Minnesota Court Records

Minnesota Public Records /Minnesota Court Records

Are Court Records Public in Minnesota?

Yes, court records are public in Minnesota. According to the Minnesota Public Records Act, court records are considered public records and are accessible to the public. This means that anyone can request and obtain court records in Minnesota, including court dockets, files, transcripts, and case lookups and searches.

What is Included in Court Record in Minnesota?

Minnesota court records include a variety of information related to court proceedings and cases. These records typically include:

Court Filings: Court filings refer to the documents and pleadings submitted by parties involved in a case. These can include complaints, petitions, motions, and other legal documents.
Dockets: Dockets provide a chronological list of events and actions taken in a case. They include information such as court dates, scheduled hearings, and the names of the parties involved.
Case Files: Case files contain all the documents and evidence related to a specific case. This can include witness statements, police reports, expert opinions, and any other relevant materials.
Transcripts: Transcripts are written records of court proceedings, including hearings, trials, and oral arguments. They provide a detailed account of what was said during these proceedings.
Judgments and Orders: Judgments and orders are the final decisions or rulings made by the court in a case. They outline the outcome of the case and any instructions or requirements for the parties involved.
Sentencing and Rulings: Court records also include information about sentencing and rulings in criminal cases. This includes details about the charges, the verdict, and the penalties imposed.

How to Find Court Records in Minnesota in 2023

To obtain court records in Minnesota, there are several methods you can use. Here are some options:

Online: Many court records in Minnesota are available online through the official website of the Minnesota Judicial Branch. You can access court records by visiting their website and using their online search tools. These tools allow you to search for court records by case number, party name, or other relevant information.
In-Person: If the court records you are looking for are not available online, you can visit the courthouse where the case was heard and request the records in person. You will need to provide the necessary information, such as the case number or the names of the parties involved, to help the court staff locate the records.
Public Access Terminals: Some courthouses in Minnesota have public access terminals where you can search for and view court records. These terminals are usually available in the courthouse's public area and allow you to access the court's electronic database of records.
Request by Mail: If you are unable to visit the courthouse in person, you can also request court records by mail. You will need to send a written request to the courthouse, including the necessary information to identify the records you are seeking. Be sure to include a self-addressed stamped envelope for the court to send the records back to you.

It's important to note that not all court records may be available online or accessible to the public. Some records may be sealed or restricted due to privacy concerns or legal restrictions. In such cases, you may need to contact the court directly to inquire about accessing those specific records.

Lookup Court Records in Minnesota

Here are some links to websites where you can lookup court records in Minnesota:

Please note that the availability of court records may vary depending on the specific county and case. It is recommended to visit the respective websites or contact the courts directly for the most accurate and up-to-date information.