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Lubbock County Public Records

What Is Public Records in The Lubbock County?

Public records in Lubbock County are official documents and information maintained by county government offices that are accessible to the public under Texas law. These records include court documents, property records, marriage licenses, birth and death certificates, tax records, and various other official documents created or maintained by county departments.

The Lubbock County Clerk's Office is the primary custodian of many public records, including property deeds, marriage licenses, and court records. Lubbock County Clerk's Office, 916 Main Street, Suite 401, Lubbock, TX 79401

These records are maintained to ensure transparency in government operations and to provide citizens with access to important information that may affect their lives, property, or legal rights.

Is Lubbock County an Open Records County?

Yes, Lubbock County is an open records county, operating under the Texas Public Information Act (formerly known as the Open Records Act). This law guarantees citizens the right to access government records at all government levels in Texas, including county records.

The Texas Public Information Act is enforced by the Office of the Attorney General. Office of the Attorney General, Open Records Division, P.O. Box 12548, Austin, TX 78711-2548

Lubbock County government offices are required to provide requested public information promptly, typically within 10 business days of receiving a request, unless specific exceptions apply. The City of Lubbock also complies with these requirements. City of Lubbock, 1625 13th Street, Lubbock, TX 79401

How Do I Find Public Records in Lubbock County in 2025

Finding public records in Lubbock County in 2025 can be accomplished through several methods:

  1. Online Access: Lubbock County offers online access to many public records through their official website. Court records can be accessed through the county's online portal, and property records are available through the County Clerk's electronic record system.

  2. In-Person Requests: Visit the appropriate county office to request records in person:

    • For court records: Lubbock County District Clerk, 904 Broadway, Lubbock, TX 79401
    • For property records, marriage licenses, and other county clerk records: Lubbock County Clerk's Office, 916 Main Street, Suite 401, Lubbock, TX 79401
    • For tax records: Lubbock Central Appraisal District, 2109 Avenue Q, Lubbock, TX 79411

  3. Written Requests: Submit a written request to the relevant department specifying the records you need.

  4. Email or Online Form: Many departments accept requests via email or through online submission forms available on the county website.

For specialized records, contact the specific department that maintains them, such as the Sheriff's Office for certain criminal records or the Health Department for vital records.

How Much Does It Cost To Get Public Records In Lubbock County?

The cost to obtain public records in Lubbock County varies depending on the type of record and the format requested:

  1. Standard Fees:

    • Paper copies: Generally $0.10 to $0.50 per page
    • Certified copies: Additional $1.00 to $5.00 per document
    • Electronic records: May have reduced fees compared to paper copies

  2. Specific Document Fees:

    • Birth certificates: $23 for the first copy, $3 for each additional copy
    • Death certificates: $21 for the first copy, $4 for each additional copy
    • Marriage licenses: $82 to issue, $8-$15 for copies
    • Property records: Varies by document size and certification requirements

  3. Research Fees: If your request requires extensive staff time to locate or prepare records, additional labor charges may apply, typically $15-$40 per hour.

The county is required to provide a cost estimate if the total will exceed $40. Payment is typically required before records are released.

Does Lubbock County Have Free Public Records?

Lubbock County does offer some public records at no cost:

  1. Online Access: Many records can be viewed for free through the county's online portals:

    • Court case information through the online court records system
    • Basic property ownership information through the appraisal district website
    • County Commissioner's Court agendas and minutes

  2. In-Person Viewing: You can view many public records at no cost if you visit the appropriate county office in person. Lubbock County Courthouse, 904 Broadway, Lubbock, TX 79401

  3. Public Terminals: Free public access terminals are available at several county offices, including the County Clerk's Office and the District Clerk's Office.

While viewing these records may be free, obtaining copies (either physical or electronic) typically incurs the standard fees mentioned in the previous section.

Who Can Request Public Records In Lubbock County?

Under the Texas Public Information Act, virtually anyone can request public records in Lubbock County:

  1. Texas Residents: All Texas residents have full rights to request public information.

  2. Non-Texas Residents: People from other states or countries can also request public records from Lubbock County.

  3. Organizations: Businesses, media outlets, non-profit organizations, and other entities can request public records.

  4. No Justification Required: Requesters do not need to explain why they want the information or how they plan to use it.

  5. Anonymous Requests: While possible, anonymous requests may be more difficult to process if clarification is needed.

The only limitations are on inmates in correctional facilities, who have certain restrictions on the types of records they can request.

What Records Are Confidential In Lubbock County?

Despite Lubbock County's commitment to transparency, certain records remain confidential under Texas law:

  1. Personal Information:

    • Social Security numbers
    • Driver's license numbers
    • Personal financial information
    • Medical and health information protected under HIPAA

  2. Juvenile Records: Most juvenile court and criminal records are confidential.

  3. Certain Criminal Investigation Records: Active investigations or information that would interfere with law enforcement.

  4. Attorney-Client Privileged Information: Communications between the county and its legal counsel.

  5. Certain Personnel Records: Employee evaluations, personal family information, and other private employee data.

  6. Victim Information: Details about victims of crimes, particularly in cases involving sexual assault or family violence.

  7. Critical Infrastructure Information: Details about security systems, infrastructure vulnerabilities, or emergency response plans.

  8. Sealed Court Records: Records that have been sealed by court order.

  9. Adoption Records: These remain confidential to protect the privacy of all parties involved.

The Lubbock County Privacy Office oversees compliance with privacy regulations. Lubbock County Privacy Office, 916 Main Street, Lubbock, TX 79401

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