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1. How do I make a request?

Requests must be in writing according to the Public Information Act.  This benefits and protects you as the requester. An online form is available for your convenience through the link on the Open Records page.  But any written request will be accepted.

2. What information can I request?

You may request any court record in the custody of the court’s record division. This will include any records for cases adjudicated at the Garland Municipal Court as well as court records signed by a Garland Municipal judge in their capacity as a judge or magistrate for the City of Garland. There are some protected records such as judicial notes that are not subject to the Public Information Act that will not be available. In addition any records that are ordered sealed by court order are not subject to public review without a court order. Court records relating to juveniles are only available on a limited basis to the juvenile defendant, their legal guardian(s)/parents, their spouse, their legal counsel representing them on their case and law enforcement agencies.

3. How soon will I receive my requested records?

While the court records department makes every effort to make records available as soon as possible, it can take up to 10 business days to receive your records.  For complex or large results it may take longer.  The court will contact you within 10 business days of your request in writing to inform you of the estimated time of delivery if your request cannot be accomplished within 10 working days.

4. How much will my records cost?

Certified court records cost $.10 per page.  Additional fees include: 

(A) Diskette—$1;

(B) Magnetic tape—actual cost

(C) Data cartridge—actual cost

(D) Tape cartridge—actual cost

(E) Rewritable CD (CD-RW)—$1

(F) Non-rewritable CD (CD-R)—$1

(G) Digital video disc (DVD)—$3

(H) JAZ drive—actual cost

(I) Other electronic media—actual cost

(J) VHS video cassette—$2.50

(K) Audio cassette—$1

(L) Preparation and assembly of records more than 50 pages will incur an additional cost of $18.75 per hour for personnel time.

5. Why does the City Attorney's Office receive a copy of my request?

In some cases the City Attorney’s office receives a copy of certain requests.  This is standard procedure to ensure proper compliance with the law under the Public Information Act.