public record (2024)

Public records contain information, minutes, files, accounts, or any other documents that a governmental body is required to maintain, and must be accessible to the public. The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) was adopted in the United States in 1967 with the purpose of keeping citizens in the know about their government, and the public record is the result of the FOIA. Each state in the United States handles public records with its own set of laws and regulations. Public records aren't always free, collecting a fee for obtaining a public record is standard practice that varies by state.

[Last updated in April of 2022 by the Wex Definitions Team]

public record (2024)

FAQs

Public record? ›

Florida has a very broad public records law. Most written communications to or from state officials regarding state business are public records that are available to the public. Records and information may be readily available at no cost via one of DEP's online resources.

Does Florida have free public records? ›

Florida has a very broad public records law. Most written communications to or from state officials regarding state business are public records that are available to the public. Records and information may be readily available at no cost via one of DEP's online resources.

What is the best free website for public records? ›

All Federal court records are available online at PACER.gov, an electronic public access service that is overseen by the Administrative Office of the United States Courts. This includes all Federal civil court cases, criminal charges, as well as bankruptcies. In all, there are over 500 million documents on PACER.

Does Florida have MyCase? ›

MyCase is an approved member benefit provider for The Florida Bar.

How to search property records in Florida? ›

Most records are searchable and accessible through the internet from the Board of Trustees Land Document System (BTLDS). A mapping component of BTLDS also provides a graphical depiction of parcel locations. These documents are stored in a climate-controlled vault.

How much does it cost to get public records in Florida? ›

PUBLIC RECORDS REQUEST CHARGES & FEE SCHEDULE
ScheduleFees
Duplicated copies of not more than 8.5 by 14 inches one-sided$0.15 per Copy
Duplicated copies of not more than 8.5 by 14 inches two-sided$.20 per Page
All other copiesActual Cost of Duplication
Certified copies with county seal and signature$1.00 per Copy
5 more rows

How do I look up criminal records in Florida? ›

How to Get Your Certified Criminal Record:
  1. Go to the FDLE website: Florida Department of Law Enforcement Criminal History Record Check.
  2. Read the general information and click on the blue tab labeled, "Certified Search."
  3. Click on the blue link labeled, "Certified Florida Criminal History Search." Follow the directions.

What is the best site to find information on someone for free? ›

What are the best free people search sites?
Free people search siteSearch methodPremium plan available
That's ThemName, address, phone, email, IP, VIN
WhitepagesName, phone, address, business
Zaba SearchName, phone
TinEyePhoto
1 more row
Jul 10, 2024

How to do a background check on someone you are dating? ›

Running a background check on your date consists of three steps.
  1. Run a criminal background check at the county, state, and/or multi-state level.
  2. Check sex offender registries.
  3. Search their social media profiles and online footprint.

Are mugshots public in Florida? ›

After an arrest in Florida, law enforcement agencies record the suspect's personal information and fingerprints and capture two photographs – a front view and a profile. These mugshots become an integral part of an individual's Florida arrest records, which are generally open to the public unless expunged or sealed.

Does Florida have open court records? ›

Under the law, the public has a presumptive right of access to all court records in the custody of the court clerk, including case dockets, transcripts, motions filed by the parties to a lawsuit, exhibits filed with the court as evidence, and records of depositions filed with the court.

Are death certificates public record in Florida? ›

Type of Certificate:

Death certificate without cause of death (public record) Death certificate with cause of death (confidential for 50 years - VALID PHOTO IDENTIFICATION REQUIRED).

Where can I find public records in Florida? ›

How Do I Find Public Records in Florida?
  • For arrest records, contact the Sheriff's Office where the arrest was made.
  • For vital records, visit the Florida Bureau of Vital Statistics.
  • For inmate records, visit the Florida Department of Corrections (FDC).
  • For court records, contact the clerk at the appropriate court.

At what age do you stop paying property taxes in Florida? ›

You are 65 years of age, or older, on January 1; You qualify for, and receive, the Florida Homestead Exemption; Your total 'Household Adjusted Gross Income' for everyone who lives on the property cannot exceed statutory limits.

Are deeds public record in Florida? ›

Use your county's property appraiser site to double check your deed is correct and you are shown as the owner of record. #tamparealestate #titlecompany #weappreciateyou.

Who can request and access Florida's public records? ›

It is the policy of this state that all state, county, and municipal records are open for personal inspection and copying by any person. Providing access to public records is a duty of each agency.

What is exempt from public records in Florida? ›

Records exempt from public records disclosure include: Lists of retirees' names or addresses. Social Security numbers of current and former members. Birth certificates and cause of death on death certificates.

How can I find free mugshots in Florida? ›

Those who need to retrieve one or more mugshots for any reason should visit the Florida Department of Corrections (DOC) Corrections Offender Network webpage.

What is the Sunshine Law in Florida? ›

The three basic requirements of the Sunshine Law are: (1) meetings of public boards or commissions must be open to the public; (2) reasonable notice of such meetings must be given; and (3) minutes of the meetings must be taken. WHAT AGENCIES ARE COVERED BY THE SUNSHINE LAW?

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