District Of Columbia Public Records Search

What Records Are Public In District Of Columbia?

In the District of Columbia, the public records law is governed by the District of Columbia Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) of 1974, which is codified under D.C. Official Code § 2-531 et seq. Under the D.C. FOIA, all records held by the District government are presumed to be public, except for those records or portions thereof that fall under any of the nine exemptions provided by the Act. The following are some of the records that are considered public: 1. Administrative records: These are records of administrative agencies and usually include rules, regulations, and orders that are in force. 2. Court records: Court records include all documents and papers filed with the court by the parties involved in a case or proceeding, including motions, pleadings, and judgments. 3. Police records: Police records contain information regarding arrests, accidents, and criminal investigations. However, some of these records may be restricted from public access or require a court order. 4. Property records: These include information about property ownership, land, and buildings, including deeds, mortgages, tax assessments, and property information reports. 5. Vital records: Vital records include birth and death certificates, marriage licenses, and divorce decrees. 6. Legislative records: These include bills, resolutions, committee reports, and voting records. 7. Campaign finance records: Campaign finance records include campaign contribution disclosure reports, candidate financial disclosures, and disclosure reports from independent expenditure committees. It’s important to note that while most records are public, some may be subject to redaction and/or restrictions in accordance with the FOIA exemptions. Additionally, some records may require a formal request and payment of fees before they are provided to the requester.

Who Do You Contact For Public Records In District Of Columbia?

In the District of Columbia, the government entity responsible for handling public records requests is the Office of Open Government (OOG). The OOG is designed to promote transparency and accountability within the District of Columbia government. The OOG is responsible for ensuring access to public records in accordance with the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and the Open Meetings Act. To submit a public records request in the District of Columbia, you may contact the OOG via email at [email protected] or via phone at (202) 727-2540. The OOG website provides a wealth of information pertaining to public record requests, including instructions on how to submit requests, frequently asked questions, and a guide to FOIA exemptions. It is important to note that certain records may be exempt from disclosure under the FOIA. Examples of exempt records include those that contain personal identifying information, law enforcement files, and certain government agency memos. If a requested record is exempt from disclosure, the OOG will provide an explanation as to why the record is exempt. Overall, the OOG provides a valuable resource for those seeking access to public records in the District of Columbia. By following the proper procedures and working with the OOG, individuals can access a wealth of information regarding government operations within the District.

How Do I Make A Change To Public Records In District Of Columbia?

To make a change to public records in the District of Columbia, you will need to follow certain procedures depending on the type of record you wish to alter. For vital records such as birth, death, and marriage certificates, you will need to contact the DC Department of Health's Vital Records Division. This office handles requests for changes such as correcting a misspelling, adding or removing parent information, or amending a birth record to reflect a gender change. The process often involves submitting an application, supporting documentation, and paying a fee. For other types of public records such as court documents, property records, and business filings, you will need to contact the specific agency or office that manages the record. The DC Office of Public Records website is a useful resource for finding the appropriate agency for your request. The process for changing public records may vary depending on the type of record and the agency's policies, but generally involves submitting a written request or petition, providing supporting documents or evidence, and potentially attending a hearing or meeting to explain your request. It is important to note that not all public records can be changed or altered, especially those related to criminal history, arrest records, or court judgments. However, if you believe that information in a public record is inaccurate or incomplete, you have the right to request a correction or amendment. It is recommended to consult with an attorney or legal expert if you are unsure about how to proceed with changing public records in the District of Columbia.

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