Understanding Discovery Requests vs. Public Records Requests

Discovery Requests are for records related to pending municipal court cases and may be submitted only by the defendant or their attorney. This differs from a Public Records Request (PRR), which is used to obtain general public records from the City. See below for more information on PRR.

Discovery Requests

Defendants may submit Discovery Requests for specific evidence or records related to their own pending municipal court cases. The City Attorney’s Office processes discovery requests differently if the defendant is self-represented or represented by an attorney.

• Self-Represented Defendants: Self-represented defendants may use the online Discovery Request Form to request records related to their municipal court cases. This form should not be used by attorneys. 

• Represented Defendants: Your attorney must request discovery directly from the City Attorney's Office via letter or email.

Public Records Requests

Public Records Requests (PRR) are requests are for anyone seeking access to public documents and records, including Municipal Court records or Salem Police Department records related to municipal court cases that have reached court disposition (e.g., judgment, dismissal). Submit a Public Records Request through the City of Salem’s Public Records portal.  Records related to cases which are still being adjudicated are not eligible to be released, unless they qualify as discovery.

Questions

 If you are unsure which process to use, please contact our office for assistance.

City Attorney’s Office
503-588-6003
legal@cityofsalem.net