Data You Give Us Directly
Search Queries
A name or place entered in a search tool is sent to the outside provider that operates that tool. The provider processes the query and supplies its results. We do not keep a separate log of those search terms.
Messages and Contact Submissions
An email may be retained long enough to review and answer it. It remains within our organization unless disclosure is required by a valid legal obligation.
Data We Gather Automatically
Normal server and analytics logs collect basic technical facts when a page loads:
- Pages viewed, visit length, and page-view times
- Browser name and version
- Device type and operating system
- Internet Protocol address
- The referring site, when supplied
Cookies and Analytics
Cookies are small device files that help measure traffic and navigation patterns. Analytics services combine that activity so we can understand page use. A browser can block cookies, although some features may then work differently.
What We Do With This Data
- Routing a submitted query to the selected search provider
- Maintaining site speed and availability
- Finding and repairing technical problems
- Measuring which pages visitors use
- Displaying advertising that may reflect visitor interests
No Criminal-Record Data on File
We do not build, keep, or sell a database of personal criminal records. The site identifies official Berrien County sources, including the County Clerk, Sheriff's Records Division, Michigan State Police CJIC, and Michigan Public Sex Offender Registry. Visitor information is not assembled into a consumer report or a record about another person, and this site is not a consumer reporting agency under the FCRA.
Third-Party Search Partners
Outside companies operate the search boxes. Their privacy policies, not this policy, govern information submitted to their tools. They decide how long data is kept and whether it is shared. Review those terms before running a query.
Links to Other Websites
Links may lead to Berrien County offices, Michigan agencies, courts, legal resources, or outside tools. Once you leave this site, the destination's policy controls. Review it before giving that service personal information.
Advertising providers may use their own systems to measure activity across websites and select ads.
Who Might See Your Data
Personal data is not sold. It may be disclosed to a limited set of recipients:
- Analytics vendors that measure performance and visits
- Search providers that process submitted queries
- Advertising networks serving content on the pages
- Government or law-enforcement bodies acting under valid legal process
How We Protect Your Data
Reasonable, standard safeguards are used for collected information. No internet system is completely secure, so we cannot guarantee that a breach or unauthorized access will never occur.
Users Under 18
The service is intended for adults. We do not knowingly collect personal information from anyone under 18 and will delete such information when we learn it was provided.
Your Data Rights
Rights may vary by residence. Michigan's Consumer Protection Act, MCL 445.901 et seq., and other applicable privacy or consumer laws may provide additional remedies. Michigan FOIA, MCL 15.231 et seq., applies to qualifying government records, and MCL 28.243 governs state criminal-history reporting and maintenance. Those official-record laws do not turn this private site into a public body. Subject to applicable law, you may:
- Request correction of inaccurate information
- Ask for access to information kept about you
- Object to certain processing when a right applies
- Request deletion where the law permits it
Updates to This Policy
This policy may be revised. A new version becomes available here with its current effective date.
Effective date: July 27, 2026