Your Comprehensive Guide to Michigan Public Records

Michigan Public Records

Public records in Michigan include a broad range of documents and information held by state and local government agencies, accessible to the public under the Michigan Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). This Act, codified in Michigan Compiled Laws §§ 15.231 to 15.246, establishes the right of every citizen to access government records, with specified exemptions for privacy, confidentiality, and public interest. Individuals can access the Michigan Freedom of Information Act to explore the details of the Michigan FOIA.

Are Michigan Records Public?

Yes, records in Michigan are public. The Michigan Freedom of Information Act mandates public access to state and local government records, subject to certain exceptions. The Michigan Attorney General's website provides additional details about accessing publGeneral'ss.

What do Michigan Public Records Include?

Michigan public records encompass a variety of documents and information:

• Vital Records: Birth, death, marriage, and divorce records managed by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. More information can be found at Michigan Vital Records.
• Property Records: Information on property ownership, valuations, and taxes, accessible through local County Equalization Departments, such as the Wayne County Equalization Department.
• Criminal Records: Managed by the Michigan State Police, offering criminal history and background checks. Visit Michigan State Police Criminal Records.
• Court Records: These include records from civil and criminal cases, accessible through the Michigan Courts. Information can be found at Michigan Courts.
• Business Records: The Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs oversees business filings and registrations. Detailed information is available at Michigan LARA Corporations Division.

How to Find Public Records in Michigan

To find public records in Michigan, follow these steps:

1. Identify the Record Type: Determine the specific type of record you need, such as a property or vital record.
2. Locate the Responsible Agency: Different records are held by different agencies. For instance, vital records are available through the Department of Health and Human Services.
3. Submit a Records Request: Each agency has a process for requesting records, typically available online, in person, or by mail.
4. Follow the Agency’Agency'sines: Adhere to the agency's specific requirements, including completing forms and providing necessary identification.
5. Pay Any Required Fees: Some records may involve fees for processing or copying.
6. Wait for Processing: After submission, there may be a processing period before the records are available.

For additional guidance, the Michigan Attorney GeneralGeneral'sesource Page offers comprehensive information.

Lookup Public Records in Michigan

Key departments in Michigan related to Public Records include:

• Michigan Department of Health and Human Services: For vital records like birth and death certificates. Visit Michigan Vital Records.
• County Equalization Departments: For property records like the Wayne County Equalization Department.
• Michigan State Police: For criminal records and background checks. More information at Michigan State Police Criminal Records.
• Michigan Courts: For court records. See Michigan Courts.
• Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs: For business records. Check out Michigan LARA Corporations Division.