Public Records Search

Government Records Massachusetts: Where to Obtain Government Records for the State of Massachusetts?You can obtain government records for the State of Massachusetts from the Office of the Secretary of the Commonwealth. If you would like to know more, then check out the M.G.L. c. 66, para/section 1. It is also possible to purchase the official version. If you are only looking for a convenient way to obtain public records, then check 950 CMR 32. 00 Public Record Access. Alternatively, you can also visit the Massachusetts Government website to download the public record access file.

 

Records Access Officer

From the first of January, 2017, you will need, if you want to check the updated Public Records Law, to ensure that the agency and municipality have designated a Records Access Officer. This official helps you obtain public records. So, make sure you place a request with this official.

 

Massachusetts Division

Keep in mind that the government of Massachusetts division is not a repository for government records. All they do is maintain records in the Division that are relevant to their business operations. So, if you want to obtain government records for the State of Massachusetts, you will need to get in touch directly with the entity that created or received them.

Verbal and Written Requests

It is also possible to make a verbal request in person. However, a better option is to make a written request so that all confusion is avoided. When placing a written request, you need to file your appeal with the Supervisor of Records. When requesting the Records Access Officer, you do not have to follow any specific format. Be sure to visit the government of Massachusetts website to find out what you need to include in your written request.

Did Not Get a Satisfactory Response?

What happens when you do not receive a satisfactory response? In that case, appeal to the Supervisor of Records. Before doing so, check the Secretary of the Commonwealth’s Public Records Division’s website. In case your request was rejected, you can file an appeal regarding Denial of Access to Public Records in Massachusetts. Another option available to you is to seek judicial review in which case you need to commence a civil action in superior court under G.L. c 66 para/section 10A clause 1.

Denial of your request means you will have to appeal to the Supervisor of Records. The custodian of records must provide you with the record within 10 business days. In case the officer does not provide you with the record in this time, you can file an appeal but no later than ninety calendar days of the request.


Petition of Appeal

Your petition of an appeal must be sent to the Supervisor of Records and your appeal must contain the following information:
1. The request in writing
2. The response in writing, if any
3. A letter in brief that spells out your reason for appeal.

This information can be mailed, faxed, or emailed. For more information about how to get in touch with the relevant official, check out the CONTACT US tab on the government website. Besides, you need to also provide a copy of your appeal petition and send this to the records custodian.

Be sure to thoroughly understand the appeals process. For more on this, check out 950 CMR 32.08 clause 1. You can also check the Guide that the government of Massachusetts has created and which you can find on their website.

If you are still unsure about making your appeal or filing it, you can check out 950 CMR 32. 08 clauses 1 or you may check out the Secretary of the Commonwealth’s Public Records Division publication called a Guide to the
Massachusetts Public Record Law which is available as a PDF file.

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