Find Michigan Public Records
Is Michigan a Public Records State?
Yes, Michigan is a public records state. The state's public records are governed by the Michigan Freedom of Information Act, which allows residents to access any document owned, used, or prepared by a public body in the course of its official duties. This includes records from state officers, agencies, bureaus, divisions, and councils. Michigan public records can exist in various formats such as typewritten documents, digital recordings, photographs, microfilm, and more.
What is Public Information in Michigan?
Public information in Michigan encompasses a wide range of records, including but not limited to:
- Arrest records
- Criminal records
- Inmate records
- Property records
- Bankruptcy records
- Marriage records
- Divorce records
- Birth records
- Sex offender information
It is important to note that, as of 2021, the Michigan Supreme Court ruled that personal information such as birth dates is no longer categorized as public records.
How Do I Look Up Public Records in Michigan?
To look up public records in Michigan, follow these steps:
Step 1: Identify the Type of Record Needed
Determine the specific type of record you need. Public records in Michigan fall into various categories, such as vital records (birth, death, marriage, divorce), criminal records, and civil records.
Step 2: Identify the Relevant Government Agency
Direct your request to the appropriate state department. For instance, marriage, divorce, birth, and death records can be obtained from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. For inmate records, contact the Michigan Department of Corrections, and for court records, reach out to the Michigan Judiciary.
Step 3: Check Accessibility
Ensure the record is not exempt from public disclosure under FOIA. Some records, like vital records, may only be accessible to the individuals named in the records or their immediate family members.
Step 4: Verify Availability
Some records are available online, while others may require an in-person visit to the relevant public body.
Step 5: Submit a Request
Submit a written request to the record custodian. Ensure your request contains enough information to facilitate the search. Requests can be sent via email or physically.
Utilizing Third-Party Resources for Michigan Public Records Obtaining
City Records
Third-party websites may offer access to public city records. These platforms often provide user-friendly tools for conducting broad searches. To use these services, you may need to provide:
- The name of the subject (must be over 18)
- The address of the requester
- Case number or file number (if known)
- Location of the document or person involved
- Last known or current address of the registrant
Public Records
Third-party public records websites aggregate data from multiple sources, offering expansive search capabilities. Users must provide sufficient information, such as the name and location of the record subject. These sites are not government-sponsored, so the availability and accuracy of records may vary.
How To Look Up Public Records in Michigan for Free?
To access Michigan public records for free, you can request a physical inspection at the custodial government office. Some records are available online at no cost. For example, residents can search for Michigan inmate records or the Michigan sex offender registry using online tools provided by the Michigan Department of Corrections and State Police. County-specific records can also be accessed for free through tools provided by county clerk's offices. However, obtaining physical copies of records may incur fees for printing or duplication.
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