Connecticut Public Records

Some of the first European settlers in Connecticut date a back to the early 1600s. Some of the most historic records in America are associated with this state. Connecticut is an open records state, although birth records are restricted. Connecticut birth records, death and marriage records can be requested from the Department of Public Health, although a faster turnaround time dictates ordering copies from the Town Clerk where the event took place. Also included in Connecticut public records are court and divorce records. These may be requested through the local Superior Court that handled the case.  Alternatively, you can view Connecticut court records online through the public web access at the State Judicial Branch website. The Connecticut State Police handles inquiries for CT criminal records, which may be requested by any individual. To access historical Connecticut public records, including CT cemetery records, military and vital records and obituaries, visit the State Library in Hartford.

About Connecticut Public Records

Connecticut makes most of its records available to the public, which makes it easier for those conducting family history research to locate and obtain records. The exception is Connecticut birth records, which are restricted. After 100 years, however, these become Connecticut public records. Prior to this time period, only the person of record, an immediate family member or legal representative may request them. Connecticut death records and marriage records are unrestricted, and any individual may request these. Although the state Department of Public Health maintains a state repository of birth, death and marriage records, it’s faster to order copies from the Town Clerk that recorded the event. Also, Town Clerks have more historic records, like those prior to 1897.

Connecticut divorce records are not maintained by the Department of Public Health, but by the Superior Court system. These records are also unrestricted and may be viewed at the local Superior Court that handled the case.

Accessing Connecticut Gov Public Records

The Connecticut Judicial Branch offers an online public access case look-up tool that is free. It allows anyone to search civil, criminal and family court records in the state. The search can be narrowed down by case type, case number and location. If you know the county where the case occurred, search Connecticut court records only for that county. This is also a way to conduct a statewide Connecticut criminal records search. Simply narrow the case type to criminal and enter a name. Any criminal court records associated will appear, unless too old to be in the online system.

Accessing Connecticut gov public records this way is free, unlike requesting a criminal record search through the State Police. This takes time as a mailed request is the only form accepted. Only conviction information will be included. Criminal court records will list any association, whether pending or without conviction.

Search Public Records in Connecticut

For those anxious to perform genealogy research, a visit to the State Library in Hartford is definitely in order. However, prior to a visit, familiarize yourself with the various types of Connecticut free public records available on their website. Detailed descriptions breakdown most of their extensive records collections, with some digitized and others available through a searchable online index.

To search public records for Connecticut means to search various military records, Connecticut cemetery records, obituaries, vital records and historic court records like the colonial witchcraft trials. Connecticut military records include those for the War of 1812, Revolutionary War, Civil War and Mexican War, to name a few. There is no charge to visit the library, and it’s possible to ask questions of the librarians by email, phone or instant message prior to your visit.