Louisiana Public Records Search

What Records Are Public In Louisiana?

In Louisiana, the public records are governed by the Louisiana Public Records Act, which is also known as the Louisiana Revised Statutes Title 44. The law declares that all public records in the state are open for inspection and copying by any member of the public, except for those that are specifically exempted by law. The Louisiana Public Records Act defines a public record as any document, writing, or other information Any information that is stored in a physical form, regardless of whether it is in a written, printed, photographic, or electronic form, falls under the definition of public records. The law mandates that agencies must provide access to public records during their regular business hours, and they must furnish copies of records upon request, with reasonable fees for duplication and administrative costs. Some records can be accessed online. However, there are some types of records that are exempt from public access, such as records that contain confidential information, trade secrets, or information about ongoing criminal investigations. This includes medical records or public employee disciplinary records. In conclusion, Louisiana Revised Statutes Title 44 establishes the public's right to access and obtain public records held by Louisiana state agencies, except for those records that are specifically exempted by law.

Who Do You Contact For Public Records In Louisiana?

In Louisiana, the public records request is handled by the Louisiana Secretary of State. Specifically, the Office of the Secretary of State’s Public Records Division is responsible for processing and responding to public records requests. To make a public records request in Louisiana, individuals may submit their inquiry via email, fax, mail or in person to the Public Records Division. It is important to note that while the Louisiana Public Records Act grants the public access to most records except for those that are specifically exempted by law, the request must be specific and reasonable in scope. When submitting a public records request, it is important to include as much detail as possible regarding the records being sought. This may include the names of specific individuals or organizations, dates, and any other relevant information that may help identify the records. For more information regarding public records requests in Louisiana, including any applicable fees, response time requirements, and exemptions, individuals may visit the Louisiana Secretary of State’s website or contact the Public Records Division directly.

How Do I Make A Change To Public Records In Louisiana?

In Louisiana, making a change to a public record can be done through a few different processes depending on the nature of the record and the type of change that needs to be made. For example, changes to birth or death certificates, marriage licenses, or divorce decrees can be made through the Louisiana Department of Health Vital Records Registry. This process typically involves filling out an application form and providing documentation that supports the change being requested (such as a court order). For other types of public records, such as property ownership or criminal records, changes may need to be made through the agency that maintains the record. For example, if an error is discovered in a property deed, the owner may need to petition the Clerk of Court in the parish where the property is located to have the deed corrected. In some cases, individuals may need to go through the courts to make a change to a public record. For example, if someone has been convicted of a crime and wants to have their record expunged (or removed from public view), they may need to file a petition with the court and provide evidence that they meet the criteria for expungement under Louisiana law. Overall, the process for making a change to a public record in Louisiana will depend on the type of record in question and the reason for the change. It may be helpful to consult with an attorney or the agency that maintains the record to ensure that all necessary steps are taken and required documentation is provided.

Louisiana State Resources

• Governor John B. Edwards
• Secretary of State
• State Agencies
• Association of Counties
• State Personnel Directory
• Department of Social Services
• Department of Justice
• Department of Rehabilitation
• Judicial Branch
• Legislative Branch
• Census
• OMV

Louisiana State Charities

• Childrenandarthritis
• Coalition To Restore Coastal Louisiana
• Camp Bon Coeur
• Foundation Louisiana
• Louisiana Amber Alert
• Louisiana Art And Science Museum