Michigan PUBLIC RECORDS SEARCH

Michigan State Public Records Search Online

Michigan has over 10 million residents, 83 counties, and over 1,800 cities, towns, and villages. Its public records system is vast and essential for organizing its public transactions.

Moreover, state officials strictly adhere to the proper governance of these public records based on state and federal laws. These same laws ensure that the public can access the records for various purposes.

As the state's population grows, the demand for easy access to public records has increased. This demand prompted the government to provide platforms and searchable databases.

Understanding how to navigate Michigan's public records system is crucial for residents, businesses, and legal professionals seeking information across numerous jurisdictions.

What Records are Public in Michigan?

Public records are generated as state officials perform their mandates. They are accessible to the public unless specifically exempted by law.

Public records often include:

• Certificates of birth, marriage, death, and divorce
• Tax and property records
• Criminal records
• Court records
• Environmental reports
• Traffic or driving records

What is Considered Public Information in Michigan?

Michigan public information refers to the various details found on records. It may include:

• Personal information such as names and birth dates
• Criminal information, such as crimes committed and the offender's name
• Inmate details such as incarceration facilities and sentence served
• Bankruptcy data such as creditor's name and settlements made
• Divorce cases such as case docket number and divorce settlements

While public information can be acquired upon request, sensitive details are not disclosed.

Michigan Public Records Laws

Michigan's public records laws provide a legal framework for accessing government-held information. The laws ensure transparency and accountability by granting the public the right to view and obtain records maintained by state and local agencies.

What is the Michigan Compiled Law on Public Records?

The equivalent public records law in Michigan is the Michigan Compiled Laws (MCL) Act 442 of 1976, the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), which is similarly titled as that of the federal act.

This act applies to all state-level agencies and grants public access to most records created and retained by government agencies. It is designed to ensure public transparency in government operations.

What is the FOIA in Michigan?

The FOIA (Freedom of Information Act) in Michigan mandates that federal agencies provide access to public records. The act defines public records as any writing prepared, owned, used, or retained by a public body to perform an official function.

This broad definition includes various forms of documentation, such as handwritten notes, typed documents, and digital recordings. However, the act outlines specific exemptions.

Who Can Access Public Records in Michigan?

Any person, organization, or governmental entity is entitled to access public records. However, individuals incarcerated in federal, state, or local correctional facilities are excluded from this right.

Agencies may require requesters to provide valid identification to confirm their eligibility to access records. Standardized forms used by agencies for open records requests typically include a section where requesters must affirm their eligibility under the law.

Michigan Public Records Search

Public record searches in Michigan can be completed online or offline and are straightforward.

How To Find Michigan Public Records Online

Various state-run online databases and government websites offer access to a wide range of records. These databases are regularly updated and checked for inaccuracies. Moreover, non-compliance with the public records law subjects government officials to administrative proceedings. Thus, the public is guaranteed accurate records.

Other options include third-party aggregators. Although they're convenient and usually reliable, they may not contain updated information. Like most organizations, these sites still need to adhere to privacy laws, which sometimes are breached no matter how strict the laws are.

Here's how individuals can find the public records they need online:

• Identify the information needed and perform a simple browser search with the county of residence.
• Use the results of the search to check the appropriate record custodian.
• Find the records search, records portal, or something similar.
• Fill out the details, usually last name, dates related to the transaction looking for, or a specific identifying number.
• Submit the request and pay the associated fees.
• Wait for the results and follow up after ten days if no copies are received for an extensive records request search.

How To Find Michigan Public Records Offline

Accessing Michigan public records offline involves traditional methods such as in-person visits to government offices, submitting requests by mail or fax, or contacting the office by phone.

Below is a step-by-step guide to finding these records:

• Identify the correct agency.
• Gather sufficient information, such as names, dates, and specific locations related to the record.
• Visit the agency or submit a request through the accepted offline methods.
• Pay the necessary fees using the accepted payment channels.

Types of Public Records in Michigan

Here is an overview of the various types of public records accessible in Michigan:

State of Michigan Public Court Records

Michigan public court records detail judicial proceedings. These records may include briefs, case types, dockets, sworn statements, orders, judgments, and more.

Specific court rules may restrict the acquisition of certain documents, such as those involving minors or confidential settlements.

Individuals can search court cases online or by visiting specific courthouses. In Michigan, the different courts are trial courts, appellate courts, and the Supreme Court. The trial court includes the probate, district, and circuit courts. Each court handles different cases depending on the crime or offenses committed.

Michigan Public Bankruptcy Records

Michigan public bankruptcy records contain information on bankruptcy cases filed within the state. These records are maintained by federal courts and include petitions, schedules, statements of financial affairs, and discharge orders.

Access to these records is governed by federal laws and is generally available to the public, except where restricted by court order or privacy regulations.

Individuals can obtain bankruptcy records through the Public Access to Court Electronic Records (PACER) system. They can search for cases by debtor name, case number, or court district. PACER provides an efficient way to download specific pages or entire documents for a fee, typically $0.30 per page, with a maximum charge of $3 per document.

Another method of acquiring bankruptcy records is the automated Voice Case Information System (VCIS). Alternatively, individuals can visit the courthouse in person to request records, where fees may apply for obtaining certified copies or other documents.

Visiting the courthouse can also be useful when electronic access is limited or when seeking additional guidance on the record retrieval process.

In Michigan, bankruptcy clerks have offices at the following locations:

• U.S. Bankruptcy Court of the Eastern District of Michigan (Bay City, Detroit, and Flint)
• U.S. Bankruptcy Court of the Western District of Michigan (Grand Rapids and Marquette)

County Court Records in Michigan

Accessing county court records in Michigan can vary depending on the specific county, as each may have its procedures and systems for managing and providing access to records. Below is a partial list of the counties in Michigan with their county clerk contact numbers

• Wayne County: (313) 967-6938
• Oakland County: (248) 858-1000
• Macomb County: (586) 469-5100
• Kent County: (616) 632-7640
• Genesee County: (810) 257-3220

Each county may offer additional resources, including online databases, for accessing court records. Some have virtual courtrooms, and individuals can search for them through an online directory.

Michigan Criminal Record s

Michigan maintains a criminal records system that documents various aspects of an individual's interactions with law enforcement and the justice system.

These records serve multiple purposes, from aiding law enforcement in investigations to providing background information for employers and landlords.

Here's a breakdown of what these records typically include:

• Mugshots
• Arrest details
• Criminal charges
• Court proceedings
• Sentencing information.
• Personal information such as name and date of birth

The Michigan State Police (MSP) manages all criminal records except local misdemeanors and juvenile records. It offers public access through the Internet Criminal History Access Tool (ICHAT), a name-based search suitable for background checks.

Interested users and agencies can register using this tool by following the specified procedures and submitting the requirements.

Michigan Public Arrest Records

Michigan public arrest records contain detailed information about arrests made within the state. These records document law enforcement activities and are critical in maintaining public safety. Common information included in these records consists of:

• Arrest details: date and time of arrest, location of arrest, reason for arrest
• Arrested person's information: full name, birth date, address, mugshot
• Charges: specific criminal charges filed, related case numbers
• Booking details: facility where the person was detained, bail information

Law enforcement agencies such as MSP, the local police department, and the sheriff's office are repositories of arrest records.

Accepted methods for record access include online databases, in-person, mail, email, or phone requests. The method of obtaining these records depends on the procedures that the records custodian has in place. For example, the Kent County Sheriff's Office only accepts appointments for records requests.

Michigan Warrant Records

In Michigan, executed warrants are generally considered public records. However, in certain cases where releasing a warrant could compromise an ongoing investigation or threaten public safety, the disclosure of such records may be restricted.

A warrant in Michigan is an official document that authorizes a specific action, typically related to law enforcement. Warrants are issued based on probable cause and signed by a judge or magistrate. Common types of warrants in Michigan include:

• Search warrants: Issued to search and seize property relevant to an investigation.
• Arrest warrants: Issued to apprehend and detain a person suspected of criminal activity.
• Bench warrants: Issued for failures to appear in court, often related to traffic violations or civil matters.
• Tax warrants: Issued to collect overdue taxes, sometimes resulting in the seizure of property.
• Probation violation warrants: Issued to apprehend an individual who violated probation requirements.

Requesters can check outstanding warrants through the county clerks and local police departments. The state has a trial court directory, and they can use this tool to hasten the process of online searching. This directory is a repository of contacts for all trial courts.

An alternative option is to visit the nearest county clerk, as some offices don't have online databases.

Michigan Vital Records

Michigan vital records include documents related to significant life events such as births, deaths, marriages, and divorces.

Vital records can be certified, verified, or authenticated. Authenticated copies are used for foreign government requirements.

Only eligible persons can get certified copies. They include parents, legal guardians, next of kin, or representatives, as evidenced by a court order.

Anyone can request verified copies by providing the registrants' names. Verified copies don't contain personal information but include a phrase verifying the existence of the record based on the information provided.

Copies of vital records can be requested from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) or county clerks. Requesters can use the trial court directory to find a specific county clerk's address.

To obtain any of the vital records, requesters can choose any of the following accepted methods:

• By mail
• Drop-off
• Online
• By phone
• Personal visits
• Will-call pick-up

Personal visits require a schedule of appointments, while phone, will-call, and online requests are through an accredited provider. Application forms for drop-off, personal visits, and mail may vary depending on the types of vital records requested.

All mail requests for vital records can be sent or dropped off at the address below:

The basic non-refundable fee for a vital records search is $34, and an additional $12 is charged for expedited requests. The associated MI vital record fees and processing time may vary depending on the type of copies requested.

Michigan Public Birth Records

Michigan birth records provide essential information about births in the state. They may include the following information:

• Newborn's full name
• Date and place of birth
• Time of birth
• Parents' names
• Occupation of parents

Birth records can be used as proof of identity and citizenship when obtaining government identifications or licenses.

Birth records over 100 years old are generally accessible to the public. Anyone interested in historical or genealogical research can request them.

However, access to more recent birth records is typically restricted to the individual named on the record, immediate family members, legal representatives, or individuals with a court order.

Offline methods include mail, drop-off, phone, and personal visits to the MDHHS (Michigan Department of Health and Human Services) Vital Records. On the other hand, individuals can make requests through an accredited online provider or by email.

Birth records beginning in 1867 can be requested at MDHHS. Individuals can request heirloom birth certificates and choose five designs. Note that although the state issued them, these certificates are not legal proofs of birth.

Michigan Public Death Records

In Michigan, the public can obtain death records, with certain exceptions, such as court order restrictions. A death certificate is an official document that provides details about an individual's death, including the date, place, and cause of death.

Unrestricted access is available for individuals who requested death records over 100 years ago.

Access to death records for deaths less than 100 years old may be restricted. In such cases, only immediate family members, legal representatives, or individuals with approved court orders can request the records.

Individuals can request death records from 1867 to the present. The request methods are the same for all vital records.

Michigan Public Marriage Records

Michigan public marriage records contain information about marriages and have been recorded since 1867. Confidential marriages conducted in a probate court are only obtainable by married couples. Unless marriages are 100 years old, they are restricted to eligible persons such as couples and legal representatives.

A marriage certificate often includes the following details:

• Full names of the bride and groom.
• Date of marriage
• Place of marriage
• Ages and birthplaces of both the and groom at the time of marriage
• The addresses of both parties at the time of marriage
• Name and official title of the person who performed the marriage ceremony
• Names and residences of at least two witnesses
• Date of record

Marriage certificates are available at MDHHS (Michigan Department of Health and Human Services) and county clerks upon request using the accepted record access methods.

Michigan Public Divorce Records

Divorce records are accessible to the general public, except for certain sensitive information such as divorce settlements and child support stipulations. These exclusions protect the individuals' privacy and comply with legal restrictions.

Below are the details a divorce record contains:

• Full names of both spouses involved in the divorce
• Finalization date of divorce
• The county and court where the divorce was granted
• Official case number of the divorce proceeding
• Basic terms and conditions of the divorce, excluding sensitive details

Divorce records have been maintained since 1897 and can be searched through the judiciary case search tool.

Michigan Property Records

Property records in Michigan aggregate details on ownership, mortgages, and financial arrangements related to land and properties within the state. These records are primarily maintained by the Register of Deeds office in the county where the property is located.

These records often include:

• Deeds or transfer of ownership
• Mortgage agreement between lender and borrower
• Foreclosure notices
• Legal claims due to unpaid loans or mortgages
• Property taxes

Local assessors and the Michigan Department of Treasury manage additional property information at the state level. These records typically include a property's legal description, parcel number, owner's name, assessment value, taxes due, and any applicable liens.

To search MI property records, individuals should identify the county or location of the property. They then need to contact the local register of deeds to inquire about inspecting these records.

Some counties offer online portals for property record searches, while others may require in-person or mail requests. For example, Oakland County offers an online property records search portal.

Michigan property records are also available through third-party aggregate websites. However, the information on these sites may vary and is not guaranteed to be as complete as official government sources.

Michigan Inmate Records

Inmate records are generated in Michigan when an individual is convicted of a crime and sentenced to a correctional facility. The administrative staff of the correctional facility where the individual is confined maintains these records.

Inmate records contain detailed information about the individual's incarceration, including personal details, the crime committed, and the status of their confinement.

They are considered public information, though some restrictions may apply depending on the nature of the offense and the jurisdiction. A standard inmate record generally includes:

• Inmate's name
• Inmate's state identification number (SID)
• Personal details
• Admission date
• Location
• Confinement status
• Court name
• Offense-related information
• Degree of offense court name
• Sentence status and type
• Custody classification

The easiest method to access inmate records is through third-party websites that aggregate inmate information from various jurisdictions. These sites typically allow users to search for inmate records without geographical limitations. However, the information may vary in accuracy compared to official government sources.

Individuals can also search online through the Offender Tracking Information System (OTIS), which is managed by the Michigan Department of Corrections (MDOC), to find inmate records of state prisons using official channels.

OTIS keeps records of current inmates and those released from state prison for up to three years. Records beyond three years after release are available on ICHAT (Internet Criminal History Access Tool).

OTIS does not maintain records of inmates sentenced to jail time or county prisons. It also does not have information on arrested offenders without a sentence yet.

Many facilities maintain digital copies of inmate records that can be accessed for free by searching the inmate's name, age, or ID number. A nominal service fee may be required for more detailed records or physical copies.

Michigan Traffic Records

Michigan traffic records are comprehensive documents on an individual's driving history within the state. These records include a wide range of information:

• Traffic violations
• Convictions
• Civil infractions
• Sentences
• License suspensions or revocations
• Driving points accumulated

Various government entities are responsible for generating and maintaining these records, with the Michigan Department of State being the primary custodian. Drivers can request their traffic records online, by mail, and through office visits.

For mail submission, individuals can use the address below by sending a request application form and payment in check or money order:

In addition to the MCL (Michigan Compiled Laws) and FOIA (Freedom of Information Act), the Driver Privacy Protection Act (DPPA) regulates the release of records by obtaining express consent from the driver.

License Plate Lookup in Michigan

A license plate lookup in Michigan can be performed through the Department of State online databases. This process allows individuals to obtain specific information related to a vehicle by using its license plate number.

A license plate lookup can reveal a range of details about a vehicle, including the make, model, year, and owner information. While the specifics can vary depending on the database or service used, these details are often helpful for verifying a vehicle's registration, investigating incidents, or conducting background checks.

However, online lookup is limited to abandoned vehicle searches, new applications, or checking status for personal reasons. If individuals want to obtain more information about a vehicle, they may need to use the vehicle information number (VIN) to check for liens or history subject to DPPA provisions.

What Information is Exempt from the Public Records Act in Michigan?

Certain types of records are exempt from public disclosure. MCL (Michigan Compiled Laws) Section 15.243 outlines the specific records and information that are not required to be released to the public. These exemptions protect sensitive information and maintain the integrity of certain legal and administrative processes.

Below is a list of information types and records that are exempt from public access under Michigan law:

• Personal information
• Law enforcement investigation records
• Commercial and financial information
• Records or information that are subject to attorney-client privilege
• Any medical, counseling, or psychological facts or evaluations concerning an individual
• Information under doctor/physician-client privilege
• Real property appraisals during negotiations
• Test questions, answers, scoring keys, and other examination instruments or data used for licensing, employment, or academic purposes

Other Public Records in Michigan

Here are other public records in Michigan that may be accessible to interested individuals:

• Public Sex Offender Registry: The registry provides all necessary information about the offender, from name to distinguishing marks. Although the public can view the offender's details, individuals cannot use it to harass an offender.
• Voter Information: Anyone can request this information from the Bureau of Elections. However, the file is saved on a USB flash drive and is not emailed electronically. Interested individuals who request it should pick up the results in the Lansing office.
• Business Records: The public is entitled to know if they're dealing with legitimate businesses. The Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs (LARA) offers a search tool for a business entity.
• Environmental Reports: The state, under the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), publishes environmental reports, which are available online. Reports are posted for three years. If requesters need specific reports beyond this period, they may need to submit an email request to the EGLE's assistance center.
• Educational Agency Data: Under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Michigan's Department of Education is required to report annual performance and special education indicators to the public.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to common questions about accessing public records in Michigan:

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