

What is Exempted Under the Michigan Public Record Law? Record seekers may ask to either physically inspect the record or obtain a copy of the record. In 1996, Michigan's legislature made changes to state laws to exclude oral requests. Thus, record custodians may deny access to anyone incarcerated in a local or state-run correctional facility.Īlso, record requests must be made in writing to the record custodian. Note: Michigan law limits the public records access of individuals housed in correctional facilities. Individuals conducting background checks for official reasons, however, must follow related state or federal regulations. For this reason, anyone can obtain a Michigan public record for any purpose, including to find out more about a person's background. Michigan law places no restrictions on age or residency to obtain public records produced or managed in the state, nor does it limit how persons should use these records. Who Can Access Michigan Public Records?Īlmost anyone may access Michigan public records. Sometimes, these agencies provide electronic access. Usually, one must submit a public records act request to an official custodian to view or copy public records.
Free access to public records free#
As a result, interested individuals can conduct a paid or free public data search to retrieve such records from government agencies (like a county sheriff's office) or independent public record providers. The Michigan Freedom of Information Act allows citizens to access public records. Note: In 2021, the Michigan Supreme Court ruled that personal information such as birth dates would no longer be categorized as public records. Some examples of Michigan public records include: It may also include paper tapes, microfilm, punched cards, or information preserved via other recordings. Michigan public records may exist in different recorded forms, such as typewritten documents, digital recordings, and photographs. This includes records produced by a state officer, agency, bureau, division, or council. Michigan's Freedom of Information Act permits access to any writing owned, used, or prepared by a public body during the performance of an official function. Except where restricted by law or court order, most government-generated records are open to the public.
