Finding Public Records
	Public Records Search Tools
	All Public Records Sources
	Civil Court Records
	Criminal Records
	Disciplinary Actions
	Vital Records
	Finding Researchers and Private Investigators

When searching public records, such as court filings, property records or the records of a government agency, please note that the online records often contain much less information than what you can find on-site in the supporting documentation. According to BRB Publications' Public Records Online, 6th edition, only 35 percent of public records are available online, and many of these contain insufficient information for verification purposes. Moreover, data in the online records is often erroneous. To be certain you have found information about the right person, you should verify it with the source.

Are the resources in this section limited to public records? No, public records are government records. However, other sources often contain information that is public. We include as many worthwhile sources as possible without diluting the value of the guide by including everything under the sun.

If it isn't public record, how did it become public information? Information becomes public in 3 ways:

• You disclose it. Is your resume online? Do you tell people about yourself in online forums or through a blog? Have you filed for bankruptcy, purchased a house, or filed for divorce?

• You volunteer it. Did you request that the telephone company keep your home number private? Did you give the sales clerk at the cash register your home phone number? Did you fill-in the personal information requested on a product warranty card?

• The public observes it. Do you work in a public area? Is it reasonable to assume people would see you going to, and coming from, work?