Generate a legally proper California Public Records Act request in minutes. Free. No account needed.
The California Public Records Act (Gov. Code §7920 et seq.) gives every person the right to inspect and obtain copies of public records held by state and local agencies. You do not need to be a California resident or give a reason for your request.
Agencies must respond within 10 calendar days. They must justify any denial with specific legal exemptions. You can request fee waivers if disclosure serves the public interest. Improper denials can be challenged in court.
You will receive a written response within 10 days (agencies may extend by 14 more days for unusual circumstances). Records may be provided electronically. Some fees may apply for copies, but inspection is free.
Agencies must cite a specific exemption. You can appeal to the agency head, file a complaint with the courts, or contact the First Amendment Coalition (firstamendmentcoalition.org) for free assistance.
The agency needs a way to send the records to you. Under the CPRA, you are not required to state a reason for your request.
Review the letter below, then copy or print it. Send it via email or certified mail to the agency's records custodian.
Any person -- you do not need to be a California resident, a citizen, or a journalist. You do not need to give a reason for your request. Agencies cannot ask why you want the records.
Under Gov. Code §7922.535, the agency must determine whether to comply and notify you within 10 calendar days. They may extend this by up to 14 additional days in "unusual circumstances" -- but they must explain why in writing.
Since 2019, California law requires disclosure of police officer records involving shootings, use of force causing great bodily injury, confirmed dishonesty, and sexual assault. SB 16 (2022) expanded this to include all sustained misconduct findings. Agencies cannot claim these are confidential personnel records.
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The CPRA (Gov. Code §7920 et seq., formerly §6250) gives every person the right to inspect and copy records held by state and local government agencies in California. Police misconduct records (SB 1421/SB 16), court filings, DA office records, and sheriff-department data are all subject to disclosure.
Gov. Code §7922.535 requires an initial response within 10 calendar days. If they miss it, send a written follow-up (this generator produces one) and document the delay. Unjustified non-response can support a writ of mandate under §7923.000 — attorney fees are recoverable if you prevail.
Agencies may charge only the direct cost of duplication (typically 10-25¢ per page) — not staff time, redaction time, or search costs. Electronic records must be provided in the requested electronic format when feasible. If the agency tries to charge a "research fee", that's improper.