Kansas PUBLIC RECORDS SEARCH

Kansas State Public Records Search Online

The commitment to open records in Kansas extends beyond a mere legal obligation – it reflects the state's dedication to cultivating an engaged and informed citizenry.

The state carefully manages and provides access to public records as its mission is to strengthen its democratic processes by being a transparent and responsive government to the people it serves.

The Kansas Open Records Act (KORA) has been central to the state's devotion to government openness and public accountability.

This legislation allows Kansas citizens to easily access a wealth of government records. With this information, residents can better scrutinize their elected officials and public agencies' decisions and actions.

What Records are Public in Kansas?

Public records in Kansas consist of a wide range of documents and information generated, maintained, or received by government agencies and officials during public business. These records come in various formats, including physical documents, digital files, structured data in online databases, audio and video recordings of hearings, and photographs or scanned images.

What is Considered Public Information in Kansas?

In Kansas, a variety of information is considered public under the KORA. Here's an overview of what's typically considered public information:

• Government records: Most documents maintained by state and local government agencies
• Court records: Including case files, dockets, and judgments, unless sealed by court order
• Property records: Information about land ownership, property taxes, and real estate transactions
• Voter registration information: Basic voter data, excluding sensitive details like Social Security numbers
• Business records: Information about registered businesses, including ownership and incorporation details
• Criminal records: Arrest records, convictions, and inmate information
• Vital records: Certain information from birth, death, marriage, and divorce records, though access may be restricted
• Professional licenses: Information about state-issued professional licenses
• Campaign finance reports: Political contributions and expenditures
• Salaries of public employees: Compensation information for government workers

However, some information may be exempt from disclosure to protect privacy or sensitive data. Specific personal details, ongoing investigations, and certain medical information are typically not public. Always check current Kansas laws or consult with relevant authorities for the most up-to-date information on public record accessibility.

Kansas Public Records Laws

Kansas provides a state-specific framework for transparency and public access to records through the Kansas Open Records Act (KORA). This law is tailored to reflect the priorities and values of Kansas residents, including specific exemptions and procedural details that align with state interests.

On the federal level, the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) provides a mechanism for accessing records from federal agencies.

What is KORA?

KORA is the legislation that governs public access to records held by state departments, local government offices, and other entities within Kansas. It was enacted in 1984, and it establishes the procedures and rules for obtaining public records.

KORA outlines the types of records that are accessible, the process for making records requests, and the exemptions that may restrict access to certain information. The Kansas Attorney General's Office largely implements and oversees the law.

KORA is codified in the Kansas Statutes Annotated (KSA) Sections 45-215 to 45-223. It is a collection of Kansas state laws related to public records. Key sections of the KSA that regulate public record access include:

• KSA 45-221: Details specific exemptions to KORA.
• KSA 21-2511: Addresses the availability of criminal history information.
• KSA 65-2417: Governs the availability of medical records.

What is FOIA in Kansas?

The Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), enacted in 1966, authorizes individuals in Kansas to request access to records and information held by federal agencies while outlining certain exemptions related to personal privacy, national security, and law enforcement.

Who Can Access Public Records in Kansas?

In Kansas, any member of the public can access public records. As per KORA, all citizens, including residents, non-residents, businesses, and organizations, have the right to request and inspect public records maintained by government agencies.

Based on KSA 45-218, public agencies must respond to records requests within three business days. This section mandates that agencies must acknowledge receipt of a request and either provide the requested records, deny the request, or notify the requester of the anticipated time frame for fulfilling the request.

Additionally, KSA 45-219 outlines agencies' need to establish and offer uniform procedures for requesting records.

Kansas Public Records Search

Kansas public records search allows residents to access a wide range of records both online and offline.

Online, individuals can utilize official agency websites and specialized portals to conveniently search for various records, including court documents and property assessments.

For those who prefer offline methods, options are available to visit government offices in person, submit written requests by mail, or make phone inquiries for records.

How To Find Kansas Public Records Online

KS residents have several options when finding public records online. They can request records through government agency online portals, third-party websites, or through email.

Each type of record is managed by a designated custodian responsible for maintaining it, who may impose certain conditions for accessing records.

Access Through Kansas Government Web Portals

People of Kansas can access records more conveniently through government web portals. Here's how to use them:

• Determine the type of record needed.
• Identify the agency that maintained the record.
• Navigate the agency's website and find relevant online portals/tools.
• Access the portal and follow the instructions given.
• Provide the required information and other requirements.
• Pay the applicable fees using the agency's accepted payment methods.
• Wait for the request to be processed.
• Receive, review, and utilize the records.

Purchase from Third Party Websites

Kansas public records may also be retrieved through third-party websites. These non-government platforms often provide intuitive search tools for more extensive searches.

To use the search tools on third-party sites, individuals may need to provide some key details, such as:

• The name of the person the record is about (as long as they are not a minor)
• The requestor's address
• Any known case or file numbers
• The location of the record or person involved

Note that third-party websites are not affiliated with government agencies, so the availability and accuracy of the records may differ from official sources.

Request Through Email

Requesting public records in Kansas by email is a convenient method.

The requester should first identify the appropriate government agency or record custodian. Next, they need to find the agency's email address, which can be found online or by contacting the agency directly.

If the agency provides a public records request form template, using it is advisable. The request should clearly describe the needed record, including dates or document types.

The requester must follow the agency's instructions for any required payment to cover costs. Finally, the completed request and forms should be sent to the agency's email address.

How To Find Kansas Public Records Offline?

Public records in Kansas can also be gathered offline, primarily through mail-in requests or in-person visits, each with unique considerations.

Those who prefer to request public records in person can visit the relevant agency's offices. Some agencies, such as the Shawnee County Recorder's office, provide public access lobbies where interested individuals can search for and retrieve certain records, such as county mortgage and deed records.

When visiting the agency in person, requesters can work directly with the records custodian during business hours to get the desired information.

For mail-based requests in Kansas, individuals should start by finding the mailing address of the government agency or records custodian responsible for the information they need. They may obtain this address in public libraries or through phone inquiries.

When writing the request letter, individuals should clearly describe the record they seek, the approximate date it was created, and any relevant identification numbers, such as case or license numbers. If applicable, they should also mention the names of any involved parties.

The letter should be accompanied by the correct postage and any required payment as specified by the agency.

Types of Public Records in Kansas

Kansas public records are kept by state and local government agencies to offer insights into various aspects of life in Kansas, like legal cases, important data and statistics, real estate transactions, etc.

Some of the most commonly searched Kansas public records are as follows:

State of Kansas Public Court Records

Court records are official documents and filings related to legal proceedings within the state's judicial system. These records include materials formally submitted as part of a court case, such as case filings, motions, and judgments.

Individuals seeking these records can search online through the Kansas Courts website. The Kansas eCourt portal is located there, and it offers a centralized platform for retrieving details about court records.

Kansas Public Bankruptcy Records

Kansas bankruptcy records are created from court proceedings related to bankruptcy cases within the state.

These records, which document the details of bankruptcy cases filed within the state, are maintained by the court clerk for ten years from the initial filing date. After this time, they are transferred to the National Archives for long-term storage and preservation.

Kansas bankruptcy records can be accessed through the court clerk's offices located at the following addresses:

Kansas City: Robert J. Dole Courthouse

500 State Avenue, Room 161

Kansas City, KS 66101

Phone: (913) 735-2110

Office Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday (closed on federal holidays)

Topeka: Frank Carlson Federal Building

444 South East Quincy, Room 240

Topeka, KS 66683

Phone: (785) 338-5910

Office Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday (closed on federal holidays)

Wichita: Wichita United States Courthouse

401 North Market, Room 167

Wichita, KS 67202

Phone: (316) 315-4110

Office Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday (closed on federal holidays)

In addition to visiting a court location, the Public Access to Court Electronic Records (PACER) tool is one convenient method of accessing bankruptcy data. The platform allows users to access electronic copies of bankruptcy records for $0.10 per page. To use PACER, individuals must create an account and log in with their credentials to access the desired documents.

Kansas residents can also utilize the Multi-Court Voice Case Information System (MCVCIS) at (866) 222-8029. This free telephone-based system allows individuals to get a general overview of the bankruptcy case, including the case status, debtor information, filing date, and scheduled hearings.

County Court Records in Kansas

In Kansas, county-level court records are managed by the district courts, which serve as trial courts with general original jurisdiction over a broad spectrum of cases. These cases include civil lawsuits, juvenile matters, probate and estate administration, and guardianships.

The official website of the Kansas Judicial Branch offers a complete directory of district courts throughout Kansas. It is advisable to contact the court clerk's office directly before submitting a request or visiting in person.

Kansas Criminal Records

Kansas criminal records, often called "rap sheets", are official documents detailing an individual's criminal history and convictions within the state. These records can include various details, such as arrests, charges, convictions, and any related court proceedings or involvement with correctional facilities.

The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) is the central repository for criminal records and the primary custodian of this information. To search this record, the KBI maintains a centralized criminal history information database and offers a Criminal History Record Search on its website.

Requesters must create a KanAccess account to use this platform. Once registered, they can conduct searches for criminal records on specific individuals for a fee of $30.

Kansas Public Arrest Records

Public arrest records in Kansas detail an individual's apprehension following their alleged involvement in criminal activity. These records usually include details such as the following:

• Alleged criminal offense
• Arrestee's personal information
• Location and date of the arrest
• Address of the holding facility
• Current status of the case

To secure a copy of a public arrest record in KS, interested requesters generally need to visit the law enforcement agency responsible for the arrest in person. At the agency, the record custodian will require the arrestee's specific details to process the request.

Kansas Sex Offenders Records

Kansas sex offender records are maintained for public safety and legal reasons. These records provide information about individuals who have been convicted of sex offenses and are registered under the Kansas Offender Registration Act (KSA 22-4901).

The KBI (Kansas Bureau of Investigation) maintains a centralized sex offender registry, a public database that compiles information on registered sex offenders throughout the state. This registry is coordinated with local law enforcement agencies, which manage their county-level registries as part of the mandatory sex offender registration program.

Kansas Warrant Records

Warrant records in Kansas are legal documents issued by a judge or magistrate that authorize law enforcement to take specific actions. They can be bench, arrest, search, or tax warrants.

Residents in KS conduct warrant searches when verifying their current legal status or addressing any outstanding legal obligations.

Many law enforcement agencies across Kansas, such as county sheriff's offices and municipal police departments, have created online platforms that allow the general public to freely search for information about outstanding arrest warrants.

For example, the Johnson County Sheriff's Office operates a Warrant Search system on its website that gives residents the ability to look up warrants by an individual's name or the city where they reside.

Also, the KBI (Kansas Bureau of Investigation) maintains a publicly accessible list of the state's most wanted criminal offenders. These are individuals who have had arrest warrants issued against them by district courts within Kansas.

Arrest warrants in KS remain active until the named individual is apprehended or fulfills their legal obligations, while search warrants expire after ten days.

Kansas Vital Records

Vital records in Kansas are official documents that capture significant life events, such as births, marriages, divorces, and deaths, for state residents.

Official birth and death certificates from July 1, 1911, and marriage certificates from May 1, 1913, are available from the Office of Vital Statistics (OVS) under the Kansas Department of Health & Environment (KDHE).

Some historical county-level vital records from Kansas, such as birth and death registers from around 1885 to 1911 and marriage records up to around 1913, can be found at the Kansas Historical Society (KHS) or the county clerks.

The Uniform Vital Statistics Act governs the dissemination and disclosure of these records.

Kansas residents may request a certified copy of their birth, death, marriage, or divorce certificate from the OVS. The OVS is open for in-person requests from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. For additional assistance, individuals can call the OVS at 785-296-1400.

The OVS also accommodates requests through the IKAN mobile app. This platform allows users to request certified copies of birth certificates, death certificates, marriage certificates, and other vital records from their mobile devices.

For mail-in applications, requests should be sent to the address below (check the information below for the required form for every vital record type):

Kansas Office of Vital Statistics

1000 Southwest Jackson, Suite 120

Topeka, KS 66612-2221

Kansas Public Birth Records

In Kansas, birth records document all live births occurring within the state. These records include the child's full name, gender, date and place of birth, and the parents' names. However, birth records in Kansas are not public documents and are tightly controlled by the OVS (Office of Vital Statistics).

As per KSA (Kansas Statutes Annotated) 65-2422, certified copies of birth certificates can only be issued to the following:

• Individuals named on the record
• Immediate family members
• Legal representatives
• Those who can show a direct legal interest in the record

To order certified copies of Kansas birth records, interested individuals must complete the Application for Certified Copy of Kansas Birth Certificate and submit it to the OVS.

Kansas Public Death Records

A death record in Kansas is legal proof of an individual's death and is required for various administrative and financial purposes, such as settling the deceased's estate, claiming life insurance benefits, and transferring property ownership.

To get a copy of death records, eligible requesters must submit a signed Application for Certified Copy of Kansas Death Certificate to the OVS (Office of Vital Statistics).

Kansas Public Marriage Records

A marriage record in Kansas is an official document that confirms a legally performed and registered marriage. This record contains details such as the names of the spouses, the date and location of the marriage, and potentially the officiant's name.

To request this, one must complete the Application for Certified Copy of Kansas Marriage Certificate and forward it to the OVS (Office of Vital Statistics).

For marriage records created before 1913, abstracts are available to the public and can be accessed through the KHS (Kansas Historical Society) or the county clerk.

Kansas Public Divorce Records

A divorce record in KS consists of the full collection of documents generated throughout the legal dissolution of a marriage. A divorce case file includes various other court documents, such as:

• Motions and petitions filed by the parties
• Summons and orders issued by the court
• Reports and assessments conducted during the proceedings
• Transcripts of any hearings or testimony

Divorce records are maintained by the offices of the clerks of the district courts in the counties where the original divorces were filed and finalized. The specific county-level court will have custody of the complete case files for divorces that occurred within their jurisdiction.

Divorce records may contain sensitive information, so access can be restricted. To get a full copy of one's own divorce case file, the individual must request it from the district court clerk.

However, the OVS (Office of Vital Statistics) can provide certified copies of the divorce certificate, which is a more limited document summarizing the key details. To request a certified copy, fill out the Application for Certified Copy of Kansas Divorce Certificate and send it to the OVS.

Fees For Obtaining Vital Records in Kansas

The fees for securing vital records in Kansas vary based on the method of request and the agency through which the request is made. Below is a detailed breakdown of the fees for each method:

OVS (Office of Vital Statistics) Fees:

• Walk-in Requests: $20 per copy
• Mail-in Requests: $20 per certified copy (payment by check or money order)
• Expedited Service: $13.95

IKAN Mobile App Fees:

• $20 per certificate plus a $5 processing fee

KHS (Kansas Historical Society) Fees:

• Photocopies: $0.35 per page
• Certified Documents: $3 per document
• Self-Service Microfilm Photocopies: $0.25 per page

Note that fees may change. For the latest rates, verify on the OVS website or contact the KHS directly.

Kansas Property Records

Kansas property records provide detailed information about a specific property or parcel of land. These records include vital components such as:

• Deeds
• Tax records
• Mortgage and loan documents
• Surveys and plats

Property records are updated whenever there is a change in ownership, such as through a sale, gift, or inheritance. The Register of Deeds office in the county where the property is located is responsible for maintaining and managing these records.

For a complete list of these offices and their contact information, refer to the Kansas Register of Deeds Association (KRDA) official website. It is advisable to contact the relevant office directly, as some may offer online platforms for searching property records.

Kansas Inmate Records

Kansas inmate records provide identifying details and crime-related data about individuals incarcerated within the state's correctional system. The custodians of these records vary by jurisdiction:

• State Level: The Kansas Department of Corrections (KDOC) is responsible for maintaining official records for state prisons.
• Local Level: Municipal police departments and county sheriff's offices maintain inmate records for their respective jurisdictions.

Kansas residents can search for state prison inmate records through the KDOC website using the Kasper Offender Search, which is available for free.

To obtain county-level inmate records, residents should identify the appropriate county and visit the sheriff's office or detention facility website for an online inmate search tool.

If online resources are unavailable, individuals can contact the county jail directly or visit in person. Some counties may require a formal public records request to access detailed information.

Kansas Traffic Records

Traffic or driving records in Kansas offer a detailed overview of an individual's driving history and are managed by the Division of Vehicles (DOV) of the Kansas Department of Revenue (KDOR).

Kansas traffic records, regulated under the Driver's Privacy Protection Act (DPPA), contain a range of information related to a driver's history, such as:

• Traffic violations and tickets
• Fines
• Driver's license suspensions or revocations
• Details about traffic accidents, regardless of who was at fault
• Convictions and sentences related to driving offenses

Requests for traffic records can be made in several ways. In-person requests can be fulfilled by visiting any local DOV office. For those who prefer to request records by mail, the completed Request to Access Vehicle Records form should be sent along with the appropriate payment to the following address:

Kansas Department of Revenue

Driver Control Bureau

P.O. Box 12021

Topeka, KS 66612-2021

For an online method, employ the KDOR Request for Electronic Access to Vehicle Records system. To use this service, the individual must provide the necessary information and verify eligibility to receive the requested records.

Requesting a certified record costs $20, while a non-certified record can be ordered for $15.

License Plate Lookup in Kansas

A Kansas license plate lookup involves searching for and obtaining information about a vehicle using its license plate number. This process can reveal various details about the vehicle, including:

• Branded title information
• Accident or damage reports
• Vehicle registration issues
• Recent inspection records
• Limited owner information

Lookups are based on records maintained by the DOV.

The DOV (Division of Vehicles) provides vehicle records and title information on its website, while Kansas Title & Registration Services offers detailed reports, including branded titles and accident records.

What Information is Exempt from the Kansas Open Records Act?

Most government documents are considered public as per KORA (Kansas Open Records Act) and can be requested by individuals. However, the law includes specific exceptions where access may be restricted, such as:

• Medical treatment records
• Records protected by attorney-client privilege
• Records restricted by rules of evidence
• Personal information compiled for Census purposes
• Drafts, notes, and preliminary versions

When seeking the above exempt information, individuals can submit a formal request to the relevant government agency, which will review the request and determine if any part of the record can be released or if exceptions apply. The agency may provide redacted versions to allow access to non-sensitive information.

Other Public Records in Kansas

Other types of public records in Kansas include:

• Employment Records: Records related to unemployment benefits, workers' compensation, and wage claims. The Kansas Department of Labor maintains this.
• Parole and Probation Records: The KDOC (Kansas Department of Corrections) oversees records related to parole and probation, including status reports and conditions.
• Kansas Election Records: The Election Division of the Secretary of State maintains information on voter registration and election results.
• Environmental Reports: These reports include data on various environmental factors such as air and water quality, hazardous waste management, and environmental impact assessments. The KDHE (Kansas Department of Health & Environment) oversees these records.

Frequently Asked Questions

Individuals can explore the following resources for additional insights into Kansas public records:

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