Public Records FAQ

Common questions regarding public records requests:

What can I request with a public records request/what are public records?

A public record is any record containing information relating to university business, which is prepared, generated, used, or retained by the school. This includes (but is not limited to) electronic media, paper documents, emails, microfilm audiotapes, videotapes, and disks (CDs/DVDs). A ideal public records request is a request for a specific and identifiable public document(s). You do not have to identify the record you want with exact precision, but as much detail as you can provide will be helpful. 

What happens to my request after I submit it?

It enters a ticketing queue into the office of Legal Counsel, directly managed by the public records custodian. It's then assessed, and the custodian gathers the records from the relevant offices and departments across campus. Records are reviewed for privacy and confidentialty before release.

How long does this take?

Singular, readily-identifiable and producable records will generally be process within 5 business days. Requests which require a collection process and multiple files may be extended in their response window (from 90 days and up to six months to acquire, review and provide relevant information, responded to according to the order of receipt), in which case you can anticipate updates in your request ticket. In instances involving misdirected requests that are re-routed, the response time will commence on the date that the request is received by our office.

How can I follow up with questions on my public records request?

You may send messages within this platform--these are direct to our team. You may also call into the public records line at 406-243-4719, or email [email protected].

How are invoices managed and handled?

We are set up to accept invoice payments via check (make checks to the "UM Office of Legal Counsel"), or via credit card over the phone at 406-243-4742. Further information about credit card payments will be added here when we have that system online (spring 2026).