champaign county public records guide and resources

What these records include

Whether you are tracing property history, verifying a court outcome, or locating a licensed business, Champaign County public records offer a transparent window into local government activity. Common files span civil and criminal dockets, deeds and plats, marriage and divorce filings, tax assessments, and meeting minutes.

• Court and case lookups for filings, calendars, and judgments.
• Land and property indexes, including transfers and liens.
• Vital records such as birth, death, and marriage certificates.

How to search and request

Start with the clerk, recorder, or assessor depending on the record type. Many indexes are searchable online; certified copies typically require an in-person or mailed request with a fee. Use precise names, parcel numbers, or case IDs to narrow results, and verify date ranges.

Practical tips

1. Confirm eligibility for restricted items protected by privacy laws.
2. Budget for fees related to searches, copies, and certification.
3. Document citations so follow-up requests are fast and accurate.

When in doubt, ask the office for guidance; staff can point you to the correct index or form.