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Wyoming Public Records

The Wyoming Public Records Act (W.S. §16-4-201 through 16-4-205) ensures that all public records are accessible for inspection and copying by any member of the public. These records encompass various materials created or received in the course of official government business, regardless of their physical form. Government agencies have the authority to establish rules and procedures for requesting and granting access to public records.

How to request Wyoming Public Records?

The simplest method to obtain a public record is to reach out directly to the state or city agency responsible. Access can also be secured via private sources, given the records are open to the public.

Table of Contents

To request Wyoming Public Records, you can follow these steps:

Where to find Public Records in Wyoming

The Wyoming Public Records Act (W.S. §16-4-201 through 16-4-205) ensures that all public records are accessible by any member of the public.

Vital Records (Birth, Death, Marriage, Divorce):

You can access these records through the Vital Statistics Services of the Wyoming Department of Health. Also, historical Wyoming marriage records are available from the county clerk where the marriage license was issued, and divorce records from the clerk of the District Court where the divorce was granted.

Property Records:

The Wyoming Department of Revenue's Property Tax Division is responsible for the assessment, valuation, and taxation of property.

Business Records:

Business records in Wyoming can be found through the Wyoming Secretary of State's office.

Court Records:

Court records in Wyoming are maintained by the Wyoming Judicial Branch. You can find more information and access the records on their website here.

Driving Records:

Driving records in Wyoming can be obtained from the Wyoming Department of Transportation - Driver Services.

Professional Licenses

Information on professional licenses in Wyoming is available on the website for Licensed Occupations.

Wyoming State Archives:

For historical records, you can visit the Wyoming State Archives. Their website provides access to a range of historical documents and records.

Juvenile case records

Are Wyoming Public Records Available Online?

Yes, many public records in Wyoming are available online, although the extent and type of records available can vary. It’s important to note that while many records are accessible online, some may require a formal request process, potentially including fees, identification verification, and specific forms. Additionally, certain sensitive or confidential records may not be available to the general public or may require special authorization to access.

State Public Records Law

Which records are public in Wyoming?

Which Records are Not Public in Wyoming?

In Wyoming, as in many jurisdictions, certain types of records are classified as confidential or exempt from disclosure under the Public Records Law. These exemptions are designed to protect privacy, security, and sensitive information. The following types of records are typically considered non-public in Wyoming:

Wyoming Background Checks

Wyoming background checks are investigations typically conducted to verify an individual’s history and character for various purposes, such as employment, housing, or licensing. These checks can delve into several aspects of a person’s background, depending on the scope of the check and the reason for conducting it.

What Can Be Included In a Background Check Report?

Criminal Records

This is often the primary focus of a background check. It includes information about any past criminal convictions, arrests, warrants, and possibly juvenile criminal records, depending on the type of check and applicable laws.

Employment History

Background checks may verify an individual's employment history to confirm past job titles, durations of employment, reasons for leaving previous jobs, and possibly performance feedback.

Education Verification

This involves confirming the educational credentials claimed by an individual, such as high school diplomas, college degrees, and any certifications or licenses.

Credit History

For certain positions, especially those involving financial responsibilities, a credit history check might be included to assess an individual's financial responsibility and stability. This may include credit scores, debt levels, payment histories, bankruptcies, and any financial judgments or liens.

Driving Records

For positions involving driving responsibilities, a background check might include the individual’s driving record, such as traffic violations, accidents, driver’s license suspensions, and DUI records.

Civil Records

This can include information about any involvement in civil litigation, such as being a party to lawsuits, especially relevant for high-profile or sensitive positions.

Identity and Address Verification

This ensures the individual is who they claim to be and verifies their current and past addresses.

Drug Testing

Some background checks include drug testing results, particularly for positions that require high levels of safety or for companies with strict drug-free policies.

Sex Offender Registry Information

For certain positions, particularly those involving work with vulnerable populations like children, elderly, or disabled individuals, checks against state and national sex offender registries are included.

Professional Licenses and Certifications

Verification of any professional licenses or certifications claimed, which is crucial for positions requiring specific qualifications or credentials.

Wyoming Court Records

Overview of the Wyoming court system and its Structure

The Wyoming court system is structured to provide a hierarchical framework for the administration of justice, handling everything from minor disputes to complex legal matters. Here’s an overview of its structure:

  • Supreme Court: At the top of the Wyoming court system is the Supreme Court. It is the state’s highest court and has the final appellate jurisdiction over all state courts. The Supreme Court reviews decisions made by lower courts and interprets the constitutionality of laws. It does not conduct trials; its primary role is to decide legal questions on appeal.
  • District Courts: Below the Supreme Court are the District Courts, which serve as the primary trial courts in Wyoming. These courts have general jurisdiction over a wide range of cases, including civil matters involving more significant sums of money, felony criminal cases, family law cases, and probate matters. District Courts also hear appeals from lower courts, such as Municipal and Circuit Courts.
  • Circuit Courts: The Circuit Courts in Wyoming handle lesser civil and criminal matters. Their jurisdiction typically covers misdemeanor criminal cases, lower-value civil cases, small claims, traffic offenses, and preliminary hearings in felony cases. Circuit Courts also deal with some family law matters, such as protection orders.
  • Municipal Courts: Operating within cities and towns, Municipal Courts have limited jurisdiction and primarily handle violations of municipal ordinances, which often include traffic violations and minor criminal offenses. Decisions in Municipal Courts can be appealed to the Circuit Courts.
  • Specialized Courts: In addition to these main tiers, Wyoming also has specialized courts that address specific types of cases. These include Youth Courts, Drug Courts, and other problem-solving courts designed to focus on rehabilitation and alternative resolutions.

Types of Wyoming Court Records

Civil Court Records​

Family Court Records​

Probate Court Records​

Juvinile Court Records​

Landlord/Tenant Court Records

Restrictions, Limitations, and Confidentiality

In Wyoming, court records are generally considered public and accessible, but several restrictions, limitations, and confidentiality concerns govern the availability of these records:

  • Juvenile Records: Records pertaining to juvenile cases are typically confidential and not accessible to the public. This is to protect the privacy of minors involved in the juvenile justice system.
  • Sensitive Personal Information: Court records may contain sensitive personal information, such as social security numbers, financial account numbers, and details of minor children. Access to such information is often restricted to protect individual privacy.
  • Sealed Records: Certain court records may be sealed by order of the court. This means that they are not accessible to the public. Records are usually sealed to protect the privacy of individuals involved or to safeguard sensitive information. Examples include cases involving sensitive family matters or witness protection.
  • Pending Investigations: Records related to ongoing investigations or pending cases may be restricted to avoid prejudicing the case or to maintain the integrity of the investigation.
  • Mental Health and Substance Abuse Records: Records related to mental health or substance abuse treatment that occur within the context of court cases are typically confidential.
  • Victim Information: Information that could identify victims of crimes, especially in cases of sexual assault or domestic violence, is often kept confidential to protect the victims’ privacy and safety.
  • Trade Secrets or Proprietary Business Information: In civil litigation involving businesses, certain records that contain trade secrets or proprietary business information may be sealed or restricted.
  • Grand Jury Proceedings: Records of grand jury proceedings are generally kept confidential, as these are preliminary processes and involve secret deliberations.
  • Adoption Records: Adoption records are usually sealed to protect the privacy of the individuals involved, particularly the adoptee and the birth parents.
  • Other Statutory Exemptions: There may be other specific statutory exemptions based on Wyoming law that restrict access to certain court records.

What do these records contain

Wyoming Public Vital Records

Marriage and Divorce Records: Marriage and divorce records in Wyoming are vital records documenting the legal status of marriages and the dissolution of marriages through divorce. These records are maintained by the Wyoming Department of Health’s Vital Statistics Services and can be accessed for various legal, personal, and genealogical purposes. Marriage records can also be obtained from the county clerk in the county where the marriage license was issued, while divorce records are available from the clerk of the District Court where the divorce was granted. For more detailed information and to request these records, visit the Vital Statistics Services website.

Birth and Death Records: Birth and death records are crucial public records in Wyoming, providing official documentation of a person’s birth and death. These records are maintained by the Vital Statistics Services of the Wyoming Department of Health, serving as essential records for legal identification, citizenship, inheritance, and genealogical research. Birth records provide details such as date and place of birth, parentage, and other relevant information, while death records include information about the date, place, and cause of death. You can request birth and death records and find more information on the Vital Statistics Services

Wyoming Public Criminal Records

Definition and Types of criminal records in Wyoming

Wyoming criminal records, commonly referred to as rap sheets, are official documents detailing the criminal history of individuals within the state. These records are compiled from various sources, including law enforcement agencies, courts, and correctional facilities. A Wyoming criminal record typically contains the following information:

  • Personal Identification: The record includes personal information such as the individual’s name, date of birth, physical descriptors (height, weight, hair and eye color, etc.), fingerprints, and photographs. This helps in accurately identifying the subject of the record.
  • Arrest Records: Details of any arrests, including the date, location, and the agency that made the arrest. It also lists the charges for which the individual was arrested. Arrest records may be included even if they did not lead to a conviction.
  • Charges and Convictions: Information about charges filed against the individual, outcomes of the cases, and any resulting convictions. This includes misdemeanors, felonies, and other offenses.
  • Sentencing Information: If there is a conviction, the record will detail the sentence imposed. This can include jail or prison time, probation, fines, community service, and other penalties.
  • Incarceration Records: If the individual has been incarcerated, the record will include information about their detention, including the facility where they were held, duration of incarceration, and any relevant behavior or incidents during incarceration.
  • Parole/Probation Details: For individuals released on parole or probation, the record includes information on the terms of their release, the duration of parole/probation, and compliance status.
  • Warrants: Active or past warrants issued against the individual may also be listed.

Police Records and Reports

Wyoming police records and reports consist of documents created by law enforcement agencies during investigations, arrests, and routine operations. These records can include incident reports, arrest reports, and accident reports, providing details of specific events and actions taken by the police. The public can access these records through the respective local law enforcement agencies, such as city or county police departments or the Wyoming Highway Patrol. For more information and to request records, you can visit the Wyoming Highway Patrol website.

Booking Records and Reports

Booking records and reports in Wyoming contain information about individuals booked into county jails or detention centers. These records typically include the individual's personal information, booking photograph (mugshot), charges, and details about the arrest. You can find these records through the county sheriff's office or local law enforcement agency responsible for the detention center.

DUI Records

DUI records in Wyoming are official documents that record instances where individuals have been arrested and convicted for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. These records include details about the arrest, charges, court proceedings, and any resulting convictions or penalties. DUI records are available through the Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT) and can also be found in court records.

Felony and Misdemeanor Records

Felony and misdemeanor records in Wyoming document criminal convictions at these levels, including the nature of the crime, court proceedings, and outcomes. Felony records involve more serious crimes, while misdemeanors are for less severe offenses. These records can be accessed through the Wyoming court system or the Division of Criminal Investigation. For detailed information and records requests, you can visit the Wyoming Court System website.

Parole Records

Parole records in Wyoming detail the release of inmates from prison under specific conditions before the end of their sentence. These records include information about the parolee, the terms of their parole, and compliance with parole conditions. The Wyoming Board of Parole maintains these records, and more information can be obtained from their official website.

Probation Records

Probation records in Wyoming document the supervision of individuals sentenced to probation instead of, or in addition to, jail time. These records contain information about the probationer, the terms of probation, and compliance status. Access to probation records can be obtained through the Wyoming Department of Corrections or the respective court that issued the probation. The Wyoming Department of Corrections website provides additional information and access to these records.

Warrant Search

A warrant search in Wyoming involves checking for active arrest warrants issued by courts. These warrants authorize law enforcement to arrest the individual named in the warrant. Public warrant searches can be conducted through local law enforcement agencies or online databases.

Inmate And Jail Records

Inmate and jail records in Wyoming provide information about individuals incarcerated in state or county correctional facilities. These records include inmate personal details, booking information, charges, and incarceration status. The Wyoming Department of Corrections manages state inmate records, which can be accessed through the Inmate Locator tool on their website. Local jail records can be obtained through the relevant county sheriff's office.

What you can find

In Wyoming, inmate and jail records provide comprehensive information about individuals who are currently incarcerated or have been detained in state or county correctional facilities. These records typically include the following details:

  • Personal Information: Inmate records contain personal details of the incarcerated individual, such as their full name, date of birth, physical description (including height, weight, gender, and race), and sometimes a photograph.
  • Inmate Identification Number: Each inmate is assigned a unique identification number, which is used to track their records and status within the correctional system.
  • Incarceration Details: The records detail when and where the individual was incarcerated, including the date of incarceration, the facility where they are held, and sometimes the specific unit or block within the facility.
  • Criminal Charges: Information about the specific charges for which the inmate was convicted or is being held. This includes the nature of the offense, such as whether it’s a felony or misdemeanor, and any relevant case or docket numbers.
  • Sentence Information: Details about the sentence imposed, if the individual is convicted. This can include the length of the sentence, the start date, and any parole eligibility or release dates.
  • Bail/Bond Information: If applicable, the records may include information about bail or bond amounts and whether they have been posted.
  • Custody Status: Current custody status, which may include information about whether the inmate is in general population, solitary confinement, or in a specialized unit (like for mental health treatment).
  • Behavioral Records: Some records may include information about the inmate’s behavior while incarcerated, including participation in rehabilitation programs, any disciplinary actions, or commendations.
  • Release Date: If applicable, the projected release date of the inmate, which could be subject to change based on various factors, including behavior or legal developments.
  • Court Information: Details about the court that handled the inmate’s case, including court dates and outcomes of hearings or trials.

How to Perform an Inmate Search in Wyoming?

Performing an inmate search in Wyoming is a straightforward process, primarily conducted online. Here’s how you can do it:

  • Visit the Wyoming Department of Corrections (WDOC) Website: Start by going to the WDOC’s official website. They provide various resources and tools for locating inmates within the state correctional system.
  • Use the Inmate Locator Tool: The WDOC website features an Inmate Locator tool. This tool allows you to search for inmates by name or inmate number.
  • Enter Search Details: Input the required details into the search tool. At a minimum, this usually involves the inmate’s last name, but providing more information (like the first name or inmate number) can help narrow down the search results.
  • Review the Results: Once you submit your search, the tool will display a list of inmates matching your search criteria. This list will typically include the inmate’s full name, inmate ID number, current facility, and possibly other details such as age or date of birth.
  • Click on the Inmate’s Name for More Information: For more detailed information about a specific inmate, click on their name. This should provide additional details about their incarceration, including the offense, sentence length, and projected release date.
  • Contact the Facility for More Information: If you need more specific information or if the inmate cannot be found through the online tool, you can contact the facility where the inmate is believed to be housed directly. Contact details for each facility are available on the WDOC website.
  • County Jails: For inmates in county jails (typically those who are awaiting trial or serving short sentences), you should visit the respective county jail’s website or contact the jail directly. Each county in Wyoming manages its own jail records.
  • Comply With Privacy and Security Regulations: Remember that while most inmate information is public, certain details might be restricted for privacy and security reasons.

Can I look up mugshots in Wyoming?

Yes, you can look up mugshots in Wyoming, but there are certain conditions and limitations to be aware of. Mugshots, which are photographs taken during the booking process after an individual is arrested, are generally considered part of the public record. Here’s how you can access them:

  • Sheriff’s Office or Police Department: Mugshots are typically available from the local sheriff’s office or police department that made the arrest. You can contact these offices directly or visit their websites to see if they provide an online database of arrestees and their mugshots.
  • Online Inmate Locators: Some jails or correctional facilities in Wyoming may provide online inmate locators that include mugshots. These can usually be accessed through the respective county’s official website.
  • Public Record Websites: There are also third-party public record websites that compile and provide mugshots; however, these may not always be up-to-date or accurate.
  • Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) Request: If the mugshot is not readily available, you might be able to request it through a FOIA request to the relevant law enforcement agency. This process can vary in terms of response time and requirements.
  • Privacy and Legal Considerations: Be aware that while mugshots are public records, there are ethical and legal considerations around their use, especially for commercial purposes or in ways that might infringe on the rights or privacy of individuals.

Wyoming Arrest Records

Wyoming arrest records are official documents that detail the apprehension or detention of an individual by law enforcement authorities in Wyoming. These records are a key part of the criminal justice process and contain various pieces of information related to the arrest.

What Do These Records Contain:

Typically, a Wyoming arrest record will include the following:

  • Personal Information: The record usually contains the full name of the individual arrested, along with other identifying information such as date of birth, physical description (height, weight, hair and eye color, etc.), and sometimes a photograph or mugshot.
  • Arrest Details: This includes the date, time, and location of the arrest. It also specifies the law enforcement agency that made the arrest, and the name of the arresting officer(s), if available.
  • Charges: The specific charges or allegations that led to the arrest are detailed in the record. This could include information about whether the charges are misdemeanors, felonies, or other types of offenses.
  • Booking Information: After an arrest, the individual is usually booked into a jail or detention center. The record includes details of this booking process, such as the booking number and the facility where the individual was held.
  • Bail/Bond Information: If bail was set or a bond was posted for the release of the individual, this information is typically included in the arrest record.
  • Case or Court Information: Arrest records may contain information about any court cases related to the arrest, including case numbers and the name of the court handling the case.
  • Fingerprint Information: Arrest records often include the fingerprints of the arrested individual, which are used for identification and cross-referencing with other records.

Wyoming Property and Asset Records Online

Finding property and asset records online in Wyoming can be achieved through a few different channels. Primarily, the Wyoming Department of Revenue’s Property Tax Division is a key resource. They maintain records related to property assessments, valuations, and taxes. You can access these records by visiting their website, which provides resources and tools for property searches. Additionally, county assessor’s offices in Wyoming also maintain property records, and many counties offer online databases where you can search for property information based on the owner’s name, address, or parcel number. These databases often include details such as property valuations, tax history, and property descriptions.

Unclaimed Properties in Wyoming

For unclaimed properties in Wyoming, the State Treasurer’s Office oversees the Unclaimed Property Division. This division is responsible for holding unclaimed or abandoned properties, including financial assets like bank accounts, stocks, and uncashed checks. If you believe you have unclaimed property in Wyoming, you can search for it through the State Treasurer’s official website. This online search tool allows individuals to search for their name or business name to identify any unclaimed assets that may belong to them. If a match is found, the website provides instructions on how to claim the property, which typically involves verifying your identity and providing documentation proving your right to the property. The process is user-friendly and designed to help rightful owners reclaim their assets.

Driving Records

To find driving records in Wyoming, you can request your record through the Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT). These records, also known as Motor Vehicle Records (MVRs), can be requested online via the WYDOT website, which provides a convenient and quick way to access your driving history. Alternatively, you can make the request in person at a local WYDOT office or by mailing a completed request form to the department. The driving record will include your driving history, any traffic violations, accidents, license suspensions, and other driving-related information, and there may be a fee for obtaining a copy of your record. For detailed information and to request a record, visit the WYDOT Driver Services website.

Civil Driving Infractions

In Wyoming, civil driving infractions are non-criminal traffic offenses that typically result in fines and points on a driver’s license but do not carry jail time. These infractions are considered less severe than criminal traffic violations, such as driving under the influence (DUI). Common civil driving infractions in Wyoming include:

  • Speeding: Driving above the posted speed limit or too fast for conditions.
  • Failure to Stop or Yield: Not stopping at a stop sign or red light, or failing to yield the right-of-way when required.
  • Seat Belt Violations: Not wearing a seat belt or failing to ensure passengers are properly restrained.
  • Equipment Violations: Driving a vehicle with faulty equipment, such as broken lights, mirrors, or brakes.

Wyoming White Pages - Find People, Addresses, and Other Non-Official Information

Address Search ​

Conducting an address search in Wyoming can provide valuable information about a specific property or location within the state. This can include details such as property owner information, property value, tax history, and zoning information. Address searches are commonly conducted through county assessor’s websites, where you can enter a street address to access public records associated with that property. Additionally, online real estate platforms and GIS (Geographic Information System) tools provided by some Wyoming counties can offer detailed property information and mapping data based on the address.

People Search​

People search in Wyoming is a process used to locate information about individuals residing in or associated with the state. This can include contact details, address history, public records, and sometimes background information. Such searches are often conducted through online directories, social media platforms, and public record databases. Additionally, the Wyoming state government and various county offices provide access to certain public records, such as voter registration, property ownership, and court records, which can be useful in a people search.

Can I Search By a Phone Number and Identify The Owner?

Yes, you can search by a phone number to identify the owner in Wyoming, as well as in most other places. This is typically done through a process called reverse phone lookup.

License Plate Lookup in Wyoming

In Wyoming, performing a license plate lookup to obtain information about a vehicle or its owner involves certain restrictions and guidelines to protect individual privacy. Here’s how you can do a license plate lookup:

  • Law Enforcement and Official Use: License plate lookups are primarily used by law enforcement for official purposes. If you have a legitimate reason (related to a legal or safety concern), you can contact local law enforcement and provide them with the license plate number.
  • Wyoming Department of Transportation (WYDOT): For specific purposes, such as verifying the status of a vehicle registration or reporting a vehicle with expired tags, you might be able to request information through WYDOT. However, personal information about the vehicle owner is protected and not publicly accessible.
  • Private Investigator: For matters that require detailed information from a license plate lookup, hiring a licensed private investigator might be an option. Private investigators have access to certain databases and can legally obtain information, provided the investigation complies with legal standards.
  • Online Services: There are online services offering license plate lookups, claiming to provide vehicle history reports or owner information. Be cautious with these services, as they may not always provide accurate or legally obtained information. In many cases, they can only provide vehicle information such as make, model, and year, rather than personal details about the owner.
  • DMV Requests: In some instances, for official or court-ordered reasons, you might be able to request information from the Wyoming DMV. Such requests typically require a valid reason and adherence to the DMV’s privacy policies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who and why can request public records?

In Wyoming, any member of the public can request access to public records, regardless of their residency or citizenship status.

Are there fees associated with requesting public records?

Yes, while accessing public records in Wyoming is generally free, there may be fees for copying, printing, or extensive staff time required to fulfill a request.

Are public records Free to access?

Accessing public records in Wyoming is usually free, but fees may apply for physical copies, special formats, or extensive research and retrieval efforts.

What is the response time for public records requests?

Wyoming law requires that public records requests be responded to within a “reasonable” time frame, often interpreted as within 7 to 30 days, depending on the complexity of the request.

Can my request be rejected?

Yes, your request for public records in Wyoming can be rejected if the records are confidential, exempt under law, or if the request is overly broad or burdensome.

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