How to request Illinois Public Records?
In accordance with the Illinois Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), public records in Illinois are described as any documented data or information pertaining to the execution of public responsibilities, created, possessed, utilized, received, or kept by any governmental body. These records may exist in various forms, including handwritten documents, typed materials, audio recordings, printed materials, photocopied documents, photographed records, or captured through any other means.
Table of Contents
If you wish to access public records in Illinois, here's a guide to help you:
Where to Find Public Records in Illinois
If you’re searching for public records in Illinois, the location or platform you’ll need to approach varies based on the type of record you’re after. Here’s a breakdown:
Vital Records (Birth, Death, Marriage, Divorce):
Illinois are primarily sourced from the Illinois Department of Public Health. Requests for these records can be made online, by mail, or in person. For more information, you can visit their official website.
Property Records:
Property records in Illinois can generally be found at the Town Clerk's Office in the town where the property is located. Many towns offer online databases for property searches, but this varies by locality.
Business Records:
For information about businesses registered in Illinois, the Illinois Secretary of State's website is your best bet. They provide an online business search tool to help you find details about entities registered in the state.
Court Records:
Illinois Judicial Branch has an online system called the Judicial Electronic Bridge, which provides access to court records. However, availability might differ based on the nature of the case and the specific court where it was filed. More details can be found on the Illinois Judicial Branch website.
Driving Records:
In Illinois, driving records are maintained by the Illinois Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). Requests for these records can be made online, by mail, or in person.
Professional Licenses
To verify a professional's license in Illinois, you can use the Illinois License website, which the Department of Consumer Protection manages. This platform allows for the verification of licenses across multiple professions.
Illinois State Archives:
If you're interested in historical records of Illinois, the Illinois State Library and Archives is an excellent resource. It houses a vast collection of documents, photographs, and other materials that offer insights into Illinoi's past.
Are Illinois Public Records Available Online?
Yes, many public records in Illinois are available online. The Illinois Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) guarantees the public’s right to access records held by state and local government agencies.
Numerous Illinois governmental entities have digital platforms or databases that enable the public to search for and obtain various types of public records. However, the extent of online availability may differ based on the agency and the nature of the records.
State Public Records Law
Illinois’ primary legislation governing access to state public records is the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). This act emphasizes transparency and accountability by offering the public access to a wide array of public records. Here are some critical components of the Illinois FOIA:
- Definition of Public Records: Illinois FOIA interprets public records to encompass any recorded data or information related to the conduct of the public's business. This range includes documents, emails, memos, maps, photographs, and more in both physical and digital formats.
- Access to Public Records: The FOIA grants the public the right to inspect and acquire copies of public records, barring specific exemptions. People can either obtain copies or choose to inspect them personally.
- Government Agencies Covered: Illinois FOIA is applicable to all state and municipal government bodies, which covers agencies, departments, boards, councils, and local municipalities.
- Exceptions and Exemptions: Though the FOIA emphasizes transparency, it also establishes certain exemptions to safeguard sensitive or private data. Common exemptions include personal privacy, ongoing investigations, and specific law enforcement activities.
- Record Request Process: When pursuing public records, requestors typically must specify the exact records they want and submit a written request to the relevant agency. That said, many agencies also accept requests through online forms, email, fax, or face-to-face.
- Response Time: Under the Illinois FOIA, agencies are generally obligated to acknowledge the receipt of a public records request within four business days. If additional time is required due to the volume or complexity of records, agencies must provide a reasonable estimated date of delivery.
- Fees: Agencies might levy charges for the copying of records. However, they're prohibited from charging for the time spent identifying or accessing the documents. For those facing financial constraints, certain provisions might allow for reduced or waived fees.
- Dispute Resolution: Should an individual's request for public records be declined, they can pursue multiple resolution avenues. This can involve administrative reviews, mediation, or even initiating a lawsuit to mandate the agency to disclose the desired records.
Which Records are Public in Illinois?
Illinois maintains a robust commitment to transparency through its Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). Here's a list of public records typically accessible in Illinois:
- Business Entity Information
- Statement of Information
- Fictitious Business Names (DBAs)
- Uniform Commercial Code (UCC) Filings
- Licenses and Permits
- Court Records
- Tax Liens
- Arrest Records
- Parole records
- Probation records
- Booking records
- Incident Reports
- Daily Activity Logs
- Police Radio and 911 Calls
- Court Records
- Inmate Records
- Jail Records
Which Records are Not Public in Illinois?
Illinois Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) promotes transparency, but not all records are accessible to the public due to privacy concerns or legal stipulations. Here are records typically not public in Illinois:
Illinois Background Checks
In Illinois, background checks serve as a vital tool to obtain an in-depth overview of an individual’s history, aiding in the decision-making process for a variety of purposes like employment, tenancy, or collaborative ventures. Depending on specific needs, background checks in Illinois may delve into areas such as criminal histories, employment backgrounds, academic verifications, credit histories, personal references, and more. The thoroughness of these checks can vary based on the nature and purpose of the evaluation.
Illinois has set in place rigorous laws and standards to ensure the protection of personal privacy rights during background investigations. Key laws to be aware of include the Illinois Fair Employment Practices Act (CFEPA) and the federal Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). Both acts stipulate guidelines on how personal data should be collected, used, and shared during the background check process.
When conducting background checks in Illinois, it’s vital to adhere to these legal norms, ensuring:
- Proper consent is obtained from the individual under scrutiny.
- The security and confidentiality of data is prioritized.
- Individuals have the right to access, review, and contest any inaccuracies in their background reports.
What Can Be Included In a Background Check Report?
Criminal Records
This encompasses any legal infringements, including state and federal convictions, incarceration details, sex-related offenses, traffic infractions, and potential inclusion on any national terrorism watch lists.
Social Security/Citizenship Verification
It's crucial to confirm the validity of an individual's social security number, any known aliases, and their legal U.S. citizenship status.
Sex Offender Registry
By law, sex offenders are mandated to register in their residing locality.
Terrorism Watch List
Post-9/11, the U.S. government maintains a list of individuals with proven or suspected affiliations to terrorist activities.
Driving Records
For roles requiring driving, it's essential to check an applicant's driving history to uncover any past offenses like DUIs or reckless driving incidents.
Education Transcripts
As inaccuracies are prevalent in applications and resumes, verifying educational transcripts offers a factual account of academic performances and qualifications earned.
Credit Report
An insight into an individual's financial behavior and responsibilities can be gauged through a credit report.
Illinois Court Records
Overview of the Illinois Court System and Its Structure
The Illinois court system is structured with multiple levels and diverse courts designed to address a range of cases. Here’s a glimpse into the configuration of the Illinois court system:
- Illinois Supreme Court: This is the highest court in the state. It chiefly hears appeals from the Appellate Court and has the authority to interpret state laws and the Illinois Constitution.
- Appellate Court: This is the Illinois intermediate appellate court, responsible for hearing appeals from the trial courts.
- Superior Courts: In Illinois, Superior Courts serve as the primary trial courts, handling a plethora of civil and criminal cases.
- Specialty Courts: Illinois, too, has specialty courts concentrating on particular case types or populations. Examples include family courts, juvenile courts, housing courts, drug courts, and complex litigation courts.
- Probate Courts: Separate from the Superior Courts, Illinois Probate Courts are responsible for matters concerning estates, trusts, adoptions, conservatorships, guardianships, and more.
Each court in the Illinois court system adheres to its unique set of procedural rules, all while complying with state laws and mandates. The overarching objective of the Illinois court system is to deliver just and timely resolution to legal disputes, guarantee everyone’s right to justice, and champion the principles of due process and the rule of law.
Types of Illinois Court Records
Civil Court Records
- General lawsuits, filings, and judgments.
- Housing and land disputes.
Criminal Court
- Arrest and police records.
- Court case records, proceedings, and sentences.
Family Court Records
- Divorce and annulment records.
- Child custody, visitation, and support documents.
Probate Court Records
- Estate documentation.
- Guardianship, conservatorship, and trust records.
Traffic Court Records
- Records of traffic violations and issued citations.
Illinois Court Records: Restrictions, Limitations, and Confidentiality
Illinois court records have particular constraints and measures to protect privacy and sensitive information in accordance with Illinois state laws and practices.
Records that are sealed encompass confidential information and are typically inaccessible to the general public. The courts may only unseal these records if there’s a significant reason or upon obtaining a proper court order. Just like in many other states, juvenile court records in Illinois are considered confidential to preserve the privacy of the involved minors. Access is strictly limited to specific authorized entities and relevant state departments. Mental health records, along with some probate records, are often safeguarded due to their sensitive nature and may necessitate a specific court order for access.
To ensure the privacy of individuals, Illinois courts redact or omit certain personal details and sensitive data when it’s deemed necessary. Furthermore, records containing proprietary information, trade secrets, or other sensitive material might be limited from unrestricted public view.
In Illinois, court records are overseen primarily by the Illinois Judicial Branch, maintaining them in line with state rules and principles.
What do these records contain
- Case Information: Typically, this encompasses key details such as case title, case number, filing date, and the names of the parties involved.
- Pleadings and Filings: Records might consist of copies of legal documents like motions, answers, complaints, briefs, and other relevant court documents. These outline the issues and arguments presented by the parties.
- Court Orders and Judgments: The records routinely feature judgments, court orders, and other decisions, revealing the court's conclusions regarding the case, including awarded remedies or penalties.
- Dockets and Case Summaries: Dockets provide a timeline of events related to the case, like hearings or motions. Case summaries or minute orders provide insights into actions taken during specific hearings.
- Evidence and Exhibits: Certain records could also feature evidence or exhibits presented during hearings or trials, like photos, documents, videos, and other relevant materials.
- Transcripts: These are detailed written accounts of court proceedings, capturing the exact words of everyone involved – from judges and lawyers to witnesses.
- Sentencing and Disposition: Particularly for criminal cases, records often detail charges, plea deals, sentences, fines, or other penalties.
- Case History and Appeals: The records might also delve into the case's background, including prior rulings, related appellate court verdicts, and potential appeals.
Courts in Illinois
- Trial courts
Illinois Public Vital Records
Marriage and divorce records: In Illinois, marriage licenses are typically handled by the town clerk’s office in the town where the marriage took place. Divorce records are processed by the Clerk of the Superior Court where the divorce was granted.
Birth and Death Records: The Illinois Department of Public Health (DPH) is the central repository for public vital records, which includes birth, death, marriage, and stillbirth records.
Types of Copies: Illinois vital records can be categorized as certified or informational. Certified records are official copies used for legal purposes, while informational copies contain the same data but are marked “For Informational Use Only.”
Certified vital records are typically available to the person named in the record, immediate family, or legal representatives. If you are not eligible for a certified copy, you can obtain an informational copy.
Requesting Vital Records: While you can request vital records online in Illinois, you should also be aware of the fee structure, which may vary.
| Birth certificates | $15.00 |
| Marriage certificates | varies by court |
| Divorce certificates | varies by court |
| Death certificates | $19.00 |
Illinois Public Criminal Records
Definition and Types of Criminal Records in Illinois
Criminal records in Illinois refer to official documents that detail an individual’s criminal activities within the state. They encompass a variety of records such as arrest records, court case details, conviction data, sentencing, probation, or parole information.
Information contained in criminal records
- Personal Identification Details:These records typically feature information about the individual, such as their full name, any known aliases, date of birth, and at times their address.
- Arrest Records and Charges: Offers specifics about the arrest, including when and where it took place, the law enforcement agency involved, and the charges brought against the individual.
- Court Case Information and Outcomes: Details the court events tied to the case, encompassing the court’s identification, case number, case status, and pivotal dates like arraignments, pretrial proceedings, and verdicts.
- Convictions and Sentencing Details: If found guilty, the record will highlight the conviction(s) and the related charges. Details on sentencing might also be present, such as fines imposed, probation periods, community service mandates, or prison sentences.
- Probation or Parole Status:If the person is under probation or parole, the record could outline the terms and specifics of their ongoing supervision.
Illinois Police Records and Reports
Public access to police reports in Illinois can be limited, but the Illinois Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) mandates the release of certain records upon request. Such information includes the arrestee's name, charges filed, and factual accounts of the incident, including the nature of the crime, use of weapons, injuries, and any property damage. Inquiries for police reports should be directed to the involved police department. Some details, especially those that concern victim identities or pose potential threats to the public or the investigative process, are withheld. Obtaining certain police records in Illinois might necessitate a formal FOIA request.
Booking Records and Reports
When an individual is arrested in Illinois, a booking record or arrest log is generated. This typically includes the person's name, date, and time of arrest, the charges faced, and other pertinent details. Generally, booking records are public and can be sourced from the arresting law enforcement agency or online databases, contingent on the agency's provisions.
DUI Records
Federal regulations limit the public release of specific driver's license details, like residential addresses. In Illinois, driving under the influence (DUI) is a criminal offense, and records of arrests and convictions related to DUI are typically available to the public. To gather information on those incarcerated for DUI offenses, one can check with the relevant county jail or the Illinois Department of Correction. Additionally, court records from the adjudicating county can offer insights into DUI convictions. It's important to note that if no charges or convictions materialized, public records might not exist, though official background checks could reveal such data.
Felony and Misdemeanor Records
In Illinois, records of felony and misdemeanor convictions can be accessed primarily through the judicial branch. The Illinois Judicial Branch maintains records of court proceedings. For these records, one can search the court's database in the pertinent county. When seeking details about someone currently in custody, the Illinois Department of Correction's website provides relevant arrest and charge data. For misdemeanors, the same approach applies: search the appropriate county court or the Department of Correction's portal. The extent of available records can fluctuate based on the county and the specifics of the case.
Parole Records
For parole records in Illinois, one should reach out to the Illinois Board of Pardons and Paroles. Parole records catalog the supervisory conditions of individuals released on parole. They encompass details like the terms of parole, interactions with parole officers, and routine evaluations. The availability and depth of these records hinge on the jurisdiction and the particularities of the given case.
Probation Records
In Illinois, probation records are managed by the Illinois Judicial Branch's Court Support Services Division. These records relate to individuals granted probation as an alternative to incarceration. They may incorporate details about the conditions of probation, communications with probation officers, and status reports concerning compliance with stipulated terms. As with other record types, access to probation records can vary depending on the jurisdiction and the specifics of the underlying case.
Warrant Search
In Illinois, active warrant details are not openly accessible to the general public due to privacy concerns. Such regulations are designed to protect individuals' rights to privacy and to avoid hindering law enforcement operations. Once a warrant has been executed leading to an arrest, the associated record becomes accessible. These arrest records can be searched through the Illinois Department of Correction (DOC) website or by getting in touch with the arresting law enforcement agency or the relevant county jail.
Inmate And Jail Records
The process of inquiring about individuals currently held within Illinois correctional institutions is known as an inmate search. Its primary objective is to offer the public insights about inmates, encompassing details such as their current facility, booking information, the charges they face, duration of their sentence, projected release dates, and their parole eligibility. The Illinois Department of Correction provides a database for this purpose, ensuring that the public can access relevant inmate information while maintaining the balance between transparency and privacy rights.
What You Can Find When Searching for an Inmate in Illinois
When conducting an inmate search in Illinois, you can anticipate discovering the following details:
- Inmate Location and Facility Details: The search will reveal the specific correctional institution where the inmate is detained. This comprises the facility’s denomination, address, and contact particulars.
- Booking Information and Charges: Through the inmate search, you’ll be privy to specifics regarding the inmate’s initial booking into the facility. This encompasses the date of booking, booking identifier, and the distinct charges pressed against them.
- Sentence Length and Release Dates: The search will shed light on the tenure of the inmate’s sentence, giving insights into the commencement date and the projected date of release.
- Parole Eligibility and Parole Board Decisions: The inmate search can also elucidate if the inmate is up for parole and proffers data on parole board verdicts, like the results of parole hearings and any stipulations enforced.
How to Conduct an Inmate Search in Illinois
In Illinois, the primary tool for such inquiries is provided by the Illinois Department of Correction (CT DOC). Here’s how you can execute your search:
- Visit the CT DOC Inmate Search Portal: Commence your search by navigating to the CT DOC inmate search website.
- Provide the Inmate’s Details: To get optimal results, supply either the inmate’s State Identification Number (SID) or their complete name.
- Initiate the Search: Post entering the required data, click the appropriate button to initiate the search.
- Examine the Results: If your search is successful and the inmate is in the system, you’ll encounter a range of data such as their SID, age, facility location, charges, and potential release dates.
Jails & Prisons in Illinois
State Prisons:
- Big Muddy River Correctional Center
- Centralia Correctional Center
- Danville Correctional Center
- Decatur Correctional Center
- Dixon Correctional Center
- East Moline Correctional Center
- Graham Correctional Center
- Hill Correctional Center
- Illinois River Correctional Center
- Jacksonville Correctional Center
- Joliet Inpatient Treatment Center
- Joliet Treatment Center
- Lawrence Correctional Center
- Lincoln Correctional Center
- Logan Correctional Center
- Menard Correctional Center
- Menard Medium Security Unit
- Pinckneyville Correctional Center
- Pontiac Correctional Center
- Pontiac Medium Security Unit
- Robinson Correctional Center
- Shawnee Correctional Center
- Sheridan Correctional Center
- Southwestern Illinois Correctional Center
- Stateville Correctional Center
- Taylorville Correctional Center
- Vandalia Correctional Center
- Vienna Correctional Center
- Western Illinois Correctional Center
Can I look up mugshots in Illinois?
Under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act (FOIA), people in Illinois can see public records, like arrest data and mugshots. You can find these on government websites such as the Department of Correction website. These sites have both new and old arrest records. The Illinois Department of Correction keeps its list of offenders up-to-date. Some websites that list jail inmates in Illinois might also show their mugshots, but this depends on the area.
If you want to get arrest records and mugshots in Illinois using FOIA, here’s how:
- Write to the agency that has the records you want. In your letter, be clear about what you want. Include the names of the people, when they were arrested, and where they were arrested.
- The agency has to answer you in 10 days.
- There might be a small fee for getting these records. They might charge you for making copies, but they can’t charge for the time it takes to find the records or remove private information.
Illinois Arrest Records
Illinois arrest records refer to official documents and records that document an individual’s arrest by law enforcement authorities within the state. These records offer insights about the circumstances, charges, and potential outcomes of an arrest. The primary objective of arrest records is to create a thorough record of an individual’s interactions with the criminal justice system. This ensures transparency and accountability in law enforcement operations.
What Do These Records Contain:
Illinois arrest records usually have the following details:
- Personal Identification Details: These records show personal details of the person, such as their full name, any known aliases, date of birth, and occasionally their address.
- Arrest Details: The records share information about the arrest like when and where it happened, the agency that made the arrest, the officer’s name, and the charges against the person.
- Booking Information:Information about the booking process, like fingerprints, photos (mugshots), and other identification details taken during booking might be in the arrest records.
- Charges and Criminal Offenses:The records describe the exact charges or laws the person is said to have broken. This includes the type of offense and any related laws or rules.
- Court Case Data: If the legal process has started, the arrest records might have some information about the court case, such as the court handling it, the case number, and other important case facts.
Illinois Property and Asset Records Online
Illinois property records are accessible to the general public. State laws dictate that all documents tied to real estate dealings are to be made available by the respective county clerks’ offices or similar record-holding institutions when requested.
When seeking Illinois property records, individuals can use government-run platforms or turn to third-party websites. These third-party platforms offer easy access and aren’t restricted to a specific region in the state. However, as they operate independently and aren’t affiliated with any government body, the accuracy and details of the information they provide might differ.
Unclaimed Properties in Illinois
In Illinois, the State Treasurer’s Office is responsible for gathering and protecting unclaimed money and valuables that haven’t been claimed by residents over a set duration, typically between three to five years. These unclaimed assets can encompass various items such as savings or checking accounts, uncashed checks, deposits, shares from stocks, bonds or mutual funds, travelers’ checks, money orders, life insurance policies, and the contents of safe deposit boxes, to name a few. Importantly, the original owners or their immediate family members can claim these assets indefinitely; there’s no expiration date to retrieve their property or money.
Driving Records
The Illinois Department of Motor Vehicles offers an online service enabling individuals to obtain copies of their driving records.
To view and print your driving record, you must first create an account on the CT DMV’s online portal, pay a nominal fee (please refer to the CT DMV website for current fees), and ensure your printer is set up and ready for printing. If you need an official hard copy of your driving record, a request form must be filled out and mailed to the CT DMV.
Additionally, you can obtain driving record information for another person at a specified fee (please check the CT DMV’s website for current fees). If you require physical copies of certain documents, such as those on microfilm, additional charges may apply. Always refer to the Illinois DMV website or contact them directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information and fees.
Civil Driving Infractions
In Illinois, traffic violations are generally categorized as infractions or misdemeanors, depending on the severity of the offense.
Common traffic infractions in Illinoisinclude:
- Speeding
- Running a red light or stop sign
- Following too closely (tailgating)
- Unsafe lane changes
- Failure to wear a seatbelt
For most of these infractions, drivers may face fines, and the amount can vary based on the specific violation.
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs (DUI) in Illinois is a more serious offense, typically classified as a misdemeanor for first-time offenders. Penalties for a first-time DUI can include fines ranging from $500 to $1,000, imprisonment for up to six months, and a 45-day license suspension followed by the mandatory use of an ignition interlock device for a year.
Repeat offenders or those with particularly high blood alcohol concentrations may face more severe penalties.
Illinois White Pages - Locate Residents, Addresses, and Other Pertinent Data
Address Search
There are a few ways to do a reverse address lookup in Illinois.
- Check with the Town Clerk’s Office: In Illinois, the Town Clerk’s Office keeps track of property records. You can go to the Town Clerk’s Office in the town where the property is and ask for the land records. This will usually tell you the owner’s name and more details about the property.
- Use Online Lookup & Public Records Services: There are many websites and apps that let you find out about properties and their owners. Some might charge a fee, but they can give details like the owner’s name, address, and contact number.
People Search
In Illinois, you can find information about individuals through various methods. The Illinois Department of Public Safety maintains a database of criminal records that can be accessed upon request. Additionally, there are free online platforms that provide access to public records, covering data such as voter registrations, property records, and court cases. While it’s typically legal to conduct such a search for genuine reasons like reconnecting with a lost relative or vetting a potential employee, it’s illegal to misuse this information with harmful intent. It’s important to be cautious when using these services.
Can I Search By a Phone Number and Identify The Owner?
Yes, in Illinois, you can use reverse phone lookup services to identify the owner of a particular phone number. These tools match phone numbers to details like names, addresses, and sometimes even pictures or social media accounts. When attempting to identify a phone number owner, you can input various pieces of information, from the direct phone number itself to related details like a name or address. However, it’s important to ensure your search respects privacy regulations and Illinois state laws.
How to Conduct a License Plate Lookup in Illinois
Illinois, similar to many states, generally restricts the public from obtaining driver information solely based on a license plate number, with a few exceptions.
Suppose you fall victim to a crime and the only detail you have is the license plate number of a vehicle involved. In that case, local law enforcement in Illinois can perform a license plate lookup to determine the registered owner. While this can aid the police in their investigations, the derived information is not shared with the victim or the general public.
For vehicle-specific details without owner information, third-party online platforms can provide a vehicle history report using the license plate number. Every vehicle in the U.S. has a license plate linked to its Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). Such online checks can offer data on the vehicle, such as safety recalls, major repairs, sales history, and the locations where the vehicle was registered and sold, but won’t reveal the registered owner’s details. Always ensure you’re using these services within Illinois legal boundaries.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who and why can request public records?
In Illinois, public records are generally available to everyone, be it individuals, organizations, media members, businesses, or academic researchers. The primary reason Illinois ensures access to these records is to foster an open government, allowing its citizens to understand and evaluate the actions and decisions of public entities.
Are there fees associated with requesting public records?
Yes, there might be fees associated with procuring public records in Illinois. It’s standard for state agencies to charge nominal fees to cover the costs of copying, scanning, or collating the requested documents. The exact fee can vary based on the specific agency and the nature of the request. However, certain groups, like journalists or non-profit organizations, might be eligible for reduced fees in some situations.
Can I access public records for free?
There are instances when public records in Illinois are freely accessible. Some state agencies might proactively upload certain documents on their websites, allowing public access without any charge. But if you’re after specific records that aren’t readily online, a formal request might be needed, potentially incurring associated fees.
What is the response time for public records requests?
The response duration for public records requests in Illinois can differ based on the agency involved and the intricacy of the request. While Illinois law usually directs agencies to respond within a set timeframe, typically a few days to several weeks, more complex requests, or those requiring redaction, might take longer.
Can my request be rejected?
Not all public records requests in Illinois are granted. An agency might decline a request if the desired records are exempted from disclosure under Illinois law. Typical grounds for denial encompass reasons like safeguarding individual privacy, protecting ongoing legal investigations, national security implications, or maintaining the confidentiality of trade secrets or privileged communications.
