illinois public records search guide for beginners

What it covers

An Illinois public records search helps you locate information held by state and local agencies, from court dockets to property deeds. Most records are open by law, though some details are redacted to protect privacy. Results often live at county offices, so expect to look both statewide and locally.

Common record types

• Court records: civil, criminal, and traffic case lookups.
• Property records: deeds, assessments, and tax histories.
• Vital records: birth, death, marriage; certified copies require proof and fees.
• Business and licenses: corporations, UCC filings, professional licenses.
• Police and FOIA: incident logs and agency reports, when releasable.

How to start

Begin by defining the person, place, or case you need. Search the relevant agency website first, then the county clerk, recorder, or circuit court. If a record is not online, submit a clear Freedom of Information Act request describing dates, names, and departments.

1. Confirm the jurisdiction and office.
2. Use exact names, dates, and parcel or case numbers.
3. Review fees, copy limits, and processing times.
4. Verify findings against multiple sources before relying on them.

This guide is informational, not legal advice.