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The St. Lucie County Clerk Of Court form is designed for individuals seeking the removal of exempt personal information from non-judicial public records. This form caters to various categories of participants, including current or former government agency employees, their spouses and children, and protected individuals eligible for redaction. It outlines specific statutory bases for requesting the removal, such as being a victim of violent crime or mass violence, or being affiliated with law enforcement or other protective services. Applicants can request the redaction of several types of information, such as residential addresses, Social Security numbers, and personal associations, ensuring their privacy is maintained. However, the form also clearly states that it is a public record, meaning that any requests made will lead to redacted versions of the submitted information being shared. Complete understanding of the consequences and protocols involved in this process is crucial for individuals considering using the form. Awareness of additional requirements, such as specific verification documents, helps in streamlining the redaction request.

St Lucie County Clerk Of Court Example

Request for Redaction of Exempt Personal Information From Non-Judicial Public Records

I request to have exempt personal information removed from records maintained by the St. Lucie County Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller’s Office.

Current/former government agency employee in the category checked below

Spouse of a current/former government agency employee in the category checked below

Child of a current/former government agency employee in the category checked below

Protected individual requesting redaction in the category checked below

Statutory Basis for Removal:

 

Victim of violent crime [s. 119.071(2)(j)1, F.S.]*

supervisors [s. 119.071(4)(d)2.k., F.S.]

Victim of an incident of mass violence [s.

Public Defender and APDs [s.119.071(4)(d)2.l., F.S.]

119.071(2)(o), F.S.]**

Criminal conflict counsel and civil regional counsel

Law enforcement officers or civilian staff,

[s. 119.071(4)(d)2.l., F.S.]

correctional and correctional probation officers [s.

Dept of Business Regulation investigators and

119.071(4)(d)2.a., F.S.]

inspectors [s. 119.071(4)(d)2.m., F.S.]

Dept of Children and Family investigator [s.

Tax collectors (current only) [s.119.071(4)(d)2.n.,

119.071(4)(d)2.a., F.S.]

F.S.]

Dept of Health investigator of child abuse or

Dept of Health personnel involved in eligibility,

neglect [s. 119.071(4)(d)2.a., F.S.]

investigation, prosecution, and inspection [s.

Dept of Revenue or local government child support

119.071(4)(d)2.o., F.S.]

collection/enforcement personnel [s.

Impaired practitioner consultants retained by an

119.071(4)(d)2.a., F.S.]

agency [s. 119.071(4)(d)2.p., F.S.]

Florida Department of Financial Services

Emergency medical technician or paramedic [s.

investigative personnel [s. 119.071(4)(d)2.b., F.S.]

119.071(4)(d)2.q., F.S.]

Office of Financial Regulation’s Bureau of Financial

Agency inspector general office or internal audit

Investigations investigative personnel [s.

department employees with auditing or potential

119.071(4)(d)2.c., F.S.]

criminal investigating or disciplinary duties [s.

Firefighter [s. 119.071(4)(d)2.d., F.S.]

119.071(4)(d)2.r., F.S.]

Justice or judge [s. 119.071(4)(d)2.e., F.S.]

Addiction treatment facility director, manager,

State attorney and ASAs [s. 119.071(4)(d)2.f., F.S.]

supervisor, nurse, or clinical employee [s.

Statewide prosecutor and asst. statewide

119.071(4)(d)2.s., F.S.]**

prosecutors [s. 119.071(4)(d)2.f., F.S.]

Child advocacy center director, manager,

General or Special Magistrate [s. 119.071(4)(d)2.g,

supervisor, clinical employee of [s.

F.S.]

119.071(4)(d)2.t., F.S.]

Judge of Compensation Claims, Administrative Law

Domestic violence center current or former staff

Judge [s. 119.071(4)(d)2.g, F.S.]

and advocates [s. 119.071(4)(d)2.u., F.S.]

Child Support Hearing Officer [s. 119.071(4)(d)2.g,

U.S. Attorney and AUSAs [s. 119.071(5)(i)1., F.S.]**

F.S.]

U.S. Judge or U.S. Magistrate [s. 119.071(5)(i)1.,

Local Govt. or Water Mgt. District Human

F.S.]**

resources manager/assistant manager [s.

Public guardians and employees with fiduciary

119.071(4)(d)2.h., F.S.]

responsibilities [s. 744.21031, F.S.]

Local Govt. or Water Mgt. District Labor or

* Attach official verification of crime (i.e. police

employee relations manager/assistant manager [s.

report or injunction). 5-year renewable exemption.

119.071(4)(d)2.h., F.S.]

**Names of spouse/children for marked individuals

Code enforcement officer [s. 119.071(4)(d)2.i., F.S.]

are not exempt

Guardian ad litem [s. 119.071(4)(d)2.j., F.S.]

NOTE: Grantor, grantee, or party names cannot be

Juvenile probation/detention officer, house

removed from Official Records unless they contain

parent, therapy provider, counselor and their

the street address

 

BP Redaction Request Procedure rev 09/22/21

 

REQUESTOR CONTACT INFORMATION

Printed Name: __________________________________________________________________

Telephone Number: ______________________________________________________________

Email address: ___________________________________________________________________

INFORMATION TO BE REDACTED

Address where I (or qualifying spouse or child) reside (physical, mailing, or street address):

The following additional address information for address where I reside: legal property description (consider title implications), parcel identification number, plot identification number, neighborhood name and lot number, GPS coordinates, other description property information that may reveal home address:

Telephone Number(s)

Social Security Number (do not list SSN) / Date of Birth:

Names of spouse and/or children to be redacted:**

_________________________________________________

Place(s) of Employment/Location:

Name and Location of School/Daycare Facility of child):

Personal assets (crime victim):

WARNING: There may be consequences to redacting information on a public record, which is a risk undertaken by the requestor. Only the documents identified by the requestor will be redacted. Once redaction is requested and completed, future redactions require an additional redaction request. **However, grantor, grantee, or party names cannot be removed, unless the street address is included in the name, such as in a Trust or LLC. (Section 28.2221(2)(b), Florida Statutes.)

PUBLIC RECORD: This form is itself a public record. If a copy of it is requested, all exempt information contained in this form will be redacted.

DOCUMENTS TO BE REDACTED

The following section is to be completed during or after a visit to the St. Lucie County Clerk’s /Comptroller’s Office at Provide your Clerk’s/Comptroller’s Website or the office, address, and zip code of office.

As a result of my review of the Official Records of the St. Lucie County Clerk’s/Comptroller’s Office, I hereby agree that the St. Lucie County Clerk’s/Comptroller’s Office staff has my permission to modify a copy of the following documents in accordance with Section 119.071, Florida Statutes. I understand that only the modified copy will be made available to the public, unless otherwise ordered by a court of competent jurisdiction.

Instrument Number

Book

Page

Document Title

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BP Redaction Request Procedure rev 09/22/21

Documents Other Than Official Records:

RELEASE TO GOVERNMENTAL AGENCIES: An unredacted version of these documents will be provided to the Property Appraiser and Tax Collector to allow them to perform their governmental duties and responsibilities. To redact information held by the Property Appraiser or the Tax Collector you must make a written request to those agencies directly under Section 119.071(4)(d)(4), F.S. To redact information held by the Property Appraiser call 772-462-1000 or by the Tax Collector call 772-462-1650. If you wish to release your information to other individuals or entities, please complete a Request to Release Redacted Information on Recorded Documents form.

RELEASE FOR TITLE SEARCHES: an unredacted version of these documents may be provided to title insurers, agents or agencies and attorneys conducting title searches as authorized in section 28.2221(6)(b), F.S. Notice of any title search release will be sent to the most recent address on the recorded documents on the redaction request provided by the requestor.

COURTESY NOTICE - RELEASE OF PRIOR REDACTIONS:

If you have previously requested protection of a home address that is no longer your residence, you are required by Florida law to submit a written, notarized request to release the removed information. Please ask the Clerk or Recorder for the Release form. *Releases for other Florida counties must be submitted directly to that county.

The information provided on this request for confidentiality is itself to be kept confidential. Confidential information is defined as: a physical address, mailing address, street address, parcel ID number, plot ID number, legal property description, neighborhood name, lot number, GPS coordinates, any descriptive property information that reveals the home address, Social Security number, dates of birth, photographs, phone number, names of spouses and/or children, place of employment of spouse or children, names and addresses of child's school or day care center. Redaction of family members is subject to the qualifying individual’s employment. The information may only be used by the St. Lucie County Clerk’s staff in order to process my request for confidentiality.

I agree to indemnify and hold harmless the Clerk of the Circuit Court & Comptroller of St. Lucie County and the staff for any consequences arising from this request for confidentiality. I understand that my classification may or may not be subject to the Open Government Sunset Review Act in accordance with s. 119.15.

 

________________

 

Date

Signature

STATE OF FLORIDA COUNTY OF __________

Sworn to (or affirmed) and subscribed before me by means of ☐ physical presence or ☐ online notarization, this __ day of ____________, ____, by ____________________________________.

Personally Known to me or ☐ who has produced _______________________ as identification.

<Seal>

____________________________________

 

Signature of Notary Public – State of Florida

 

____________________________________

 

Print, Type, or Stamp Name of Notary Public

BP Redaction Request Procedure rev 09/22/21

 

Form Characteristics

Fact Name Description
Purpose This form allows individuals to request the removal of exempt personal information from public records maintained by the St. Lucie County Clerk of Court.
Eligibility Criteria Individuals eligible to request redaction include specific government agency employees, their spouses, children, and protected individuals as defined by law.
Legislative Reference The request for redaction is governed by Florida Statutes, particularly section 119.071, which outlines public access to records and the exemptions therein.
Exempt Personal Information Types of information that may be redacted include addresses, social security numbers, dates of birth, and names of spouses or children.
Notification Requirement Once a redaction is requested, the requestor must be notified if their information is released during a title search or other governmental duties.
Public Record Status This form itself becomes a public record; however, any exempt information within it will be redacted upon request.
Official Verification For certain claims like being a victim of crime, official verification documents (like police reports) need to be submitted with the request.
Agency Notification If an unredacted version of documents is required for governmental duties, the requestor agrees to allow those agencies access to this information.
Consequences of Redaction The requestor must understand potential consequences of redacting information on public records, which may limit future access to that information.
Indemnification Clause The requestor agrees to hold the Clerk and staff harmless for any consequences stemming from the confidentiality request, emphasizing personal responsibility.

Guidelines on Utilizing St Lucie County Clerk Of Court

Filling out the St. Lucie County Clerk of Court form for redaction is an important step to protect your personal information. Below are the steps to guide you through the process of completing the form correctly.

  1. Obtain the Form: Access the form online through the St. Lucie County Clerk's website or visit the Clerk's office to get a hard copy.
  2. Section 1 - Personal Information: Fill in your printed name, phone number, and email address in the contact information section at the top of the form.
  3. Section 2 - Requestor Status: Check the box that applies to you, indicating whether you are a current/former government agency employee, a spouse, a child, or a protected individual.
  4. Section 3 - Statutory Basis for Removal: Review the options listed and check the applicable circumstances that qualify your request for redaction.
  5. Section 4 - Information to be Redacted: Indicate what information you want to have removed. This can include your address, telephone number, Social Security number, or other sensitive details. Make sure not to write your Social Security number on the form.
  6. Section 5 - Document Information: If applicable, note the instrument number, book/page, and document title for the records you want modified.
  7. Section 6 - Signature and Notary: Sign and date the form. You must also have your signature notarized. Bring the form to a notary public who will witness your signature and complete their section.
  8. Submission: Submit the completed form in person at the St. Lucie County Clerk’s office, or check if there are options to submit it online or by mail.

After you submit the form, it will be processed by the Clerk's office. You will receive a modified copy of your records, and only the information you specified for redaction will be made confidential. Keep a copy of the submitted form for your records, as you may need to refer to it later.

What You Should Know About This Form

What is the purpose of the St. Lucie County Clerk of Court form?

This form is designed for individuals who wish to request the redaction of exempt personal information from non-judicial public records. It aims to protect sensitive details connected to individuals, particularly those in certain protective categories, such as victims of violent crimes or government employees.

Who can submit this redaction request?

The request can be made by government agency employees, their spouses, children, and certain protected individuals. Categories include but are not limited to law enforcement personnel, public defenders, and victims of violent crimes. It's essential to check the relevant box on the form that corresponds to your eligibility.

What type of information can be redacted?

The information eligible for redaction includes residential addresses, social security numbers, dates of birth, and names of spouses and children. Other personal identifiers that could compromise an individual's privacy may also be included, such as telephone numbers and places of employment.

Is the redaction process reversible?

The redaction process is generally not reversible once completed. If you wish to redact information again in the future, you must submit a new request. The requestor assumes the risk associated with redacting information from public records, which can have potential implications.

What happens if my request is approved?

If your request for redaction is approved, only the modified copy of the document will be available to the public. This means that personal information you specified will be removed from public view. However, unredacted versions may still be provided to certain governmental agencies for their necessary functions.

Can I release my redacted information to others?

You have the option to release your redacted information to specific individuals or entities. To do this, you must complete a separate form called the Request to Release Redacted Information on Recorded Documents. This enables you to control who can access the information that has been redacted.

What if my address changes after I’ve submitted a redaction request?

If your address changes and you want to release your previously protected address, Florida law mandates that you submit a written, notarized request to do so. It's crucial to follow this procedure to comply with legal requirements regarding the release of redacted information.

Is the redaction form itself public information?

Yes, the redaction request form itself is considered a public record. However, any exempt information you include in the form will be redacted if someone requests access to it. Thus, while the form can be viewed publicly, your sensitive information remains protected.

Common mistakes

Filling out the St. Lucie County Clerk of Court form can be a straightforward task if done correctly. However, many individuals make common mistakes that can lead to delays or complications. Here are ten critical errors to avoid when completing this important document.

First, many forget to provide complete contact information. The form requires your printed name, telephone number, and email address. Failing to fill in all these details may hinder the processing of your request. Incomplete information can lead to delays, so make sure to double-check this section.

Second, misidentification is another frequent mistake. The form allows you to identify your status as a current or former government employee, spouse, or child of one. Selecting the incorrect category can result in a rejection of your request. Take a moment to carefully assess your eligibility before marking your choice.

Next, individuals often overlook the importance of providing a clear statutory basis for removal. Each category in the form has specific legal references. If you do not select the correct basis, your request may not meet the required legal standards, which can lead to unfortunate denials.

Another common error is failing to adequately identify the information needing redaction. Be precise in marking the specific addresses, phone numbers, or other personal identifiers. Inadequately specified information may result in partial redaction or rejection of your request, creating further issues.

Moreover, a surprisingly common mistake is not attaching the necessary verification documents. If claiming eligibility as a victim of a crime, you must submit official verification, such as a police report. Without this documentation, your claim lacks legitimacy, and the request could be denied.

People also tend to ignore the warning about consequences. The form clearly states that there may be risks associated with redacting personal information from public records. Ignoring this can leave individuals vulnerable, as they may not fully understand the implications of their request until it's too late.

Additionally, individuals sometimes make errors in the section about the information to be redacted. Including personal details that are not relevant or required can complicate the process. Stick to what is asked, and avoid overwhelming the form with unnecessary details.

Furthermore, misunderstandings about subsequent redactions can cause confusion. Once you have submitted a request, understand that future redactions will require a new request. Failing to recognize this can lead to misinformation in understanding how to protect personal data later.

Also, people may not realize that this form is itself a public record. If someone requests a copy, any exempt information will still be redacted. Being unaware of this can lead to false expectations regarding the confidentiality of the form.

Lastly, be cautious when providing a signature for notarization. It is critical that signatures are done according to the instructions on the form. Inconsistencies can lead to the denial of your submission. Ensure that the notarization is completed properly.

By being aware of these common pitfalls, individuals can improve their chances of successfully completing the St. Lucie County Clerk of Court form. Take the time to review each section thoroughly, attach any necessary documentation, and ensure accuracy to avoid unnecessary complications.

Documents used along the form

When addressing the need for confidentiality and the removal of personal information from public records in St. Lucie County, several additional forms and documents may be required or helpful alongside the Request for Redaction of Exempt Personal Information. Here’s a brief overview of some of these documents:

  • Request to Release Redacted Information on Recorded Documents: This form allows individuals to authorize the release of their redacted personal data to specified parties or entities.
  • Redaction Request Procedure: This document outlines the process and criteria for requesting redaction, including instructions on how to fill out the necessary forms.
  • Affidavit for Release of Confidential Information: An affidavit that individuals can submit if they need to revoke a prior redaction request or release their previously protected information.
  • Title Search Waiver: This form permits title insurers, attorneys, or agents to receive unredacted versions of documents for title searches, ensuring legal compliance while accessing necessary records.
  • Authorization for Government Agencies: This document authorizes government agencies like the Property Appraiser or Tax Collector to access unredacted information for official duties.
  • Confidentiality Request for Specific Records: A specialized request aimed at ensuring certain records are kept confidential due to unique circumstances surrounding them.
  • Notary Public Acknowledgment Form: Required for notarizing the signature on redaction requests, validating the identity of the requester and the legitimacy of their request.
  • Verification of Identity Form: A form used to confirm the identity of the individual requesting redaction, typically requiring personal identification documents.

These documents play a crucial role in maintaining privacy and ensuring that sensitive information is handled appropriately. It’s always best to prepare and understand these forms thoroughly to navigate the process smoothly.

Similar forms

  • Public Records Exemption Request: Similar to the St. Lucie County Clerk Of Court form, this document allows individuals to request the removal of specific personal information from public records. Both require a clear definition of the information to be redacted and the justification for the request.
  • Victim Notification Request Form: This form serves victims of crimes, allowing them to request notifications related to their case. Like the Clerk form, it emphasizes the importance of protecting personal information of individuals involved in the legal process.
  • Confidentiality Agreement: Used during legal proceedings, this document ensures that sensitive information remains undisclosed. It shares the common goal of privacy assurance seen in the St. Lucie County Clerk Of Court form.
  • Request for Protective Order: Individuals may submit this document to prevent specific individuals from accessing their personal information. Similar to the redaction request, it seeks to establish boundaries for privacy.
  • Identity Theft Report: This document is filed by victims of identity theft and helps them to request protective measures for their personal information, echoing the intent of the St. Lucie County form.
  • Child Support Confidentiality Petition: Parents may file this petition to keep their financial and personal information private in child support cases. It parallels the Clerk form’s focus on concealing sensitive data.
  • Incident Report Request for Redaction: Similar to the St. Lucie document, this request allows individuals to seek redaction of their personal information found in police reports.
  • Sexual Offender Registration Form: This form allows registered offenders to update their information while requesting the protection of certain sensitive data. Both forms address the sensitive nature of personal data and protective measures surrounding it.

Dos and Don'ts

Filling out the St. Lucie County Clerk of Court form requires attention to detail and accuracy. Here is a list of ten important dos and don'ts to keep in mind during the process:

  • Do read the entire form carefully before starting.
  • Don't omit any required information; incomplete submissions can delay processing.
  • Do confirm your eligibility for redaction based on the specified categories.
  • Don't include Social Security Numbers or confidential information unless explicitly asked.
  • Do provide contact information, including a telephone number and email address.
  • Don't forget to attach any necessary verification documents, such as police reports if claiming victim status.
  • Do double-check all entries to minimize errors.
  • Don't submit forms without reviewing any instructions specific to your case.
  • Do make sure to sign and date the form before submission.
  • Don't assume your information is confidential until the request is approved and processed.

Misconceptions

Misconception 1: Only victims of violent crimes can request redaction.

This is incorrect. While victims of violent crimes are indeed eligible, other categories also qualify for redaction. Individuals such as law enforcement officers, public defenders, and their family members can also request the removal of personal information.

Misconception 2: The form is only for residents of St. Lucie County.

The form is specific to St. Lucie County records, but individuals from other jurisdictions should follow their local procedures. However, if their records are held in St. Lucie County, they can complete this form regardless of their residency.

Misconception 3: Once information is redacted, it cannot be accessed again.

Redacted information is still held by the Clerk’s office, though it won’t be made available publicly. Certain governmental entities can access the unredacted information for their official duties, indicating that while privacy is enhanced, full exclusion from access is not absolute.

Misconception 4: You can remove names of grantors or grantees from official records.

This statement is false. Names of grantors, grantees, or parties involved in the record cannot be removed unless they include the exact street address in the name, as outlined in Florida statutes.

Misconception 5: Any information can be redacted upon request.

This is misleading. While the form allows for various personal details to be redacted, there are restrictions. For instance, only the specific information identified by the requester can be redacted. Additionally, certain identifiers, like the names of grantors, cannot be removed.

Misconception 6: A simple request is enough to ensure ongoing protection of personal information.

This misconception overlooks a critical detail. If a home address changes, individuals must submit a notarized request to release previously protected information. Simply submitting a redaction request does not automatically continue the protection if circumstances change.

Key takeaways

Filling out the St. Lucie County Clerk of Court form for redaction of exempt personal information is an important process for those who are eligible. Here are key takeaways to keep in mind:

  • Eligibility Awareness: The form is designed for government employees, their spouses and children, and certain victims eligible under state law.
  • Identification Required: Official verification, such as a police report, may be necessary to support claims of being a victim of a violent crime.
  • Specific Information to Redact: You can request the removal of various personal details, including your address, Social Security number, and date of birth.
  • Public Record: Understand that this form becomes a public record, but exempt information will be redacted if requested.
  • Documentation Process: Be prepared to fill out specific details about documents you want modified, including their official titles and identifiers.
  • Disclosure to Agencies: Government agencies, such as the Property Appraiser and Tax Collector, will receive unredacted versions of your documents for official purposes.
  • Future Redactions: Once you request a redaction, any subsequent requests will require a new form, so maintain records of your requests.
  • Legal Implications: Removing information could have consequences, so fully understand the risks involved before proceeding.
  • Release Requests:** If you change addresses or need to release information previously redacted, follow the legal requirements to submit a notarized request.
  • Confidentiality Understanding: Any information provided is confidential and meant solely for processing redaction requests.

By carefully completing this form and following the outlined procedures, individuals can help protect their sensitive information effectively.