What do I need to do to request records?
  • You need to know what records you want and what the government agency has them. The records request should include an accurate description of each specific record sought. The more you know about the record you wish to see, the easier it will be for the custodian to retrieve it.
  • When you have that information, file records request with the records custodian. Under Open Public Records Act (OPRA), a records request must be in writing and must be hand-delivered, mailed, faxed, or "otherwise conveyed to the appropriate custodian." The request cannot be made by telephone. Use of the Internet as a way to submit requests may be possible for an agency equipped to process such requests and is an option left open to the agency.
  • The requester is allowed to ask for a record to be copied in a particular format. It may not be possible to honor that request, but if it is feasible, an additional charge may be levied for that service if it is a format not normally used by the agency. This is most often applied to making copies or obtaining data from computer databases.

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1. Why is there an Open Public Records Act?
2. What is the policy behind Open Public Records Act (OPRA)?
3. What are government records?
4. What records are accessible to the public?
5. Why are some records exempt from disclosure?
6. What are some records that cannot be disclosed?
7. What entities doesn't Open Public Records Act (OPRA) cover?
8. Whom do I contact to obtain records from public agencies?
9. What do I need to do to request records?
10. Is there a form I have to use?
11. Do I have to pay for copies in advance of receiving them?
12. How soon can I get the records I requested?
13. What happens if my request is denied?
14. What are reasons for denials?
15. Can I ask for a record in a specific format?
16. Can I get immediate access to certain records?
17. How is personal information protected?
18. Does redaction apply to viewing or inspecting records?
19. What is the cost of paper copies of records?
20. What is the Government Records Council?
21. What can the Government Records Council (GRC) do for me if access to records is denied?
22. What is mediation?
23. How will the Government Records Council (GRC) conduct the investigation?
24. What happens if it is going to Superior Court?
25. How can I get more information about the law?
26. What are some definitions from the law?