The term "reasonably described" refers to the requirement that a request for a record must identify the document in a way that allows it to be located with a reasonable amount of effort. This means that the requester should provide enough detail about the document to enable the searcher to find it without excessive difficulty.
This term is commonly used in legal contexts related to public records requests, such as those governed by the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and similar state laws. It is crucial in civil law, particularly when individuals seek access to government documents. Users can often manage these requests themselves by utilizing legal templates available through services like US Legal Forms, which provide guidance on how to draft requests that meet the "reasonably described" standard.
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
Example 1: A person requests a copy of a specific report on environmental assessments conducted in 2020 by a local agency. They specify the title and date of the report, making it reasonably described.
Example 2: A requester asks for "all documents related to traffic accidents." This request may be considered too vague and not reasonably described, as it lacks specific details.
| State | Variation |
|---|---|
| California | Requests must be specific enough to allow for a focused search; vague requests may be denied. |
| Texas | Similar to California, but emphasizes the need for clarity in the request to avoid excessive search efforts. |
This is not a complete list. State laws vary and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.
| Term | Definition | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Specifically Described | Clearly identifies a document with precise details. | More detailed than "reasonably described," which allows for some flexibility. |
| Vaguely Described | Lacks sufficient detail for a search. | Contrasts with "reasonably described," which requires enough detail to locate the document. |
If you need to request a document, ensure that your request is specific and includes relevant details such as titles, dates, and any other identifying information. You can use templates from US Legal Forms to help draft your request. If your situation is complex or if your request is denied, consider seeking assistance from a legal professional.
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Your request may be denied or returned for clarification.