The Oregon Public Records and Meetings Law grants the right to any individual, business entity, corporation, or government entity to examine, duplicate, and obtain copies of public records. Additionally, the legislation stipulates that a formal written request for records must be submitted to the custodian of said public records, with an assurance that the records will be furnished within a reasonable timeframe.
Public records encompass any documented information retained or utilized by a public entity in the course of its official responsibilities. This broad category encompasses various materials, such as but not limited to written communications, reports, memoranda, work documents, research findings, final reports, and suggestions generated by staff members, consultants, or other relevant parties.
How to request Oregon Public Records?
Requesting public records in Oregon generally involves the following steps:
Table of Contents
To request Oregon public records, follow these steps:
Where to find Public Records in Oregon
Here’s where you can find various public records in Oregon:
Vital Records (Birth, Death, Marriage, Divorce):
In Oregon, there are four methods for ordering vital records such as birth, death, marriage, and divorce certificates. Firstly, by mail: application forms are available on the Oregon Health Authority website and should be mailed to the specified address along with a check or money order for the fee. Secondly, orders can be placed online via VitalChek, which incurs an additional service charge. Thirdly, you can obtain records in person by scheduling an appointment with the Oregon Health Authority, where you'll need to present a valid photo ID and the fee. Lastly, phone orders are accepted at 1-888-896-4988, a 24/7 hotline operational every day except holidays.
Property Records:
Oregon property records can be accessed online through multiple sources. Each county in Oregon maintains a website where property tax records are available. Additionally, some counties offer online access to assessor's records. For historical property ownership records, the Oregon State Archives offers an online database. Furthermore, unclaimed properties, including contents of abandoned safe deposit boxes, can be found on the Oregon State Treasury's Unclaimed Property website. This variety of online resources provides comprehensive access to different types of property-related information in Oregon.
Business Records:
Business records, including registered business names and other relevant data, are available through the Oregon Secretary of State's Business Search portal.
Court Records:
In Oregon, you can access court records online through various services provided by the Oregon Judicial Department. The main website of the Oregon Judicial Department offers free access to basic case information and scheduled court dates, as well as resources for remote hearings. For more detailed information, the Oregon Judicial Case Information Network (OJCIN) Online is a key resource. It is a subscription-based service that provides access to the official Register of Actions and judgment dockets from all Oregon State Courts, including trial, appellate, and tax courts. This service is available through a standard web browser and is designed to be low-cost, making it accessible for most users.
Driving Records:
Driving records, or abstracts of driving records, showing violations, convictions, accidents, and suspensions, are public records in Oregon. They can be requested online on Oregon Driver & Motor Vehicle Services (DMV), by mail, or through public databases.
Professional Licenses
Professional licensure information in Oregon is available at respective professional boards.
Oregon State Archives:
Oregon State Archives records are accessible for public research on Oregon Secretary of State Website.
Are Oregon Public Records Available Online?
While not all public records in Oregon are accessible online, several state agencies offer online access to specific types of records. The Oregon Judicial Branch features an online searchable database that includes case information for all Oregon circuit courts and the Oregon Tax Court. This database is a valuable resource for those seeking information on court proceedings and legal matters in Oregon. Additionally, vital records such as birth, death, marriage, and divorce certificates are available online through VitalCheck, the official partner of the Oregon Health Authority. This service provides an easy and convenient way to obtain essential personal documents.
State Public Records Law
The Oregon Public Records and Meetings Law allows access to government records for public inspection and copying unless specifically exempted by statute.
- Definition of Public Records: In Oregon, public records are defined as any government records pertaining to the conduct of public business, prepared, owned, used, or retained by a public body, with a few exceptions.
- Access to Public Records: Access to these records is mandated by law for all public bodies, including state and local agencies, departments, boards, commissions, governing bodies, school districts, and municipal corporations.
- Government Agencies Covered: To request public records, one must submit a written request, including email, to the relevant government agency or official.
- Exceptions and Exemptions: Includes records related to active criminal investigations and confidential communications between government officials and lawyers.
- Record Request Process: Written requests, including emails, to the government agency or official who has or controls the record.
- Response Time: The records must be produced within five working days.
- Fees: Agencies may charge fees to recover the cost of fulfilling requests, with potential waivers or reductions in public interest.
- Dispute Resolution: Appeals can be made to the Oregon Attorney General or county District Attorney, with the possibility of filing a lawsuit in Circuit Court if necessary.
Which records are public in Oregon
Which records are not public in Oregon
In Oregon, certain records are exempt from public disclosure under the Oregon Public Records and Meetings Law. These exemptions include:
Oregon Background Checks
Oregon background checks are used to screen candidates or volunteers during the hiring process and can include various types of information. Depending on the depth of the search, an Oregon background check report may include:
What Can Be Included In a Background Check Report?
Criminal History
Checked through the State of Oregon Law Enforcement Data System (LEDS) and possibly the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), including felony or misdemeanor convictions and pending criminal cases.
Employment History
Verification of previous employers, job titles, and employment dates.
Education Verification
Confirmation of educational institutions attended, attendance dates, degrees obtained, and graduation dates.
Credit History
Assessment of credit history, including payment history, collections, and bankruptcies.
Drug Testing
Screening for the presence of controlled substances.
Identity Verification
Checking the validity of Social Security numbers, matching applicant information, and identifying any associated addresses or names.
Sex Offender Registry Check
Searching for registration as a sex offender in any state, including offense details.
Oregon Court Records
Overview of the Oregon court system and its Structure
The Oregon court system is structured to handle various legal matters, ranging from minor disputes to complex legal cases. Here’s an overview of its structure:
- Oregon Supreme Court: It is the highest court in the state, handling appeals from lower courts and overseeing the administration of the state’s court system. The court consists of a Chief Justice and six Associate Justices.
- Oregon Court of Appeals: This intermediate appellate court reviews decisions from circuit courts and state agencies. It consists of judges elected statewide, and its decisions are subject to review by the Oregon Supreme Court.
- Oregon Circuit Courts: Serving as general jurisdiction trial courts, circuit courts address civil, criminal, family, probate, and juvenile matters. Oregon is divided into judicial districts, each with a circuit court.
- County and Justice Courts: These are limited jurisdiction courts focusing on minor matters such as traffic violations, misdemeanors, and small claims. They are more common in less populated counties.
- Municipal Courts: Operating at the city level, these courts primarily deal with city ordinance violations and minor offenses such as traffic violations.
- Tax Court: A specialized court, it exclusively handles disputes related to Oregon tax laws, with its decisions being appealable to the Oregon Supreme Court.
Types of Oregon Court Records
Civil Court Records
- Personal injury cases from traffic accidents
Criminal Court
- Arrest records
- Court case records and proceedings
Family Records
Bankruptcy Filings
- Records of bankruptcy for individuals, partnerships, or corporations.
Probate Records
- Estate administration
- Guardianship
Traffic Records
Restrictions, Limitations, and Confidentiality
In Oregon, court records are generally public, but there are significant restrictions and limitations to ensure confidentiality and privacy. Certain types of information, such as juvenile records, adoption records, and records in cases of sensitive nature like sexual assault or domestic violence, are often kept confidential. Additionally, personal information like Social Security numbers, victim identities, and details that might endanger a person’s safety or privacy are typically redacted. The state adheres to a set of laws and regulations that balance public access with the need to protect individual privacy and the integrity of ongoing legal proceedings.
What do these records contain
- Case Files:: Detailed documentation of each case, including case numbers, parties involved, and the nature of the case (civil, criminal, family law, etc.).
- Legal Motions and Orders: Documents filed by the parties and orders issued by the court throughout the case.
- Evidence Documentation: Records of evidence presented during the trial, which may include witness testimonies, physical evidence, and expert reports.
- Judgments and Rulings: Final decisions, judgments, or verdicts handed down by the court, along with sentencing information in criminal cases.
- Transcripts: Verbatim records of court proceedings, including trials, hearings, and other legal processes.
- Docket Entries: Chronological logs of all the actions and filings in a case, providing a summary timeline of the case proceedings.
Courts in Oregon
- Federal Courts
- Trial Courts
Oregon Public Vital Records
Marriage and Divorce Records: In Oregon, public vital records, including marriage and divorce records, are maintained and provided by the Oregon Health Authority’s Center for Health Statistics. These records are crucial for legal, personal, and genealogical purposes, documenting marriages and dissolutions of marriages within the state. Marriage records typically include details like the names of the spouses, date and place of marriage, and the marriage certificate number. Divorce records usually contain information such as the names of the parties involved, date of the divorce, and the county where the divorce was granted. For individuals seeking access to these vital records, they can be obtained through the Oregon Health Authority’s Center for Health Statistics, which offers detailed guidelines and the necessary forms on their official website.
Birth and Death Records: In Oregon, public vital records, such as birth and death records, are managed by the Oregon Health Authority’s Center for Health Statistics. Birth records provide essential information including the individual’s name, date and place of birth, parentage, and birth certificate number, while death records capture details like the deceased’s name, date and place of death, and cause of death. These records are invaluable for various legal, administrative, and genealogical purposes, serving as official documentation of these significant life events. Certified copies of birth and death records can be requested by eligible individuals for official or personal use. Those interested in obtaining these vital records can access services and find more information on the Oregon Health Authority’s Center for Health Statistics website, which provides detailed instructions and necessary application forms.
Oregon Public Criminal Records
Definition and Types of Criminal Records in Oregon
Oregon Criminal Records are a compilation of data and documents gathered and preserved by state entities about unlawful activities. These records serve as vital instruments for law enforcement bodies, employers, and various organizations to conduct inquiries and make knowledgeable choices concerning individuals with criminal backgrounds. You can find these records in The Oregon Judicial Case Information Network (OJCIN).
Information Included in Criminal Records
Typically, criminal records in Oregon may contain the following information:
- Full name and personal identifying information of the individual
- Arrest and conviction records
- Charges filed against the individual
- Court appearances and sentencing information
- Warrant information
- Probation or parole details
- Fines, fees, and restitution amounts owed by the individual
- Details of any offenses committed, including their nature, severity, and date
- Jail and prison records
- Mugshots and fingerprints
Police Records and Reports
Oregon Police Records and Reports can be accessed through the Oregon State Police website, where one can request various public records maintained by the state police.
Booking Records and Reports
Booking Records in Oregon detail an individual's arrest, personal information, and the incident leading to the arrest, maintained by law enforcement agencies like the state police. These records are publicly accessible as per ORS § 192.345(3) and can be found on websites like Oregon State Records.
DUI Records
For DUI Records in Oregon, one can refer to the Oregon Judicial Department website, which provides access to various case and court records, including those related to DUI offenses.
Felony and Misdemeanor Records
Information on Felony and Misdemeanor cases in Oregon can be obtained through the Oregon Judicial Department's website, offering details on criminal cases managed by the state's judicial system.
Parole Records
The Oregon Board of Parole provides access to parole records, which include details on individuals currently under parole supervision in the state.
Probation Records
Probation records in Oregon can be accessed through the Oregon Judicial Department's website, where one can find information regarding individuals currently on probation.
Warrant Search
In Oregon, warrants are public court records. Interested persons can search for outstanding warrant information through the Online Records Search tool provided by the Oregon Judicial Department. This tool allows for a comprehensive search of various court records, including warrants.
Inmate And Jail Records
The Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) provides the Oregon Offender Search system, offering public access to offender information. For official or certified copies of offender records, a Public Records Request must be submitted to the DOC.
What you can find
Here’s the information on Oregon Inmate Records, formatted with proper bullets:
- Full Name: The inmate’s complete legal name.
- Aliases/Nicknames: Any alternate names or nicknames used by the inmate.
- Date of Birth: The inmate’s birth date.
- Physical Description: Includes height, weight, and the colors of hair and eyes.
- Photographs/Mugshots: Images of the inmate.
- Biometric Data: Fingerprints and other biometric information.
- Criminal History: Records of arrests, court appearances, and convictions.
- Sentencing Details: Information on the sentence’s length and the committed offense.
- Disciplinary History: Records of infractions or violations while in custody.
- Current Location: The inmate’s present location in the correctional system.
- Release Date: The scheduled release date and anticipated time of release.
- Parole/Probation Details: Information about any parole or probation arrangements.
- Legal Representative Contact: Contact details for the inmate’s attorney or legal representative.
How to Conduct an Inmate Lookup in Oregon
Performing an Oregon Inmate Search is quite simple and accessible to everyone. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- ODOC Website: Visit the Oregon Department of Corrections (ODOC) website and access the Oregon Offender Search (OOS) tool.
- Entering Details: Input the inmate’s name or State Identification (SID) number in the OOS system.
- Search Results: Browse through the list of matching inmates to find the specific individual.
- County-Specific Platforms: Use platforms like Multnomah County’s Sheriff’s Office for name or custody status searches, Lane County’s Sheriff’s Office for correctional facility information, and Clackamas County’s Sheriff’s Office for an online inmate roster.
- Federal Prison Inmates: For inmates in Oregon federal prisons, use the Federal Bureau of Prisons (FBOP) Inmate Locator tool for location, release date, and offense history.
- Juvenile Inmates: The Oregon Youth Authority (OYA) does not offer a public searchable youth database. To find juvenile inmates, contact the juvenile parole/probation officer (JPPO) or the county field office where the youth was adjudicated or sentenced.
Jails & Prisons in Oregon
State Prisons:
- Coffee Creek Correctional Facility, Wilsonville
- Columbia River Correctional Institution, Portland
- Deer Ridge Correctional Institution, Madras
- Eastern Oregon Correctional Institution, Pendleton
- Mill Creek Correctional Facility, Salem
- Oregon State Correctional Institution, Salem
- Oregon State Penitentiary, Salem
- Powder River Correctional Facility, Baker City
- Santiam Correctional Institution, Salem
- Shutter Creek Correctional Institution, North Bend
- Snake River Correctional Institution, Ontario
- Two Rivers Correctional Institution, Umatilla
- Warner Creek Correctional Facility, Lakeview
Federal Prisons
Youth Correctional Facilities
- Eastern Oregon Youth Correctional Facility, Burns
- MacLaren Youth Correctional Facility, Woodburn
- North Coast Youth Correctional Facility, Warrenton
- Rogue Valley Youth Correctional Facility, Grants Pass
- Tillamook Youth Correctional Facility, Tillamook County
- Oak Creek Youth Correctional Facility, Albany
Can I look up mugshots in Oregon?
In Oregon, whether you can look up mugshots depends on the jurisdiction and the nature of the arrest or criminal case. Mugshots are often considered public records and can be accessed through various county sheriff’s office websites or state police resources. For instance, some county sheriff’s offices provide online databases where you can search for inmates, including their mugshots, based on their name or other identifying information. However, the availability of these mugshots can vary, and in some cases, they may only be accessible for certain types of crimes or under specific circumstances. To find mugshots in Oregon, you would typically start by visiting the website of the local sheriff’s office or police department in the area where the arrest occurred.
Oregon Arrest Records
Oregon Arrest Records are official documents that detail an individual’s history of arrests within the state of Oregon. These records are created and maintained by law enforcement agencies following an arrest.
What Do These Records Contain:
These records are created and maintained by law enforcement agencies following an arrest. The contents of Oregon Arrest Records typically include:
- Personal Information: The arrested individual’s full name, aliases, date of birth, and physical description (like height, weight, hair and eye color).
- Arrest Details: The date and location of the arrest, the law enforcement agency involved, and the reason for the arrest.
- Charges: Specific charges filed against the individual.
- Photographs: Mugshots taken at the time of the arrest.
- Fingerprints: Biometric data collected during the booking process.
- Court Information: Details about any court proceedings related to the arrest, including hearings, trial dates, and outcomes.
These records are used for various purposes, including background checks, legal proceedings, and by law enforcement for investigative purposes. They are generally considered public records, which means they can be accessed by members of the public, although there may be restrictions in place to protect sensitive information or the rights of the individuals involved.
Oregon Property and Asset Records Online
To find property and asset records in Oregon, you can explore several online resources:
- Local Government Offices: According to Oregon Public Records Law, property records are publicly available. You can access these records through local government offices in Oregon. Each county’s Register of Deeds is the custodian of its property records.
- ORMAP (Oregon Map): ORMAP offers a platform to view all tax lots in the state and download PDF copies of the assessors’ maps. This can be particularly useful for detailed property information.
- CourthouseDirect.com: This website provides an online search for Oregon public property records, including real estate and asset search, title research, and more. The Secretary of State’s office in Oregon is a key resource for this information.
- OregonPublicRecords.org: This site enables an online search for Oregon property records, including legal documents such as deeds of ownership.
Unclaimed Properties
Oregon’s Unclaimed Property Program: This program helps residents access unclaimed assets like uncashed checks, forgotten security deposits, tax refunds, and more. You can find lost funds and learn about licensed finders, search laws and rules, and access forms and reports through this program.
Oregon Unclaimed Property – Official State Website: This official website maintains a publicly accessible database for searching unclaimed property. You can search this database using a last or business name and first name. The search process is free and straightforward.
Driving Records
In Oregon, you can request your driving records through the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT). There are several methods to obtain these records:
- Online Request: You can order your driving record online through the Oregon DMV’s web portal. This process requires your Oregon license or ID number and the last 6 digits of your SSN. You can visit the Oregon DMV records page here and follow the link to ‘Order Your Driving Record Online’.
- Request by Mail: To request your driving record by mail, you need to fill out the ‘Order Your Own Record’ form (Form 735-7266). This form requires you to list your name, date of birth, and driver’s license number. You can find the form on the Oregon DMV forms page here. Click on ‘Order Your Own Record’ to download the form.
- In-Person Request: You can also request your driving record in person at a local Oregon DMV office. You will need to fill out the same ‘Order Your Own Record’ form (Form 735-7266).
Civil Driving Infractions
In Oregon, civil driving infractions, often referred to as traffic violations or minor misdemeanors, are non-criminal offenses related to the rules of the road. Some common civil driving infractions include:
- Speeding: Base fine of $160, which can increase based on the speed limit and the number of miles over the driver’s limit.
- Running a Red Light: Base fine of $260.
- Failure to Yield: Base fine of $265.
- Improper Passing: Base fine of $315.
- Driving While Suspended or Revoked: A misdemeanor offense with up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $6,250.
- DUII (Driving Under the Influence of Intoxicants): A misdemeanor offense with up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $6,250.
- Reckless Driving: A misdemeanor offense with up to one year in jail and a fine of up to $6,250.
- Driving Without Insurance: A violation with a fine of up to $2,500.
Oregon White Pages - Access to People, Addresses, and Other Non-Official Information
Address Search
Oregon Address Search, on the other hand, is a specialized tool focused on locating and providing detailed information about specific addresses in the state. This service can reveal information about property ownership, historical data, and sometimes even the demographic makeup of a neighborhood. Homebuyers, real estate professionals, and researchers often utilize Oregon Address Search to gain insights into property values, neighborhood safety, and local amenities. The service is instrumental in facilitating informed decisions about property investments and relocations. As with any public information tool, users are encouraged to employ Oregon Address Search responsibly and consider privacy implications.
People Search
Oregon People Search services provide a practical means for locating individuals within the state. These services typically aggregate public records and other legal data sources to compile comprehensive profiles that may include names, addresses, contact information, and sometimes even background details. Utilized frequently by those looking to reconnect with lost contacts, verify the identity of individuals, or conduct personal background checks, Oregon People Search is a valuable tool in the digital age. The accessibility of these online platforms ensures that anyone with internet access can conduct searches. However, it’s crucial to use these services ethically and within the confines of privacy laws, especially when handling sensitive personal information.
Can I Search By a Phone Number and Identify The Owner?
In Oregon, as in many other regions, it is possible to search by a phone number to identify its owner, a process commonly known as a reverse phone lookup. This type of search can be performed using various online services and directories. These services typically access public records and commercially available data to match a phone number with the name and sometimes additional details of the owner.
How to Do a License Plate Lookup in Oregon
The Oregon Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) can provide certain information from license plate lookups, but this is typically restricted to authorized individuals or entities, such as law enforcement, lawyers in the course of their work, or parties involved in a vehicle transaction. The DMV will not provide personal information about a vehicle owner due to privacy laws, including the Driver’s Privacy Protection Act (DPPA). Some various third-party websites and services offer license plate lookups. These services usually access public records and databases to provide vehicle history reports. Note that these services may not be able to provide current registration information or owner details due to privacy restrictions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who and why can request public records?
In Oregon, any member of the public, including individuals, businesses, and organizations, can request public records without needing to state a purpose. Public records are accessible to both residents and non-residents of the state.
Are there fees associated with requesting public records?
Yes, there are fees associated with requesting public records in Oregon. These fees cover the cost of locating, reviewing, and copying the records, and they can vary depending on the nature and volume of the records requested.
Are public records Free to access?
While some public records in Oregon may be available for free, especially those accessible online, in most cases, there are fees for copying, compiling, and processing requests for physical records.
What is the response time for public records requests?
The response time for public records requests in Oregon is generally within five business days. However, this can vary based on the complexity of the request and the volume of records involved.
Can my request be rejected?
Yes, your request for public records in Oregon can be rejected. Reasons for rejection may include the requested information being exempt from disclosure under state law, such as records related to personal privacy, security, or ongoing investigations.
