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What do I need to know?
For some civil cases heard in Melbourne, you can find records by searching for the surname of the plaintiff or respondent. These cases cover approximately the periods 1861–1919 and 1960–1966.
These date ranges are dynamic, as the volunteer project to index civil case records for online searching is ongoing.
Next Steps
What are in these records?
In the Civil Case File
- document tendered to serve a summons
- papers lodged by plaintiff or respondent
- papers from the trial or before the action (including the judgement).
What you won’t find in a Civil Case File
- trial transcripts
Material in the Public Record Office Victoria archival collection contains words and descriptions that reflect attitudes and government policies at different times which may be insensitive and upsetting
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples should be aware the collection and website may contain images, voices and names of deceased persons.
PROV provides advice to researchers wishing to access, publish or re-use records about Aboriginal Peoples