milwaukee wisconsin public records: a beginner’s guide to finding what you need

What counts as a public record

In Milwaukee, many government-held documents are available under Wisconsin’s Open Records Law. Common examples include court files, property deeds, police incident logs, business filings, and city meeting minutes. Some sensitive details may be redacted, and certain records require identification or fees for copies.

Where to look

City and County sources

The City Clerk maintains council agendas and licenses, while the Milwaukee County offices handle circuit court cases, probate, and land records. Birth, death, and marriage certificates are kept by the Register of Deeds; certified copies usually require a request form.

How to request

You can make a written request that describes records clearly by date, name, case number, parcel, or address. Be concise; agencies must respond “as soon as practicable,” but timeframes vary with volume and confidentiality review.

• Identify the correct office or custodian
• Narrow the scope to dates or subjects
• Ask for inspection first to reduce costs
• Note statutory fees for copies and certification
• Follow up politely and document communications

If denied, you may seek a written explanation and consider an administrative review or court action to enforce access rights.