Is there a form I have to use?

Yes. Each agency has a records request form to be used to request records under the Open Public Records Act (OPRA). The records request form includes the name, address, and phone number of the requester and space for a brief description of the record sought. A written request provides a paper trail; in the event of a denial, this written record can be very important when making an appeal to the Government Records Council or Superior Court. While anonymous requests may be permitted, the custodian will require a 100% advance payment for any copies that are requested anonymously.

In addition, agencies may release some routinely requested records "informally" by phone, fax, or in person. Such an informal request would not bind the public agency to the time frames provided by OPRA and would not extend certain other rights to the requester, such as the right of appeal to the Government Records Council.

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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?