According to Arizona Revised Statute (A.R.S.) 41-1350: ...“records” means all books, papers, maps, photographs or other documentary materials, regardless of physical form or characteristics, including prints or copies of such items produced or reproduced on film or electronic media pursuant to section 41-1348, made or received by any governmental agency in pursuance of law or in connection with the transaction of public business and preserved or appropriate for preservation by the agency or its legitimate successor as evidence of the organization, functions, policies, decisions, procedures, operations or other activities of the government, or because of the informational and historical value of data contained therein.
Generally: Arizona Revised Statutes Title 39, Chapter 1 - Public Records Title 41, Chapter 8, Article 3 - Arizona State Library, Archives and Public Records
Examples of other laws that may apply: Confidential Records - Arizona Department of Corrections, Records Confidential By Statute Administrative Code - Vital records - Limitations on who can obtain a certified copy of a birth certificate
Remember: These laws apply only to Arizona public records. If you are dealing with Federal public records or another state's public records, other laws will apply.
Online Some records are available for free online. Some agencies provide free online searching, but the actual records must be requested. Some only offer online access to permissible users. Others provide an online form to request records.
In Person Some agencies, such as the Clerk of the Court's office or the Recorder's office, may provide access to their public records at terminals. This may be the most effective way to search for records if there is no online access. The agency will most likely charge printing and copying costs.
Mail, fax and/or telephone Upon request, most agencies will provide records by mail, fax or telephone. Access may be limited if you do not have enough information identifying the record(s) you are looking for. The agency will most likely charge printing and copying costs. To help expedite the process, look for a records request form online to print and mail to the appropriate agency.
Updated 10/07
JOHN J. ROSS - WILLIAM C. BLAKLEY LAW LIBRARY PO BOX 877806 • 1102 S MCALLISTER AVE • TEMPE, AZ 85287-7806 • 480-965-6144 • FAX: 480-965-4283