While trying to locate certain types of Pennsylvania public records, you might have more luck by narrowing down the search to specific counties. This makes the search quicker and easier if you do not have to look through documentation for the entire state. So, for example, trying to track down Lehigh county death records, Lehigh county criminal records or other Lehigh county records would be easier than looking through all of Pennsylvania.

At one time, it was much more complicated to retrieve Lehigh county public records, even with it narrowed down to the county. This was partly because you would have to travel to obtain this type of documentation since it wasn’t yet available to view or request online. The other reason it was more difficult to gain access to these types of documents was that materials were not accessible by the general public.

A Pennsylvania state law, called the “Right to Know” law, now makes it possible for the public to get a hold of certain documentation. This includes material like Lehigh county court records, Lehigh county birth records or other types of vital records and documentation.

About the “Right to Know” Law

This law became a Pennsylvania state law that became effective February 14, 2008. This law enables the public to have access to materials such as Lehigh county public records. Some restrictions do apply, but there are plenty of documentation and materials one can gain access to. The “Right to Know” law also makes it possible for people to petition in a court of law if they feel they have been denied access to public records they have requested.

The “Right to Know” Law means that the public, as well as the media, has the right to obtain records. This includes Lehigh County criminal records, birth records and similar items. In some cases it may also include letters, tapes, books, films or other resources.

Limitations to the Law

There are many Lehigh county public records you can gain access to, but there are some things to keep in mind. For instance, documents that contain social security numbers or driver’s license numbers cannot be viewed. Materials that contain the home addresses of figures including judges or law enforcement agents are also still restricted. Also, things like DNA records are not available to the general public. It is a good idea to check to see if the material you are trying to locate is available to the general public or not before trying to locate it.

To get your copy of certain types of public records for the state of Pennsylvania, you can use online methods or still handle it in person. The Pennsylvania Office of Open Records and the Lehigh county courthouse are both places to try. Take advantage of the Pennsylvania “Right to Know” Law and obtain your Lehigh County Public Records.