Public Records

AI Summary

The Cuyahoga County Clerk of Courts has established a public records policy affirming that openness promotes better-informed citizens and better government, with strict adherence to Ohio's Public Records Law and applicable federal exemptions. Records are defined broadly to include all documents in any format created or received by the office that document its organization, functions, policies, decisions, procedures, operations, or activities, and are public unless specifically exempt under state or federal law. Cheryl Denton, located at the 2nd floor Justice Center, 1200 Ontario Street, Cleveland, Ohio, and reachable at cedenton@cuyahogacounty.gov, is designated as the public records manager responsible for making records readily available for inspection and copying. Record requests need only identify the records with sufficient clarity for retrieval and review; requesters are not required to submit written requests, provide their identity, or disclose the intended use of records, except when such information would enhance the office's ability to locate and deliver the requested materials. The office will contact requesters for clarification if the requested records are not clearly identified and will assist in revising requests by explaining how records are organized and maintained.