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PBSA Journal PAGE 5 MAY/JUNE 2023 Except where otherwise indicated, articles are copyright © by PBSA 2023. All rights reserved. W ith the ease of looking up records online, it's easy to forget how important the human connection can be in court research. That is why in-person court research continues to be a vital part of our industry. From conversations with some of our researchers, we've compiled some strategies and tips on how to more effectively conduct research at the courthouse. Whether you are new to performing in-person court research or just need some help to do it better, these tips will keep you productive and help you achieve results. In-Person Better Than Remotely Our researchers noted that the COVID-19 pandemic made them rely on remote research temporarily, but now things are pretty much back to normal. And, they prefer conducting research in-person at the courthouse versus remotely. Why? "Many times, follow-up questions come up when we are at the courthouse. It's always good to have a clerk or other court official to go to when these questions come up," stated Sam Nuwman of Infinity Court Research. "Going in person is ideal for the type of work we do. This allows us to build relationships with court staff that brings a certain 'human element' to the process. Court clerks are more inclined to assist a live human being rather than responding to an email/fax," said Cody Farzad of Reliance Intellicheck. It goes without saying that developing relationships with court staff is beneficial to researchers in terms of being able to complete their work in an efficient and timely manner. Follow the Rules and the Unofficial Ones, Too Try not to stand out when visiting the courthouse and its facilities. That is a tip given by our researchers. One way to not stand out is by always following the rules. These rules are sometimes posted in the courthouse, but not always. For example, there are almost always time limits. There are time limits to use the Public Access Terminals, time limits to possess a court file, and others. By following these rules, you are held in good regard by court officials. You also are conscientious to your fellow researchers and members of the press or public. There are rules that are not written, but more common sense. One of these rules is to dress professionally. Don't show up in t-shirt and sweatpants. You do not need to wear a suit, but business casual is recommended. In addition, only do research in rooms/areas of the courthouse that are designated for researchers or the public. Act like you are a guest in the courthouse. According to Sam Nuwman, "Never get in an argument with a court official as this could be the end of your ability to conduct research in that court." Misrepresenting yourself and the reason you are doing court research is not a good idea. Finally, treat clerks and court officials with respect and the way you would like to be treated. Be Prepared Come prepared and don't expect the court clerks to provide you with pen, paper, change for the copy machine or Wi-Fi service. Our researchers reported that they see many members of the public asking for these mundane items and annoying court staff in the process. By asking for these things, you also put your fellow researchers, and perhaps the industry, in a bad light. Some Questions Court Researchers May Have For Court Staff From talking to our researchers, here are some questions that are acceptable to ask when dealing with court personnel. Probably the most common question researchers ask is: Can you validate record information using an identifier (typically DOB)? If yes, a follow up to this question is whether they can validate record information over the phone? As researchers become more familiar to court staff, they sometimes ask about typical turnaround times (TATs) and whether TATs are faster if they drop off, email, fax, or U.S. Mail. With the above strategies in mind, you are sure to excel at your job and maximize your performance. l Tips for Conducting Research at the Courts By Jose Dimas, PBSA Government Relations Director of Public Records Access Public Records Access Update Whether you are new to performing in-person court research or just need some help to do it better, these tips will keep you productive and help you achieve results.

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