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News Release
avoid paying Excess fees for your records
Clerk Issues Warning About Companies Charging More Than They Should
WEST PALM BEACH, FL (November 4, 2009) – Palm Beach County Clerk & Comptroller Sharon Bock is urging residents to be wary of solicitations from private companies possibly charging too much for copies of records. The effort, which appears to be resurfacing after about a year hiatus, comes in the form of an official-looking letter advertising the importance of citizens having certified copies of their records, such as property deeds.
“In the past, some residents have paid for the services of these companies and never received their certified documents,” said Clerk Bock. “It’s also important for the public to know that copies of these records can often be obtained from our office for a few dollars or free—not the excessive $40 to $60 these companies charge.”
So far, there have been no reports of solicitations here in Palm Beach County. However, the Collier County Clerk says residents recently received letters from Florida Record Retrieval, Inc., a company based in Plantation. “Historically, if the offer appears in one part of Florida, we’ll see it here too,” said Clerk Bock.
Copies of deeds, mortgages, liens, courts judgments, marriage licenses and other public records are available from the Clerk & Comptroller’s office for $1 per page and can be certified for an additional $2. Uncertified copies may be downloaded and printed for free by using the Official Records search on this Web site.
As the County Recorder and custodian of legal records, the Clerk maintains and ensures the integrity of the Official Record Books of Palm Beach County dating back to 1909. For more information on receiving copies of your public records, please contact the Records Services Center at (561) 355-2976.
The Florida Constitution established the independent office of the Clerk & Comptroller as a public trustee, responsible for safeguarding public records and public funds. Clerk Sharon Bock is directly elected by and accountable to Palm Beach County residents. In addition to the roles of Clerk of the Circuit Court, County Recorder and Clerk of the Board of County Commissioners, the Clerk & Comptroller is the Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Auditor for Palm Beach County.
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