marion county indiana public records: how to find courts, property, and vital documents

What counts as a public record

In Marion County, Indiana, residents can access court filings, property deeds, marriage licenses, and certain law-enforcement logs. Availability varies by agency and by whether the record contains protected personal data. Expect older items on microfilm and newer ones in searchable databases.

Where to search online vs in person

Online options include statewide court portals for case dockets, county recorder indexes for deeds, and assessor lookups for parcels. In person, the Clerk, Recorder, and Health Department counters provide certified copies and help with tricky requests.

Choosing the best route

If you need quick context, start online; for certified copies or sealed matters, go to the agency office. Fees, redactions, and turnaround times differ.

• Court cases: Search by name, cause number, or date; download dockets and calendars.
• Property records: Find deed books, transfers, and liens by address or owner.
• Vital records: Order birth, death, and marriage certificates with ID.
• Public safety: Request incident logs; arrests may have waiting periods.

Tip: bring exact names, dates, and parcel numbers, and review Indiana’s Access to Public Records Act for appeal rights.