Requests for Records & Subpoenas

The OVPGC is responsible for responding to open records requests and subpoenas served on IU employees in the course and scope of their employment. IU faculty and staff who receive an open records request or a subpoena should forward it to the OVPGC as soon as it is received, and the attorneys in the OVPGC will help ensure that IU’s response is made pursuant to its legal obligations.

Open Records Requests

As a public institution, IU is subject to Indiana’s Access to Public Records Act (“APRA”). Any IU faculty or staff member who receives an open records request should immediately forward the request to the OVPGC and OVPGC will work with them regarding an appropriate response.

Search Warrants and Other Inquiries

Search Warrants

A search warrant is a written court order authorizing law enforcement officers or governmental agents to search specifically described areas. If a law enforcement officer or governmental agent presents a search warrant, IU faculty and staff should ask to see the agent’s identification, request to have a copy of the search warrant, call the OVPGC, and, after consulting with the OVPGC, allow the search to occur.

Other Inquiries from Outside Attorneys or Investigators

From time to time, attorneys, investigators, or insurance company representatives contact IU faculty and staff to request information about IU, its students, employees, or faculty members, without a warrant or a subpoena. Whenever faculty or staff members are contacted by attorneys or investigators who are requesting information, documents, or other evidence without a warrant or a subpoena, they should not disclose any information and should immediately notify the OVPGC about the inquiry. The inquiring person should be referred directly to the OVPGC, and IU attorneys can work with the outside attorney or investigator regarding an appropriate response.