How can i obtain a physical copy of a file of a crimal case record which involved my friend who was killed?

Question

My friend was killed by a drunk driver a couple years ago, it still haunts me to this day because i dont know the exact details of what happened ... i feel like if i can see the file, and get all the details of what happened it will help me to move on ... i am assuming this is public record? but how do i get the copy of the file or record (whatever its called) ...

Thanks so much in advance!

Answer 1

To be honest with you, if it is a felony case, you cannot get a copy of the case.  You will not be able to get it no matter what.  Only the prosecutor, the officer and the superior officer get that to start off with.  It would not be a public record. Only thing public is that the person died and who got charged and convicted. You are probably better off not knowing anyway.  

Answer 2

You would need to go to the courthouse (Clerk's Office, generally) to obtain a copy.  You will need to know the defendant's name to look it up.  You will be charged for copying, of course.  

Answer 3

Likely this is indeed a public record, if all prosecution has been concluded. Requests are made to the agency that investigated the case. Some things may be redacted, but the essential facts will be there.  

Answer 4

Any case report (felony or misdemeanor) is public record.  The part about certain information being redacted (blacked out or removed) is absolutely true.  Just expect to spring a few bucks for the report.

Understand that you will not be able to get the "case file" as seen on tv (the big box with pictures, etc.) unless there are some very compelling circumstances.