Your Comprehensive Guide to Delaware Public Records

Delaware Public Records

Public records in Delaware are documents, information, and data held by state and local government entities, accessible to the public per the Delaware Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). This Act, codified in Title 29, Chapter 100 of the Delaware Code, outlines the public's right to access government records, with certain exceptions for privacy and confidentiality. One can refer to the Delaware Freedom of Information Act for a detailed understanding of Delaware's FOIA.

Are Delaware Records Public?

Yes, records in Delaware are public. The Delaware Freedom of Information Act mandates public access to government records, although there are specific exemptions to protect personal privacy and sensitive information. Additional information on the Act can be found on the Delaware State website.

What do Delaware Public Records Include?

Public records in Delaware encompass a variety of documents and information:

• Vital Records: Birth, death, marriage, and divorce records maintained by the Delaware Division of Public Health. More details can be accessed at Delaware Vital Records.
• Property Records: Information on property ownership, assessments, and taxes, available through County Recorder of Deeds offices, like the New Castle County Recorder of Deeds.
• Criminal Records: Managed by the Delaware State Police, providing background checks and criminal history records. Visit Delaware State Police Criminal History.
• Court Records include records from civil and criminal cases, accessible through the Delaware Judiciary. Information can be found at Delaware Courts.
• Business Records: The Delaware Division of Corporations oversees business filings and registrations. Detailed information is available at the Delaware Division of Corporations.

How to Find Public Records in Delaware

To find public records in Delaware, one should follow these steps:

1. Identify the Type of Record: Understand the specific record needed, such as a property or a vital record.
2. Locate the Appropriate Agency: Different records are maintained by different departments. For instance, vital records are handled by the Division of Public Health.
3. Submit a Request: Most agencies have a formal process for requesting records, typically available online, in person, or by mail.
4. Adhere to Agency Guidelines: Follow the specific requirements set by the agency, including any necessary forms and identification.
5. Pay Required Fees: Some records may involve fees for processing or copying.
6. Wait for Processing: After submission, there may be a processing period before the records are provided.

For more detailed guidance, the Delaware Public Archives offers additional resources.

Lookup Public Records in Delaware

Key departments in Delaware related to Public Records include:

• Delaware Division of Public Health: For vital records like birth and death certificates. Visit Delaware Vital Records.
• County Recorder of Deeds Offices: For property records, such as the New Castle County Recorder of Deeds.
• Delaware State Police: For criminal records and background checks. More information at Delaware State Police Criminal History.
• Delaware Courts: For court records. See Delaware Courts.
• Delaware Division of Corporations: For business records. Check out the Delaware Division of Corporations.