What exactly is document retrieval? We’re here to break it down for you.
Have you ever needed important vital records for a family member, such as a marriage record or death certificate? What about requesting a deed or title search for a new home you’re looking to buy? If so, you may already be somewhat familiar with document retrieval without even knowing it.
Document retrieval is important in many different situations and industries. We’re here to explain what document retrieval is, why you might need it, and how you can find all the documents you need.
What is Document Retrieval?
In basic terms, document retrieval is the act of searching for and obtaining a copy of a document associated with a public record.
While many counties throughout the United States provide digital databases of their records, document retrieval remains a complex field. Plus, some documents and areas still require a physical visit to the county courthouse where the records are kept.
What Does Document Retrieval Involve?
Depending on the type of document needed, document retrieval could involve:
- Navigating county courthouse records
- Visiting a county courthouse in person
- Working with courthouse personnel
- Finding the correct courthouse department to contact
- Sifting through years of data
- Searching through complicated online databases
As you could imagine, some documents are difficult to track down and online databases aren’t very easy to navigate. That’s why document retrieval specialists exist – they know exactly how to navigate local court systems and filter online databases to find what you’re looking for as quickly as possible.
At Blue Streak Docs, we’ve compiled a national team of document retrieval specialists who are capable of getting all the right documents as efficiently as possible. This means you won’t have to waste valuable time hunting down a deed from twenty years ago, or searching through years of civil court records.
What Types of Documents Can You Retrieve?
Document retrieval is used for many different kinds of documents, but they’re mainly needed within the real estate and legal industries.
We can provide virtually any type of real estate information needed on residential property throughout the United States. We’re also able to search through civil court records, both at the county and state level, to retrieve civil case files.
Here are some examples of the most common types of documents we retrieve for clients.
Mortgage information documents:
- Deeds of all types
- Property tax information
- Mortgages/Deeds of Trust
- Mortgage Assignments
- Mortgage Satisfactions
- Easements and restrictions
- CC&Rs
- Voluntary and involuntary liens
- Loan modifications
Civil court records related to:
- Foreclosures
- Divorces
- Death certificates
- Notices
- Complaints
- Pleadings
- Motion to dismiss
- Final judgments
- Certificates of service
- Interrogatories
- Original notes
When is Document Retrieval Needed?
Document retrieval is necessary for many different reasons, from legal matters to purchasing new property or just being a curious homeowner. Here are a few reasons why you might need document retrieval.
Informational Purposes
Legal and real estate professionals might need to obtain documents to learn more about a specific property or individual owner. This could be required during a real estate transaction, to move forward with foreclosure or bankruptcy, or to just uncover more information for other legal proceedings.
For example, a property title search reveals information that can be used for foreclosures, bankruptcy, and due diligence.
Document retrieval can also be used if an individual wants to know more information about residential property they own.
Requirements for Local & Foreign Governments
Certified document retrieval is used for more official purposes – they are essentially treated as the original document. Some states require a certified document, rather than a photocopy, for certain situations like financial transactions.
Also, foreign governments typically require certified copies of documents for items such as dual citizenship or other foreign affairs.
Obtaining certified documents is more difficult than getting a regular copy, or a plain copy. This is because it either requires visiting the local courthouse yourself or knowing exactly how to request the correct copy if you’re filling out a request form online.
Nationwide Document Retrieval Services
We understand document retrieval is a complex process, but many industries and decisions rely on it.
That’s why we’ve spent over a decade perfecting the process – we utilize advanced online document tracking technology, document retrieval experts, and an open line of communication so you’re always up to date on your order.
Try our nationwide document retrieval services today! Whether you need one document or thousands, we’ll get everything to you on time and within budget.