PUBLICREPORTSIndependent · Official sources first
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PUBLIC RECORD INDEX

Choose the record.
Then find its keeper.

Different records live in different systems. Use the matrix to match your task with the agency and search detail most likely to move it forward.

RECORDCUSTODIANSTART WITHWHAT IT COVERS
01Court recordsCourt or clerkCase number · partyCases, dockets, filings, opinions, copies02Property recordsAssessor · tax office · GISAddress · parcel IDAssessment, tax, parcel, map, ownership fields03Deed recordsRecorder · clerk · land recordsInstrument · partyRecorded deeds and land instruments04Vital recordsState or local vital recordsEvent · place · dateBirth, death, marriage, divorce certificates05Business recordsState registration officeEntity · filing numberEntity filings, status, registered details06Inmate recordsBOP · state DOC · local jailName · inmate IDCustody locator within agency coverage07Sex offender registryDOJ · jurisdiction registryName · locationParticipating public registry data08Unclaimed propertyState office · federal programName · prior stateState-held property and source-specific funds09Professional licensesState regulator or boardLicense · name · professionLicense status and regulator-published fields

VISUAL FIELD NOTES

Editorial illustrations clarify the workflow. They do not depict a specific office, person, or record.

Illustrative public information terminal with an abstract official-record search interface
ILLUSTRATIVEOfficial search tools vary in coverage, fields, and update timing.
Illustrative government archive reading room with document boxes and an open folder
ILLUSTRATIVEThe custodian and its archive define what the search can cover.
Illustrative verification desk with four blank cards, a magnifying glass, and an archive box
ILLUSTRATIVECheck source, scope, date, and identity before relying on a result.

WHEN THE OFFICE IS UNCLEAR

Place the record in a jurisdiction.

  1. 01

    Federal — start with the federal court, agency, prison, or program-specific source.

  2. 02

    State — look for the judicial branch, health department, corrections department, registration office, or licensing regulator.

  3. 03

    Local — identify the county or city court, clerk, recorder, assessor, tax office, or local archive.

STILL NOT SURE?

Use the source-first search protocol.

Open the five-step guide