News Release
AVOID PAYING EXCESS FEES FOR PUBLIC RECORDS
Be wary of private companies overcharging for copies of deeds, other documents
WEST PALM BEACH, FL (June 30, 2010) – Clerk & Comptroller Sharon Bock is advising Palm Beach County residents to be wary of private companies trying to sell public records that can be easily obtained in a trip to the courthouse.
These companies send official-looking letters to homeowners, advertising the importance of having certified copies of records such as property deeds. Often, these companies charge as much as $60 for documents that are available from the Clerk’s office for $1 per page. Certified documents cost an additional $2.
Such companies have targeted Palm Beach County residents in the past. Citizens recently reported to the Clerk’s office that they’ve received letters from Florida Record Retrieval, Inc., which is based in Plantation.
“Years ago, before the Internet, these companies sold a convenience. Today, however, this information is in the public domain and easily accessible to anyone with a computer,” Clerk Bock said. “The high cost of this convenience is no longer reasonable in today's world.”
Copies of deeds, mortgages, liens, court judgments, marriage licenses and other public records are available at the Clerk’s office. Uncertified copies may be downloaded and printed for free by using the Official Records search on the Clerk’s website, www.mypalmbeachclerk.com.
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 public records, 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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