ARTICLE

What Are Public Records?

A “public record” is a piece of information that isn’t classified as confidential. There are instances where the individuals can opt to keep some of their information as confidential. For instance, marriage documents are often kept confidential on the request of the couple. This is when they keep their marriage a secret, and don’t want to make it public. If they do make it public, then their marriage document becomes a part of public records. Once information has been recorded, then it will, more or less, become public. So, if you’re looking for a particular piece of information, then you should consider whether it is a public document or not.

If you are looking for court records, then you must know that most of these records are public. However, there are instances where a judge may find it appropriate to seal the records, hence, the information no longer becomes public. There are certain databases that keep a list of arrest records, but these records are not public. There are various online websites that keep a list of recent arrests, and this is where you can have the required information. So, you need to be sure of the type of information you’re looking for.

When determining the scope of a piece of information and referring to it as “public, it is important that it’s use and individual benefits must be considered. When it comes to the corporate world, there is plenty of public records information you can count on. In addition to the financial statements, financial analysis report and other reports aimed at the external stakeholders of a company also form part of public record. Information such as minutes of a shareholder meetings can also be part of public records. If the management is of the view that a particular type of information should be a public record, then they can keep the document open for public review.

There are certain documents that are explicitly public records. Birth records, family details and background information form part of the public records information. Public records can be easily viewed and various public offices keep an updated record of all the information you want. Various sites offer free public search and provide you with all the information you want. This can help you get all the required information without having to visit a courthouse, public records library or any other public office that maintains public records information.

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