What Are the Key Differences Between Aggravated Robbery and Aggravated Burglary?
Table of Contents
- Virginia State Public Records Search Online
- What Records are Public in Virginia?
- Virginia Public Records Laws
- Virginia Public Records Search
- Types of Public Records in Virginia
- What Information is Exempt from the Public Records Act in Virginia?
- Other Public Records in Virginia
- Frequently Asked Questions
Virginia State Public Records Search Online
In Virginia, public records are accessible under the Virginia Public Records Act and the Virginia Freedom of Information Act (VA FOIA).
Letting the public retrieve records allows citizens to stay informed about governmental decisions and actions, building trust and civic engagement.
Furthermore, public records can be used for various purposes, such as conducting background checks, researching property histories, and verifying professional licenses. For businesses, these documents provide valuable insights into market trends, competitor activities, and potential investment opportunities.
What Records are Public in Virginia?
Public records in Virginia are mostly government documents that are generally accessible to citizens. However, certain records are exempt from public disclosure to protect sensitive information and ensure privacy and confidentiality in specific situations.
What is Considered Public Information in Virginia?
In Virginia, public information is any writing or recording, regardless of format, prepared, owned, or held by a public body or its representatives during public business.
They include handwritten notes, typewritten documents, electronic files, audio or video recordings, photographs, and online content. Even drafts and preliminary versions of documents fall under this definition.
The following are examples of public documents in Virginia:
- Vital records
- Criminal records
- Property records
- Court records
- Land records
- Driving records
Virginia Public Records Laws
The guidelines that regulate Virginia public records are outlined in the state's Freedom of Information Act and the Virginia Public Records Act.
What is the Virginia Public Records Act?
The Virginia Public Records Act establishes a unified set of laws for managing and preserving public records. It applies to all public officers and employees mandated to promote consistent records management and preservation procedures.
Under this law, the state has vested the Library of Virginia with the archival and records management function. It acts as the official custodian and trustee for all public records transferred from any agency, regardless of format.
The Library of Virginia oversees the management and retention of electronic archival records and may collaborate with third-party entities for related services.
This collaboration involves contracting with external organizations to provide services related to storing, managing, and preserving these records.
What is the FOIA in Virginia?
The Virginia Freedom of Information Act (VA FOIA) is a law that promotes government transparency by granting citizens and media representatives access to public records and meetings. It applies to all state and local government bodies, defining public records as documents and recordings related to public business.
The act outlines the right to inspect and copy these records, with some exemptions for sensitive information. Public bodies must respond to requests within five working days and may charge reasonable fees.
Who Can Access Public Records in Virginia?
The VA FOIA (Virginia Freedom of Information Act) grants access to public records for specific groups within the Commonwealth. These include Virginia residents, as well as journalists from newspapers, magazines, radio stations, and television networks that operate within or broadcast to the state.
However, the law restricts access for individuals currently serving time in correctional facilities at any level - local, state, or federal.
Virginia Public Records Search
Virginia residents can obtain public records by contacting the appropriate public agency under the VA FOIA (Virginia Freedom of Information Act). The process varies depending on the custodian agency but generally follows these steps:
First, individuals must identify the requirements for obtaining their desired public record by contacting the document's custodian agency. They then create and send a request for the Virginia public records they seek.
The state requires record seekers to present identification and proof of residency. Some records involve processing or copying fees. Record custodians may offer request forms to simplify the process, though this is not always necessary.
How To Find Virginia Public Records Online
Virginia provides several online platforms for accessing public records. These platforms vary based on the type of record sought:
- Case Information: The Virginia Judicial System offers a searchable database for case information. Users can find records from the Court of Appeals, Supreme Court, Circuit Courts, Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Courts, and General District Courts by entering a case number, name, or hearing date. Public access terminals are also available in various clerks' offices and courthouses.
- Land Records: Citizens can access land records through the Secure Remote Access (SRA) system. Before viewing circuit court land records, they must register with the local circuit court clerk.
- Vital Records: The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) offers an online ordering system for vital records, including birth, death, marriage, and divorce certificates.
- Marriage Records: Researchers use the Library of Virginia Marriage Records Card Index Search to look up marriage records filtered by county, bride or groom names, and other criteria.
- Driving Records: The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (VA DMV) maintains an online portal for driving records. This system allows users to view information about suspensions and traffic violations.
Many local governments also provide access to public documents, such as court and property records, through their websites.
How to Find Virginia Public Records Offline
Virginia residents can access public records by submitting FOIA (Freedom of Information Act) requests to relevant public bodies in writing or verbally. Local government offices such as county clerks, circuit courts, and health departments also accept in-person visits for record requests.
Each agency uses different filters to search its databases, so it is important to call ahead to confirm the records' availability and any specific requirements.
Additionally, public libraries often maintain archives of local newspapers and historical documents. The Library of Virginia houses an extensive collection of public records, which provides another valuable resource for offline access.
In the case of the Virginia State Police (VSP), which issues criminal history checks offline, interested persons can download and complete the SP 167 Form found on the website and mail it to P.O. Box 27472, Richmond, VA 23261.
Alternatively, one can request records personally at the Administrative Headquarters, 7700 Midlothian Turnpike, North Chesterfield, VA 23235. The department can be reached at (804) 674-2131 or Background_Checks@vsp.virginia.gov.
Custodians must respond to record requests within five working days of receipt. Failing to do so is a denial and breaks the VA FOIA rules.
Types of Public Records in Virginia
The Virginia government obtains public records through various means, depending on the record type and the agency responsible for maintaining it. Here is an overview of the major types of public records accessible in the state:
State of Virginia Public Court Records
Virginia's open court records, backed by the VA FOIA (Virginia Freedom of Information Act) and Virginia Public Records Act, build public trust in the legal system. They show the fair and impartial operation of courts, hold the judiciary and public officials accountable, and reassure citizens that justice is being served.
Virginia court records typically include case filings, pleadings, docket details, motions, decisions, orders, evidence, transcripts, briefs, judgments, summons, and complaints.
Virginia Public Bankruptcy Records
Bankruptcy records are official documents related to bankruptcy filings and proceedings. These records are managed through the Public Access to Court Electronic Records (PACER) service, which is provided by the federal court system. By creating an account on PACER, users can search for and access case information from appellate, district, and bankruptcy courts online.
Additionally, the Voice Case Information System (VCIS) offers free basic bankruptcy case information via telephone at 1-866-222-8029. VCIS employs an automated voice system that reads limited bankruptcy case details from a national database.
One can also visit local bankruptcy courts in Virginia to access records in person.
County Court Records in Virginia
Access to county-level court records in Virginia differs from one county to another. Select circuit courts offer online platforms where users can search civil and criminal cases by locality, name, case number, or hearing date.
For in-person access, individuals can visit the nearest circuit court clerk's office. These offices typically provide public access terminals for viewing electronic records.
Circuit court clerks maintain public records, including non-confidential court records in individual case files. People can make requests in writing or in person, with some counties having specific forms or procedures.
The following are the contact numbers for the circuit courts in the five most populous counties in Virginia:
- Fairfax: (703) 691-7320
- Prince William: (703) 792-6015
- Virginia Beach: (757) 385-4181
- Loudoun: (703) 777-0270
- Chesterfield: (804) 748-1241
Virginia Criminal Records
The Commonwealth of Virginia maintains criminal records as official documentation of individuals' interactions with the criminal justice system. Said records are used for law enforcement operations, judicial proceedings, and background checks.
These comprehensive files, often colloquially called "rap sheets", encompass a range of data. Besides the subject's personal information, the criminal records typically include the following information:
- Mugshot
- Arrest information
- Conviction histories
The following are the common types of crimes reflected in the records:
- Felonies
- Misdemeanors
- Driving violations
- Sexual offenses
The VSP (Virginia State Police) serves as the primary custodian and administrator of these records at the state level. This agency is responsible for granting official permissions to conduct comprehensive criminal background checks across Virginia.
For individuals seeking to obtain criminal record information, the standard procedure typically involves submitting by mail the completed and notarized SP-167 request found on the VSP website. For employers, a web form called SP-230 is needed for criminal history records checks in Virginia.
Virginia Public Arrest Records
Virginia's public arrest records provide detailed documentation of law enforcement interactions within the Commonwealth. These records reflect the state's approach to criminal justice while balancing public safety and privacy concerns.
The state's public arrest records usually contain the following information:
- Subject's personal information
- Physical characteristics
- Mugshot and fingerprints
- Arrest information
- Charges
- Arresting officer
- Detention facility
Arrest records created by local law enforcement authorities can be accessed by various parties, including:
- The subject of the record
- Employers
- Insurance companies
- Legal representatives
- Victims and witnesses
- Government agencies
- Bail bondsmen
- Interested third parties
However, certain arrest records or information may be withheld from public disclosure due to federal and state laws.
To obtain Virginia public arrest records, individuals can either use the Virginia Judicial System's website to search for arrest records by name or case number or contact local law enforcement agencies that create and retain these records once a person is arrested, regardless of the alleged offense.
Virginia Vital Records
Public access to vital records in Virginia supports public health, verifies individual identities, aids genealogical research, facilitates legal matters, and allows access to government services.
Virginia's vital records typically include birth, death, marriage, and divorce records. Birth records become public information 100 years after the event date. Meanwhile, death, marriage, and divorce records become public 25 years after the event date. Before these periods elapse, only immediate family members or legal guardians with valid identification can access these records.
To obtain official copies of vital records in Virginia, individuals can either visit the VDH (Virginia Department of Health) Vital Records website to request copies online or visit the Office of Vital Records at 2001 Maywill St., Suite 101, Richmond, VA 23230, during regular office hours. Records can also be requested at any Vital Record Walk-In Locations.
Virginia Public Birth Records
Virginia strictly controls access to birth records. The state only allows immediate family members, especially for documents under 75 years old, to view these records. This policy protects individual privacy and security and prevents identity theft, fraud, and unauthorized use of personal information.
A typical Virginia birth record contains:
- The individual's full name given at birth
- The exact date and location of birth
- Full names of both parents, including the mother's maiden name
- Additional details such as hospital name, birth weight, and attending physician
For birth records 75 years or older that are not sealed by court order, the public can view or obtain replacement certificates.
To acquire a replacement birth certificate, individuals must:
- Complete the Virginia Birth Certificate Application form
- Provide a legible photocopy of their identification
- Include a $12 check or money order per copy, payable to the State Health Department
Applicants can mail these items to:
Virginia Department of Health
Office of Vital Records
P.O. Box 1000
Richmond, VA 23218-1000
Alternatively, one may visit the VDH (Virginia Department of Health) Vital Records website to submit an online application and pay the required fees electronically. The VDH also accepts walk-in services to its main office or through any Vital Record Walk-In Locations.
Virginia Public Death Records
The Commonwealth of Virginia maintains official death records to document mortality events within its borders. These records serve as crucial legal evidence for various purposes, including estate settlements, insurance claims, and retirement benefit processing.
This document usually contains the following information:
- Date of death
- Location of death
- Cause of death
- Personal information about the deceased
Virginia law stipulates that death records become publicly accessible 25 years after the recorded event. Before this period elapses, only the individuals below may access these records:
- Immediate family members
- Legal representatives, such as attorneys
- Individuals with court-ordered authorization
To obtain a death record copy, interested parties must follow these steps:
- Fill out the Virginia Death Certificate Application form
- Submit a clear photocopy of their identification
- Enclose a $12 payment per copy (check or money order) payable to the State Health Department
Applicants should send these materials to the similar VDH (Virginia Department of Health) mailing address above.
For those preferring a digital approach, VDH offers an online application process through its Vital Records website. The VDH also offers walk-in services at its main office and at any Vital Records Walk-In Location.
Virginia Public Marriage Records
Disclosing marriage records to the public helps prevent fraudulent activities and ensures that all marriages are appropriately documented and recognized by the state.
This document typically holds the following data:
- Full names of both spouses
- Date and location of the marriage ceremony
- Personal details of both parties
- Officiant's name
- Witnesses' names
- Marriage license number
Individuals seeking access to public marriage records in Virginia have several options:
- In-person requests: Interested parties can visit the local county clerk's office where the marriage license was issued to request a certified copy. They must present valid identification and pay the required fees. In addition to the clerk's office, one can drop by VDH (Virginia Department of Health), submit the completed Application for Certification of a Marriage and/or Divorce Record (VS6MD), and pay the applicable fees.
- Mail requests: One can send a written request to the county clerk's office where the marriage license was issued. The request should include the couple's names, marriage dates, a copy of the requester's ID, and a check or money order for the applicable fee. In addition, one can send a request to the Office of Vital Records of the VDH by mail using the form VS6MD.
- Online access: The VDH Vital Records website provides marriage license indexes for unions that have occurred in Virginia since 1936. Users can complete the application form online and pay the $12 fee for these records.
Virginia Public Divorce Records
Virginia's public divorce records contain essential information about marital dissolutions within the Commonwealth. However, for the security of the concerned parties, these documents are only made available to the public 25 years after the event.
The public divorce records typically include the following:
- Full names of both divorcing parties
- The exact date of divorce finalization
- The location where the divorce was granted
- Unique case number for identification
- Details about the court overseeing the divorce proceedings
To protect an individual's privacy, the following sensitive information are not disclosed:
- Financial data related to asset division and alimony
- Child support arrangements and custody agreements
The Commonwealth of Virginia maintains divorce records in two primary locations:
- Circuit court clerk's offices in the counties where divorces were finalized (for records less than 25 years old)
- Office of Vital Records of the VDH (Virginia Department of Health) (for all divorce records)
All requests require valid identification and payment of applicable fees. Individuals seeking certified copies of divorce records have several options:
- In-person requests at the relevant circuit court clerk's office and the VDH
- Mail requests to the circuit court clerk's office or through VDH's Office of Vital Records using VS6MD.
- Online requests through county-specific official websites and VDH's Vital Records website
To verify a divorce's finalization, interested parties can contact the clerk of the court where the divorce was filed or use online portals provided by some counties to check the case status.
Virginia Property Records
The Virginia Public Records Act grants public access to most property records in the Commonwealth. This legislation allows individuals to request, inspect, and copy property records without declaring their intentions.
Virginia property records typically encompass the following:
- Property deeds: These documents trace the ownership history of a property.
- Titles: Legal papers establishing property ownership.
- Survey maps: Illustrations depicting property boundaries and dimensions.
- Tax Records: Details on property taxes, assessments, and valuations.
- Building sketches: Diagrams showing the dimensions and layout of property structures.
- Mortgage records: Information about mortgages or liens on the property.
- Permits and inspections: Documentation of building permits and inspection reports.
- Property value: Data on market value and recent sales history.
Individuals seeking Virginia property records have several options:
- In-person requests: Interested parties can visit their local county assessor's office to request property records directly. The addresses for these offices can be found on their respective websites, such as Culpeper County.
- Online databases: Some counties, such as Henry County, provide searchable online databases for convenient access to property records.
- Written Requests: Individuals can send written requests to the county assessor's office, including specific property details and contact information. However, before sending the request, one must first call the office to verify the document's availability and the applicable fees.
Virginia Inmate Records
Virginia law generally allows public access to inmate records. This policy helps people check inmate status, perform background searches, and obtain information for legal and personal reasons.
Virginia inmate records usually contain:
- Personal details
- Inmate ID
- Mugshots
- Criminal history
- Sentence information
- Facility information
- Custody status
The Virginia Department of Corrections (VADOC) offers an online Inmate Locator tool. This resource lets users find an inmate's location and release date for individuals in VADOC custody.
Several third-party databases also provide access to inmate records. These platforms allow searches using names, inmate IDs, or other details.
To look up inmate records, users typically need:
- Inmate's name
- Inmate ID
- State agency number (SID)
- Inmate's gender
Virginia Traffic Records
A Virginia traffic or driving record is an official document that details an individual's driving history, including citations, traffic violations, and convictions within the state.
Various government agencies in Virginia maintain these public driving records, and the VA DMV (Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles) provides access to them following the state's public record laws.
License Plate Lookup in Virginia
Looking up license plates in Virginia involves accessing public records to obtain information about vehicle ownership, registration details, and any associated legal matters. The VA DMV (Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles) typically handles this matter.
The state offers several methods for conducting license plate lookups:
- Through VA DMV: Individuals can request information by submitting the Information Request Form (CRD93) and paying a fee at the nearest VA DMV customer service center. The office also accepts submissions online or by mail.
- Third-Party Services: Various websites provide quick license plate lookup services. These platforms often offer vehicle history, service records, recall information, and accident reports. However, they do not give the identity of the person or vehicle registered to a license plate.
- Private Investigators: While more costly, private investigators have access to extensive databases and networks that can yield detailed information.
A Virginia license plate lookup typically reveals the following information about the vehicle:
- Vehicle details such as the make, model, year, engine type, transmission, manufacturer, and other specifications
- Information on mileage, maintenance, accidents, repossessions, and theft reports
- Data about previous owners, when available
- The vehicle's current estimated worth
- Any recalls or defects associated with the vehicle
- Confirmation of titling and any liens against the vehicle
What Information is Exempt from the Public Records Act in Virginia?
The Virginia Public Records Act identifies specific categories of records that remain exempt from public disclosure to protect privacy, confidentiality, and sensitive information:
- Confidential Records: These records contain information that the law designates as confidential. The act prohibits their release to safeguard sensitive data, protect individual privacy, or maintain the integrity of ongoing investigations.
- Sealed Records: Courts order certain records sealed to protect sensitive information or the interests of involved parties. The act respects these court orders and does not permit access to sealed records, preserving the judicial system's authority.
- Medical and Educational Records: Even when archived, these records stay confidential. This exemption protects personal health information and academic data, respecting individuals' rights to privacy in their medical and educational histories.
- Non-Public Records: Personal correspondence, diaries, journals, and notes not used or circulated for public business fall outside the definition of public records. This exemption recognizes the distinction between private documents and those created during official duties.
Other Public Records in Virginia
Virginia offers several additional public records beyond the major categories:
- Public Contracts and Bids: The state makes public contracts and bids available, which detail agreements and solicitations for goods, services, and construction by government entities. The Virginia Public Procurement Act governs these documents.
- Environmental and Health Reports: These documents provide information on the state's ecological conditions and public health status. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) collaborates with the VDH (Virginia Department of Health) to produce these reports.
- Sex Offender and Crimes Against Minors Registry: This registry, established under Title 9.1, Chapter 9 of the Code of Virginia, is a publicly accessible database maintained by the VSP (Virginia State Police). It contains information about individuals convicted of sex offenses and certain crimes against minors in the state.
- Warrant Records: These records, issued by a court, authorize law enforcement to take specific actions, such as arresting an individual or searching a property. It typically includes details about the person involved, the nature of the offense, and the conditions of the warrant.
- Budgets and Financial Reports: The Department of Accounts (DOA) manages budgets and financial reports. These documents offer comprehensive information on Virginia's economic activities, including revenue, expenditures, and overall fiscal health.
- Maps and Geographic Information System (GIS) Data: These resources offer detailed spatial information on various aspects of the state, such as land use, transportation networks, and environmental features. The Virginia Geographic Information Network (VGIN) maintains maps and GIS data.
Frequently Asked Questions
Individuals can explore the following resources for more information on Virginia public records:
Can I Find Free Public Records in Virginia Using Third-Party Sites?
Free public records in Virginia can be accessed through third-party websites, though availability and comprehensiveness may vary. These sites often provide basic information such as criminal records, court records, or property details.
However, they may not offer the most up-to-date or complete data compared to official government sources. Additionally, while some records are free, others might require a fee for full access. Users should verify the accuracy of the information and consider using official state resources for detailed records.
How To Find out if Someone Has a Warrant Online for Free in Virginia?
To check for warrants in Virginia, one can utilize several free online resources. The Virginia Judicial System offers a case record search tool on its website, allowing individuals to find outstanding warrants related to specific cases.
Additionally, some county police departments and sheriff's offices maintain public databases of active warrants where individuals can find warrant information at no cost.
For instance, Roanoke County provides an up-to-date list on its website, while Virginia Beach offers an online search tool.
What Happens if I Am Refused a Public Records Request?
If a public body denies a records request, the requester should first attempt to resolve the issue directly with that entity. The public body may explain or clarify the reasons for the denial.
In cases where the denial stems from an exemption, the requester can ask the public body to release non-exempt portions of the record. This involves requesting that the public body remove or redact the exempt sections while providing access to the remaining information.
If these initial steps fail to resolve the issue, the requester may need to explore further options, such as filing an appeal or seeking legal advice.
How Much Do Public Records Cost in Virginia?
Virginia law allows public bodies to charge reasonable fees for public records requests under the VA FOIA (Virginia Freedom of Information Act). These fees must not exceed the actual costs incurred in accessing, duplicating, supplying, or searching for the requested documents.
However, fees vary among different agencies. Some clerks of court charge $1 for the first two pages, with an additional $0.50 for each subsequent page. On the other hand, the VDH (Virginia Department of Health) charges a flat rate of $12 for each requested copy.
