Our Feed

We are involved in our communities, our profession, and our clients' associations and activities.

Do the amendments to the Michigan Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) allow verbal requests of documents?

Generally, FOIA requires that a request of “public records” be in “writing.” A “writing”, as defined by FOIA, does not include a verbal request. The amendments to FOIA, however, do address verbal requests and place a minimal onerous on township employees to respond. If a verbal request is made, the township employee must inform the requestor that the information is available on the township’s website, if the employee knows or believes the information is available on the website. Other than in this limited context, the general rule applies and a request for “public records” must be in “writing.”

Recent Articles & Announcements

  1. Can a township employer withhold...

    No. Michigan employers may not withhold a paycheck even if an employee (or former employee) has retained the employer’s property. The payc...

    Read More
  2. Employees or Independent Contrac...

    Townships of all sizes rely on workers to carry out basic governmental functions and keep the township running smoothly. Although larger tow...

    Read More
  3. Can the Township enter into a co...

    A Township can only enter into such a sales contract if the property is no longer being used for a public purpose. Michigan courts have defi...

    Read More
Talk to an Attorney
Request a Consultation

At Fahey Schultz Burzych Rhodes PLC, we’ve been helping municipalities, franchised businesses, employers, and more with their legal needs since 2008. We’d love to learn how we can help you, too.