheck.

Or, you can obtain a Maine divorce record by completing the appropriate request form and submitting it in person or by mail.

The cost of a certified divorce decree in Maine is $15.

Maine Property Records

The Registrar of Deeds maintains public property records in Maine.

The property records you can access include:

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

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

Public property record requests are different depending on the information you are requesting.

Where can I find a Maine property record?

You will need to contact the Registrar of Deeds in the jurisdiction of the record to inquire about the appropriate forms, fees, and office hours.

Example – Kennebec County Registrar of Deeds
Kennebec County Registry of Deeds
77 Winthrop Street
Augusta, ME 04330

Phone number: (207) 622-0431

FAQs

Can a request be submitted by non-residents of the state?

In Maine, there is no law dictating a residency requirement.

Is there a records custodian in Maine?

In Maine, there is no single custodian of records.

What exemptions exist for public records requests in Maine?

There are more than 300 statutory exemptions to the Freedom of Access Act’s definition of what constitutes a public record. Many of these exceptions focus on personal information, medical information, and public safety information.

How long does that state have to respond to a public records request in Maine?

It takes Maine up to five days to answer a public records request.

If it takes longer to access government records, you report it to the Maine Secretary of State.

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

The appeals process can be made to the Superior Court in the county where you live.

Can anyone access, review, and challenge their public records request in Maine?

Per Maine laws, each person has the right to review and challenge their criminal history record information.

Suppose someone disagrees with any information contained on a record. In that case, it is possible to contact the State Bureau of Identification by person or mail to request an amendment or correction of the criminal history record.

The request should indicate the record in question, the nature of the correction sought, and the justification for the amendment.

What fees are associated with requesting public records in Maine?

Fees cover copies and no search exceeds $15 a copy regardless of the state government agency.

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Nevada Public Records

Whether you are working on a school project to trace your family tree, need proof of divorce, or do background checks on applicants for your company, Nevada public records can help you get the information you need.

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 Nevada public records law say?

The Nevada Public Records Act provides a way for residents and non-residents to access public records of any governmental entity, including books and records.

Nevada used Nevada Revised Statutes to update the state’s Public Records Act in 2000. It applies to government agencies and any subdivision of the state, including schools, university foundations, and other entities that serve a role in the government.

Although there are some exceptions to the Nevada Public Records Act, they are pretty standard limitations that you will find in other states under the Freedom of Information Act.

How can I access public records in Nevada?

In most cases, there is no need to explain why you want the records. Nevada provides a public template to help requestors obtain information on the Freedom of Information Act.

There are several ways to request a public record, including email, fax, phone, or postal mail.

Although it is also possible to request Nevada public records in person, you will need to contact the office you are submitting the request for forms, fees, and office hours.

Nevada Criminal Records

The Nevada Department of Public Safety Records, Communications, and Compliance Division maintains all Nevada criminal records.

The information is collected from agencies of criminal justice. It includes arrests, detention, indictments, and the status of an offender on parole or probation, among other things.

A criminal record is a “rap sheet” that contains criminal activity within Nevada’s jurisdiction. The detailed information is available to the person of record or through criminal background checks. Information concerning juveniles is not available.

What’s on a Nevada criminal record?

A criminal record provides a detailed summary of that person’s criminal activity within the state jurisdiction.

This information covers arrests, criminal offenses, indictments, convictions, and, in some cases, incarceration details.

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

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

Where can I find Nevada criminal records?

You will visit Nevada’s VINELink to access the criminal record.

A simple search by name (or ID number) will provide you with basic information on an offender or defendant.

Although you don’t need to register to search, registering on the site will display the full date of birth and ID number of an offender.

While the site was designed to empower victims of crimes with information, it’s available for anyone to use.

Results show offenders who are currently in custody or who may have been recently released. It does not include federal inmates or those in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) custody.

The results of a VINE search will provide the following results:

• Supervision type and status
• Supervision status date
• Supervision start and end date
• Supervision event reason and date
• Supervising officer and his/her phone number
• Reporting agency

You can also sign up for notifications to be alerted when something changes with the offender’s status.

Nevada Inmate Records

The State of Nevada Department of Corrections (NDOC) maintains three facilities, including 11 conservation camps, nine correctional facilities, and two transitional housing centers.

Although searches for inmate records can be done through the NDOC inmate search portal, copies of public records can be requested.

There are some nominal fees associated with requesting a copy of the public book or record. However, the requestor will be notified in advance prior to the request being honored.

What’s on a Nevada inmate record?

Public records are available on most Nevada 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 I find Nevada inmate records?

You will visit the State of Nevada Department of Corrections inmate search to access the inmate record.

As a general rule, only offenders who have received a sentence of incarceration in a Nevada state prison will be in the state records.

Although the information on parolees is available, it may not be current. Those serving probation or who have been arrested and are awaiting trial or sentencing may not be included.

To find information on someone who has been arrested by not sentenced, contact the city or county where they were arrested.

To search the inmate database, use the offender’s first and last name or the person’s Offender ID number.

Nevada court records

With some relatively standard exceptions, most court records in Nevada are available to the public through a simple online search.

There are three trial courts in Nevada: municipal, justice, and district.

Municipal courts tend to handle the small stuff, such as ordinance violations, misdemeanors, and traffic violations. Justice courts deal with small claims, landlord/tenant disputes, misdemeanors in their jurisdictions, and some other civil, criminal, and domestic relations cases.

However, district courts usually preside over criminal cases that include felonies, gross misdemeanors, and other cases outside specific jurisdiction courts.

What’s on a 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 court record includes the following:

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

Where can I find Nevada court records?

To conduct a records search for court records, you will need to go through the court where the case was heard.

Although there is a Nevada Supreme Court and Appellate Courts, you will most likely be searching individual Nevada District Courts to find court records.

Some courts do provide searchable online databases, but others will require you to submit a request in writing or in person.

If you must request a record in person, speak with the county clerk and be prepared to provide case information along with your contact information so records can be delivered to you.

Nevada Vital Records

The Department of Health and Human Services Nevada Division of Public and Behavioral Health (DPBH) maintains vital records in Nevada.

Nevada’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

Department of Health and Human Services Nevada Division of Public and Behavioral Health (DPBH)
Office of Vital Records
4150 Technology Way, Suite 104
Carson City, NV 89706

Phone number: 775-684-4242

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

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

• Full name on the birth record
• Date of birth
• County of birth
• Parents’ full name before marriage

Where can I find a Nevada birth certificate?

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

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

The cost of a certified birth certificate in Nevada is $25 per copy.

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

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

• Full name on the death record
• Date of death
• County of death
• Last 4 of the social security number of the deceased
• Parents’ full name before marriage
• Funeral home

Where can I find a Nevada death record?

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

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

The cost of a certified death certificate in Nevada is $25 for the following counties:

• Carson
• Clark
• Douglas
• Lyon
• Mineral
• Washoe

The cost of a certified death record is $22 in every other county in Nevada.

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

The County Recorder maintains marriage records in Nevada.

The basic information you will need to include with your marriage certificate request is:

• Both spouses’ names
• City and county are listed on the marriage license
• The date of the marriage

Where can I find an existing Nevada marriage record?

You will need to contact the County Recorder’s office where the marriage license was issued to inquire about forms, fees, and office hours.

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

The County Clerk maintains divorce records in Nevada.

The basic information you will need to include with your divorce decree request includes:

• Both spouses’ names
• City and county are listed on the marriage license
• The date of the marriage

Where can I find a Nevada divorce record?

You will need to contact the County Clerk’s office where the marriage license was issued to inquire about forms, fees, and office hours.

Nevada Property Records

The Assessor’s Office maintains property records in Nevada.

The property records you can access include:

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

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 Nevada?

Public property record requests are different depending on the information you are requesting.

You will need to contact your local Assessor’s Office for forms, fees, and office hours.

Where can I find a Nevada property record?

You will need to contact the Assessor’s Office to access a public property record in Nevada.

Example – Clark County Assessor
Clark County Assessor Property Records Forms
500 S Grand Central Pkwy
Suite 2091
Las Vegas, NV

Phone number: 702-455-3882

FAQs

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

Nevada law does not require residency for members of the public to submit public records requests.

Is there a records custodian in Nevada?

Although the law requires the appointment of an employee at each agency to serve as the records office for the entity, they do not have the legal authority to designate a records custodian formally.

What exemptions exist for public records requests in Nevada?

You can find a complete list of exemptions for requested records.

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

Although state agencies have five business days to respond, they can also provide the requester with written notification of why the record is not yet available by the deadline and when it will be.

You can report any time violations to the Nevada Secretary of State.

Is there an appeals process for public information requests in Nevada?

Although there is no administrative appeal option, you can take court action at the county district court where the request was made.

What fees are associated with requesting public records in Nevada?

Nevada law allows agencies to charge fees, but they cannot exceed the actual costs to provide the record, and fees top out at $.50 per page.

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Utah

The role of public records is crucial in an open government. While the Freedom of Information Act grants federal access to documents, each state has its own laws as well.

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 Utah public records law say?

The Government Records Access and Management Act (GRAMA) governs public records in Utah.

As you might expect, the law can be a little confusing. As with many states, documents are often held by different agencies, making locating records difficult. Once found, the process to request records varies.

Each of the states has different policies and laws. In Utah, all government branches are subject to the law, and any public member can view records.

However, there are some exemptions. Records that contain any private information like medical records, addresses of elected officials, or details about government employees are exempted from open record laws.

Usually, a government agency responds to requests in ten days. If a media outlet makes a request, it’s traditionally answered a little faster; within five business days.

If a request is denied, there is an appeals process. A requester can file a complaint with the head of the agency and the State Records Committee. If the case goes further, it ends up in district court.

You can learn more about conducting a public records search at Utah.gov.

How can I access public records in Utah?

For public records access in Utah, you may be able to access some online. Specific agencies hold others. In some cases, you may need to file a request form. It can be filed by mail, email, or by phone to the record-holding department.

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

Utah Criminal Records

The summary of a person’s criminal history is known as a criminal record. It’s also referred to as a rap sheet, which consists of convictions and arrests. These records are maintained by local law enforcement agencies.

The majority of criminal records requested in Utah are by employers who need a background check on a potential employee.

Hiring an employee who will not tarnish your business name is good and, in some cases, may keep your other employees safe.

The Department of Public Safety Bureau of Criminal Identification maintains criminal records in the state.

What’s on a Utah criminal record?

A criminal record is the individual’s history that gives complete details related to the person’s interaction with law enforcement.

Various resources are used to pull these records and ensure that the person’s previous arrest records, convictions, and incarcerations are recorded for the future.

Some misdemeanors and traffic violations are not on a criminal record.

The criminal record you receive will provide you with this pertinent information:

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

Where can I find Utah criminal records?

You will visit the Utah Department of Public Safety to access the criminal record.

The state of Utah has specific rules for requesting criminal records.

Only certain businesses can gain access. Businesses that work with children, like a childcare center or any state or local government, can run a background check. Other private companies aren’t allowed to request records.

However, a company can ask that an employee request their record, which a set of fingerprints must accompany.

Utah Inmate Records

Utah inmate records contain information regarding a person’s current and past incarceration status. These documents can also include sentencing information.

The Utah Department of Corrections maintains criminal records in the state.

What’s on a Utah inmate record?

The information on each state’s inmate’s record can vary.

Utah inmate records can provide the following:

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

Where can I find Utah inmate records?

You will visit the Utah Department of Corrections website to access the inmate record.

You can access information by visiting the website above and filling out the online form.

You need the inmate’s first and last name or the inmate’s ID number.

You’ll receive an immediate response if there’s a record on the inmate that you searched.

Utah Court Records

The courts themselves record court records about criminal cases, as well as Justice Court cases.

Information provided in court records includes allegation documents, proceedings, and affidavits taken under oath.

What’s on a Utah court record?

A court record usually contains specific information that was presented during a trial. You’ll find copies of evidence, witness testimonies, and expert reports inside court records.

Court records that you can obtain are:

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

Where can I find Utah court records?

You will visit the Utah Courts website to access the court record.

You can run an appellate docket search, look through appellate court records, or browse district court records. If you’re looking for a case that’s more than 50 years old, you’ll need to look through archived documents.

While many records are available online, you may be directed to a clerk of court or a county clerk if a document is missing or not electronically logged into the Utah state courts system.

To access supreme court records, visit the Utah Supreme Court website.

Utah Vital Records

The Utah Department of Health maintains vital records in the state.

Utah’s vital records include:

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

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

Office of Vital Records and Statistics – Utah Department of Health
Office of Vital Records and Statistics
Utah Department of Health
288 North 1460 West
P.O. Box 141012
Salt Lake City, UT 84114-1012

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

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

• Full name on the birth record
• Date of birth
• City and county of birth
• Hospital or place of birth
• Parents’ full names

Where can I find a Utah birth certificate?

You can order a Utah birth certificate online using the Office of Vital Records website.

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

The cost of a certified birth certificate in Utah is $20, and $10 for every additional copy.

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

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

• Full name on the death record
• Date of death
• City of death
• County of death
• Birthdate
• Place of birth
• Spouses’ full name before marriage
• Parents’ full names

Where can I find a Utah death certificate?

You can order a Utah death certificate online using the Office of Vital Records website.

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

The cost of a certified death certificate in Utah is $30, and $10 for every additional copy.

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

The Marriage Certificate Request Form will ask for specific information on their public records request form:

• Spouses’ full names before marriage
• Date of marriage
• Place of marriage

Where can I find a Utah marriage certificate?

You can order a Utah marriage certificate online using the Office of Vital Records website.

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

The cost of a certified marriage certificate in Utah is $18, and $10 for every additional copy.

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

The Divorce Certificate Request Form will ask for specific information on their public records request form:

• Spouses’ full names before marriage
• Date of marriage
• Place of marriage
• Date of divorce
• Place the divorce was granted

Where can I find a Utah divorce certificate?

You can order a Utah marriage certificate online using the Office of Vital Records website.

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

The cost of a certified divorce certificate in Utah is $18, and $10 for every additional copy.

Utah Property Records

The Utah County Recorder maintains all 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 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 Utah?

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

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

Where can I find a Utah property record?

You will need to contact the Utah County Recorder’s Office where the property record is maintained.

Example – Salt Lake County Recorder
Salt Lake County Recorder Data Services

Recorder’s Office
2001 S State St.  N1-600
Salt Lake City, UT 84190

Phone number: 385-468-8145

FAQs

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

Utah state law does not have a residency requirement in its constitution.

In other words, you can live anywhere in the United States and request public records.

Is there a records custodian in Utah?

Utah Public Records Laws mandate that a records custodian or an ombudsperson can handle all requests.

What exemptions exist for public records requests in Utah?

Utah’s public records services are reasonably easy.

The only time records are restricted or exempt from the law is if they contain personal information or can impact general security.

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

In Utah, a state agency has ten business days to respond to a public request and five business days to respond to a request from the media.

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

Utah does have several administrative appeals options.

A requester can file a complaint with the head of the public agency that holds the records or file a complaint with the State Records Committee in Salt Lake City. If these options don’t work, a case can be filed in district court.

Are property records considered public in Utah?

Real estate transactions and unclaimed property are both considered public information. If the records are older, consider visiting the Utah State Archives for more information. Most counties in the state, like Utah County, have an online database that can be searched online.

What fees are associated with requesting public records in Utah?

Utah’s law says a state agency can charge a “reasonable fee to cover the actual cost of obtaining the record.” This language is meant to keep fees low.

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Oregon

With the creation of open record laws like the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), it’s easier than ever to access documents that were once unavailable to the general public. That’s not to say finding criminal, court, inmate, or vital records in Oregon is always simple; only that access to public records has improved over the past few decades.

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 Oregon public records law say?

In the Beaver State, the Oregon Public Records Law was designed to guarantee that public members have access to documents from every government agency at all levels.

Sometimes, the information is exempt from the Oregon Public Meetings Law or the Oregon Public Records Law. Other times, the information falls under the public records umbrella but is harder to track down because different agencies or departments handle it.

To learn more about the public records law, visit Oregon.gov.

How can I access public records in Oregon?

A straightforward way to request a public record is using the Oregon Sample FOIA Request template. Created by the National Freedom of Information Coalition, the letter can be sent to the agency you believe holds the record.

The sample letter provides much of the information you’ll need to improve your chances of getting a prompt response, including:

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

Oregon Criminal Records

Oregon state law provides limited public access to criminal history records through Salem’s Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) Division.

You can request a copy of your criminal record using your fingerprints or someone else’s using their name, date of birth, and last known mailing address.

The Oregonian or the individual whose record you are requesting must be notified of your request by law.

The CJIS has 14 days to challenge the accuracy of the criminal offender information. Employers or prospective employers must inform the person whose criminal record they will be requested in advance and indicate on the request form how they informed the record-holder.

What’s on an Oregon criminal record?

Oregon’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.

If the request turns up a criminal history, you will receive an Oregon record of conviction or an Oregon record of arrest less than one year in which there has been no acquittal or dismissal.

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 Oregon criminal records?

The Oregon State Police is the state agency that manages criminal history information for the state.

Access is provided through the Oregon State Police’s CJIS Division’s record program or open records.

Although requests can be made by mail or email by submitting this Request for Oregon Criminal History Information, results that include a criminal history can only be mailed (not emailed).

There is another option for employers seeking to do a more thorough background check on employees or prospective employees. In 2020, Oregon started using the Oregon Criminal History and Abuse Records Data System (ORCHARDS) as its background check system.

The Background Check Unit (BCU) requires employers to obtain authorization from the subject individual (SI) to perform such a check. This is done by requiring the employer to enter an email address for the SI when submitting a background check request. This gives the SI time to enter the permission and any disclosures.

Oregon Inmate Records

There are currently around 30,000 offenders under supervision in Oregon, with approximately 14,900 offenders serving their time in the state’s 14 prisons. 

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

What’s on an Oregon inmate record?

The information listed on an inmate record varies, but in Oregon, 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 Oregon inmate records?

You will visit the Oregon Department of Corrections Offender Search to access the inmate record.

The inmate records search displays information on offenders currently in the custody of the Oregon Department of Corrections or a local Community Corrections office.

Results only include information associated with the offender’s current incarceration, not a complete history of all charges, sentences, or incarcerations.

Searches can be done by first, middle, or last name or State Identification (SID) Number.

Oregon Court Records

Many Oregon court records are available through an online record search if you have a public interest in court records, although there are limitations.

The Oregon Judicial Department (OJD) does not provide court related to adoption, juvenile or mental health cases, or cases under the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA).

What’s on an Oregon court record?

Court documents are not available through the OJD Online Records Search, and personally-identifying information—such as social security numbers, addresses, or other private information—will not be shown in the results.

However, most circuit courts have a court kiosk that provides some additional information and access to most documents on public court records.

Where can I find Oregon court records?

The Oregon Judicial Department provides Oregon Judicial Department Online Records Search to access limited case information in the State Courts, Circuit Courts, the Court of Appeals, and Supreme Court, although the results should not be relied upon as an official record of the court.

There are two ways to obtain the full official register for non-confidential case types:

Via the courthouse public terminals or, for some business entities and public bodies, by subscribing to the OJCIN online.

As for the specifics of what information search results will present, you may find:

• Warrants (including the status, issue date, location, and warrant number)
• Cases (including the type, district attorney information, file date, police reports, status, and location)
• Judgments (including the date/time of judgment, type, and award)

Oregon Vital Records

The Center for Health Statistics (CHS) maintains vital records in Oregon.

Oregon’s vital records include:

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

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

Oregon Health Authority – The Center for Health Statistics (CHS)
Oregon Vital Records
P.O. Box 14050
Portland, OR 97293-0050

Phone number: 503-373-0953

What information do I need to request an Oregon birth certificate?

The Oregon Birth Record Order Form will ask for specific information when ordering a birth record.

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

Where can I find an Oregon birth certificate?

You can order an Oregon birth certificate online using VitalCheck.

Or, you can request a certified copy of an Oregon birth record by completing the Oregon Birth Record Order Form and submitting it by mail or in person.

The cost of a certified birth certificate in Oregon is $25.

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

The Oregon Death Record Order Form will ask for specific information when ordering a death record.

• Full name on the death record
• Date of death
• Place of death
• Spouses’ full name before marriage

Where can I find an Oregon death certificate?

You can order an Oregon death certificate online using VitalCheck.

Or, you can request a certified copy of an Oregon death record by completing the Oregon Death Record Order Form and submitting it by mail or in person.

The cost of a certified death certificate in Oregon is $25.

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

The Oregon Marriage Record Order Form will ask for specific information when ordering a marriage record.

• Spouses’ full names
• Date of marriage
• Place where the marriage license was issued

Where can I find an Oregon marriage certificate?

You can order an Oregon marriage certificate online using VitalCheck.

Or, you can request a certified copy of an Oregon marriage record by completing the Oregon Marriage Record Order Form and submitting it by mail or in person.

The cost of a certified marriage certificate in Oregon is $25.

You can also contact the City Hall that issued the marriage license.

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

The Oregon Divorce Record Order Form will ask for specific information when ordering a divorce record.

• Spouses’ full names
• Date of divorce
• The county that issued the divorce decree

Where can I find an Oregon divorce certificate?

You can order an Oregon divorce certificate online using VitalCheck.

Or, you can request a certified copy of an Oregon divorce record by completing the Divorce Record Order Form and submitting it by mail or in person.

The cost of a certified marriage certificate in Oregon is $25.

Oregon Property Records

The County Licensing and Recording Division maintains all property records in Oregon.

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 Oregon?

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

Local government forms, fees, and office hours will vary depending on the County Licensing and Recording Division office.

Where can I find an Oregon property record?

You will need to contact the County or City Recorder’s office where the property record is maintained.

Example – Marion County Licensing and Recording Division
Marion County Clerk Property Records website
Marion County Clerk
PO Box 14500
Salem, Oregon 97309

Phone number: 503-588-5225

FAQs

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

There are no residency requirements for obtaining Oregon public records.

Citizens of any state can submit an Oregon public records request form.

Is there a records custodian in Oregon?

Oregon does not designate a records custodian. Records management is the responsibility of individual government agencies.

What exemptions exist for public records in Oregon?

The exemptions in Oregon are relatively straightforward.

Records that contain personal information deal with matters of public safety, or include addresses of elected officials, for example, are all exempt from public disclosure.

Most exemptions of Oregon’s Public Records Law are standard in and the public interest.

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

Oregon does set a deadline in terms of business days.

However, the Oregon public records law states that agencies should be given a “reasonable opportunity to inspect and copy records.”

Is there an appeals process for public records requests in Oregon?

There is no appeals option in the state of Oregon.

While many states offer the possibility of an administrative appeal through the Attorney General, Oregon does not.

A requester can, however, file a lawsuit according to Oregon Revised Statutes.

What fees are associated with requesting public records in Oregon?

Fees must be kept to the actual costs of searching and copying records. It is always best to check fee schedules.

Agencies must provide the requestor with an estimate if the price exceeds $25 before proceeding. There are fee waivers for media outlets.