Records About a Specific Case
Build a case-centered request that connects names, addresses, case numbers, dates, departments, and referenced documents into one coherent records scope.
Build the request around the records job, not a vague request for “everything.”
A strong records request identifies the agency, record type, time period, and identifiers or custodians that make the records searchable. Official agencies commonly ask for practical inputs such as addresses, parcel or case numbers, dates, permit numbers, custodians, and a clear description of the records sought. This workflow turns those inputs into a structured request.
Turn the search into a request that an agency can act on.
Enter what you know, identify the records, review the generated scope, and preserve the final request. The goal is a clear, searchable description of the records you want and the information that helps the custodian find them.
Receiving files is not the same as verifying a complete production.
Preserve the original request, organize the response, and review the production for missing categories, references to records that were not produced, duplicates, identifier inconsistencies, timeline gaps, and redaction or withholding language.
Records About a Specific Case FAQ
Answers focus on the practical search and request questions people ask before submitting a records request.
Identify the case number if known, agency or department, people or property involved, date range, and categories of records you want.
Use the people, property, event, project, department, and date information available. A clear factual description can still provide a useful search anchor.
A case file may refer to photographs, permits, correspondence, inspections, attachments, or other records held elsewhere. Explicitly identifying those categories improves production review.
List the departments or custodians most likely to maintain responsive records and keep the case identifiers consistent across the request scope.
Turn this search into an actual request.
Start with the objective in plain English. The workspace handles the structure.
Build a case request →