Davidson County Public Records

What Is Public Records in The Davidson County?

Public records in Davidson County are official documents and information maintained by government agencies that are accessible to the public. These records include court documents, property records, marriage and divorce certificates, birth and death records, business licenses, and various other official documents.

The Davidson County government maintains these records through different departments such as the Circuit Court Clerk (501 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203), Register of Deeds (501 Broadway, Suite 501, Nashville, TN 37203), and Criminal Court Clerk (408 2nd Avenue North, Suite 2120, Nashville, TN 37201). These records serve as an important resource for transparency in government operations and provide citizens with access to important information.

Is Davidson County an Open Records County?

Yes, Davidson County is an open records county. In accordance with Tennessee's Public Records Act (T.C.A. § 10-7-503), Davidson County provides access to public records to all Tennessee citizens. The county has established procedures for requesting and accessing these records through various departments.

The Metropolitan Government of Nashville and Davidson County (1 Public Square, Nashville, TN 37201) maintains a public records policy that outlines how citizens can access these records. Each department within the county government has designated public records request coordinators who handle requests for their specific records.

How Do I Find Public Records in Davidson County in 2025

To find public records in Davidson County in 2025, you have several options:

1. Online Access: Many records are available through department-specific online portals:

   • Criminal Court records through the Public Case Search system
   • Property records through the Register of Deeds website
   • Civil cases through the Circuit Court Clerk's online system
   • Chancery Court cases through their public records search

2. In-Person Requests: Visit the specific department that maintains the records you need:

   • Circuit Court Clerk (501 Broadway, Nashville, TN 37203)
   • Register of Deeds (501 Broadway, Suite 501, Nashville, TN 37203)
   • Criminal Court Clerk (408 2nd Avenue North, Suite 2120, Nashville, TN 37201)
   • Chancery Court Clerk and Master (1 Public Square, Suite 308, Nashville, TN 37201)

3. Written Requests: Submit a public records request form to the appropriate department, either by mail or email.

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

The cost of obtaining public records in Davidson County varies depending on the type of record and the format requested:

• Standard copies: $0.15 per page for black and white copies
• Color copies: $0.50 per page
• Certified copies: Additional certification fees apply (typically $5-$15 per document)
• Research and retrieval fees: May apply for extensive searches (labor costs after the first hour)

The Davidson County Clerk's Office (700 2nd Ave. South, Suite 101, Nashville, TN 37210) and other departments follow the fee schedule established by Tennessee law and county ordinances. Some records may require additional fees for specialized services or expedited processing.

Does Davidson County Have Free Public Records?

Davidson County does offer some free public records access:

• Online searches through public portals are generally free for basic information
• The first hour of labor for records searches is typically provided at no cost
• Inspection of records in person is free (though copying fees still apply)
• Some basic record searches may be conducted without fees

The Davidson County Public Library (615 Church St, Nashville, TN 37219) also provides free access to certain public records databases for research purposes. Additionally, some departments may waive fees if the request is determined to be in the public interest or for research purposes.

Who Can Request Public Records In Davidson County?

Under Tennessee law, any Tennessee citizen has the right to request and access public records in Davidson County. This includes:

• Individual residents of Tennessee
• Tennessee-based businesses and organizations
• Media organizations operating in Tennessee
• Attorneys representing Tennessee citizens
• Government agencies and officials

The Tennessee Open Records Act specifically limits access to Tennessee citizens, and departments may require proof of Tennessee citizenship before processing requests. Non-citizens may not have the same legal right to access records, though some records may still be available through other means.

What Records Are Confidential In Davidson County?

Despite Davidson County's commitment to transparency, certain records remain confidential under state law:

• Medical records and protected health information
• Juvenile court records (with limited exceptions)
• Records related to ongoing criminal investigations
• Personnel records containing private information
• Records protected by attorney-client privilege
• Social Security numbers, bank account information, and other personal identifiers
• Records specifically exempted by state or federal law

The Davidson County Attorney's Office (108 Metropolitan Courthouse, Nashville, TN 37201) provides guidance to departments on confidentiality requirements. There are over 350 exemptions in Tennessee law that may apply to certain records, making them unavailable or requiring redaction before release.

Lookup Public Records in Davidson County

• Public Case Search - Criminal Court Clerk of Metropolitan Nashville and Davidson County - This site provides access to search case information, dockets, and reporting for criminal cases in Davidson County.

• Davidson County Register of Deeds - Nashville.gov - The official site for the Davidson County Register of Deeds, offering services related to recording and accessing property records.

• Public Records Information - Circuit Court Clerk - Nashville - Provides information on accessing public records from the Circuit Court Clerk's office, including policies and request forms.

• Public Records Search - Chancery Clerk and Master of Metropolitan Nashville & Davidson County - Offers a public records search for cases handled by the Chancery Clerk and Master, including access to case summaries and court orders.

• Public Records Policy Document - A PDF document detailing the public records policy for the Circuit Court Clerk's office, outlining access and request procedures.