Franklin Public Records Directory
All links go directly to official Franklin, Louisiana government websites.
About Franklin City Government
Annual Budget
$3.2 million
Regular Meetings
Public Sessions
The governing body of Franklin, Louisiana, is the Franklin City Council, which consists of 5 seats. Council members are elected by the residents of Franklin for a term length of 4 years. The current council members include President Michael A. "Mike" H. Darnell, Vice President John A. "Johnny" D. Williams, and members Kendra L. Williams, Eugene "Gene" D. Darnell, and J. C. "Jay" D. Williams.
For the fiscal year 2023, the approximate annual operating budget for the City of Franklin is $3.2 million. This budget encompasses various city services, including public safety, infrastructure maintenance, and community development initiatives.
The Franklin City Council holds regular meetings on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month at 6:00 PM. These meetings take place at the Franklin City Hall, located at 300 Iberia Street, Franklin, LA 70538. Residents are encouraged to attend and participate in discussions regarding local governance and community issues.
About Franklin, Louisiana
Saint Mary Parish Courthouse, built in 1911, and the beautiful Teche Theatre, which has been a center for community events since its opening in 1940. The city is also home to the picturesque Franklin Historic District, which features numerous antebellum homes and buildings that highlight the area's architectural significance. Economically, Franklin has a strong connection to the oil and gas industry, with several companies operating in the region, contributing to its economic stability and growth. The city's annual events, such as the Louisiana Shrimp and Petroleum Festival, further showcase its vibrant community spirit and local culture.
Franklin, Louisiana Public Records & Government Resources
Franklin Louisiana Archives and Genealogy
Louisiana Secretary of State archives and genealogy for Franklin.
Franklin Louisiana Bankruptcy Court
US Bankruptcy Court Eastern District of Louisiana for Franklin.
Louisiana Courts – Franklin Case Search
Louisiana Supreme Court and case search for Franklin.
Franklin Louisiana Vital Records
Louisiana Department of Health vital records for Franklin.
Franklin Louisiana Inmate Search
Louisiana Department of Corrections offender search for Franklin.
Franklin Louisiana Missing Persons
Louisiana State Police missing persons for Franklin.
Franklin Louisiana Sex Offender Registry
Louisiana State Police sex offender and child predator registry for Franklin.
Franklin Louisiana Criminal History Records
Louisiana State Police criminal history records for Franklin.
Franklin Louisiana Census and Vital Statistics
U.S. Census Bureau quick facts, demographics, and population statistics for Franklin.
City of Franklin
Directory of Franklin city records and information
Franklin Police Department
Find law enforcement services and information
Franklin Fire Department
Find fire prevention, fire suppression and emergency medical services
Franklin 3rd Ward City Court
Information on criminal and civil departments of the court
St Mary Parish Schools
Information for parents, students, teachers and employees
St Mary Parish Library System
Use the online catalog, find library news and events
Franklin Mayors Office
Get information and news about the mayor of Franklin
St Mary Chamber of Commerce
Find business directory and community information
Franklin Recreation Department
Information on recreation, leisure and culture for residents and visitors
The Banner Tribune
Get local and regional news in the local newspaper
Franklin Louisiana Criminal Records Search and Depository
Bureau of Criminal Identification and Information Physical Address 7919 Independence Blvd Baton Rouge, LA 70806
Franklin Louisiana Criminal and Civil Cases
Judicial Branch Criminal Division 1885 North 3rd St. Baton Rouge, LA 70802 P.O. Box 94005 Baton Rouge, LA 70804 PHONE: 2
Center for Missing & Exploited Children
Quick search for missing children, sex offenders, Amber alerts, records and more public information
Franklin Louisiana Inmates and Most Wanted
Prison Enterprises P.O. Box 44314 1060 Nicholson Drive Baton Rouge, LA 70804-4314 1-800-256-9646 To e-mail the Sales Des
Law Enforcement
Beyond the St. Mary Parish Sheriff's Office, municipal police departments in Morgan City, Franklin, and Patterson handle law enforcement within their respective city limits. Each agency manages local crime, traffic enforcement, and community policing initiatives. The departments work closely with the sheriff's office when major crimes and emergencies arise, creating a network of comprehensive coverage and shared resources across the parish.
Jail & Inmate Records
The St. Mary Parish Law Enforcement Center in Centerville operates as the primary detention facility for the parish. When individuals are booked, they undergo fingerprinting, photographing, and documentation of personal information. Families and attorneys can access inmate information through the parish's online lookup tool. Visitation requires advance scheduling, with strict guidelines governing permissible items and conduct. Louisiana's legal framework governs the bond process, permitting cash, property, or bail bondsmen to secure an individual's release.
Arrest Records
The St. Mary Parish Sheriff's Office maintains arrest records for the parish, documenting details of each arrest along with charges and personal information. Those seeking access to these records—whether residents or attorneys—must submit formal written requests in accordance with the Louisiana Public Records Act. Each record typically includes the arrest date, charges filed, and information about the arresting agency, offering a complete picture of the incident.
Court Records
The Franklin 3rd Ward City Court handles a range of legal matters for the city, from traffic violations and misdemeanor criminal cases to small claims disputes. Located at 400 Main St, Franklin, LA 70538, the court can be reached at (337) 828-6345. Court records, including case files and dockets, are open to the public and accessible through the court's website at https://www.franklin-la.com/department/index.php?structureid=17.
Criminal Records
The criminal records system in St. Mary Parish includes felony, misdemeanor, traffic offenses, and the sex offender registry. The St. Mary Parish Sheriff's Office and local police departments maintain these records, which are accessible to the public under the Louisiana Public Records Act. Background checks in Louisiana can be conducted through the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation, providing residents with comprehensive criminal history information. The bureau also offers fingerprint-based checks for more detailed reports, ensuring accuracy and reliability for employment or personal inquiries.
Public Records Access
St. Mary Parish Government maintains public records for Franklin, Louisiana, encompassing vital records like birth, marriage, and death certificates alongside property records, tax assessments, and other government documents. Residents can access these records through the parish's website at https://www.stmaryparishla.gov/. Franklin City Hall also keeps certain local records and is available by phone at (337) 828-6345 or in person at 400 Main St, Franklin, LA 70538.
Vital Records
Vital records for Franklin, Louisiana, including birth, marriage, and death certificates, are maintained by the St. Mary Parish Clerk of Court. Residents can request copies of these records by visiting the Clerk of Court's office at 500 Main St, Franklin, LA 70538, or by downloading an application form from the parish's website at https://www.stmaryparishla.gov/clerk-of-court. The office can be contacted at (337) 828-4100 for more information.
Business & Licensing Records
The Louisiana Secretary of State's office maintains business records for Franklin, Louisiana, including information on registered businesses, corporations, and commercial entities operating in the city. Residents and business owners can search the state's online business database at https://www.sos.la.gov/BusinessServices/SearchForBusiness/Pages/default.aspx or contact the Secretary of State's office at (225) 925-4704 for assistance.
Economy & Demographics
Franklin, Louisiana, has a diverse economy with a mix of industries, including manufacturing, agriculture, and tourism. Major employers in the city include Teche Regional Medical Center, Acadiana Bottling Company, and several local businesses. Economic data and statistics for Franklin and St. Mary Parish can be found on the St. Mary Parish Economic Development website at https://www.stmarypari.sh/. The Franklin Chamber of Commerce also provides information on the local business community at https://www.franklin-la.com/chamber-of-commerce.
Elections & Voter Records
The St. Mary Parish Registrar of Voters serves Franklin residents from 500 Main Street, Franklin, LA 70538, reachable at 337-828-4100, extension 250, or online at stmary.la.gov. Louisiana residents can register through the Secretary of State's GeauxVote website at voterportal.sos.la.gov, by mail, or in person at the Registrar's office. Registration deadlines fall 30 days before an election, or 20 days for online registration. The state requires voters to provide either their driver's license number, Louisiana Special ID number, or the last four digits of their Social Security number.
Municipal elections for Mayor and City Council follow Louisiana's election calendar, typically occurring in the fall of odd-numbered years. The most recent municipal elections took place in 2023, with the next scheduled for 2027. Voters also participate in St. Mary Parish government elections for Parish President, Council members, Sheriff, Assessor, Clerk of Court, and other parish offices on the same calendar. Franklin residents can locate their assigned polling place through the GeauxVote Voter Portal at voterportal.sos.la.gov, which provides lookup by name and birth date, displaying polling location, sample ballot, and registration status. Louisiana maintains substantially public election records. Voter registration lists are available for purchase for political purposes, campaign finance reports can be searched through the Louisiana Board of Ethics at ethics.la.gov, candidate qualifying information is published by the Secretary of State, and precinct-level results are posted by both the Secretary of State and the St. Mary Parish Registrar. In the November 2024 presidential election, St. Mary Parish saw approximately 53-56% voter turnout among registered voters, with Donald Trump capturing roughly 63-66% of the parish vote, reflecting the area's conservative political lean. The November 3, 2026 election will hold particular significance for Franklin and St. Mary Parish voters. No U.S. Senate seat from Louisiana is up that year, as Senator Bill Cassidy's term expires in 2027 and Senator John Kennedy's in 2029. The statewide constitutional offices elected in 2023—including Governor Jeff Landry, Lieutenant Governor, Secretary of State, and Attorney General—won't appear on the 2026 ballot given their four-year terms. Louisiana voters will elect all seven U.S. House of Representatives members in 2026, with Franklin residents in St. Mary Parish voting in Louisiana's 3rd Congressional District. The Louisiana Legislature doesn't have statewide elections in 2026 following the 2023 legislative elections. St. Mary Parish may hold elections for certain parish offices depending on term schedules, and the city could see municipal elections if special elections are called. Voters should confirm specific 2026 ballot content with the Registrar of Voters. Early voting begins 14 days before an election and ends seven days before Election Day, excluding Sundays. Absentee voting by mail is available for those absent from the parish on Election Day, those hospitalized or physically disabled, voters 65 or older, incarcerated individuals not under final felony conviction, or those accompanying a hospitalized family member. Absentee ballot applications must reach the Registrar of Voters with completed ballots returned by Election Day. Louisiana doesn't offer no-excuse mail-in voting—voters must meet specified criteria to vote absentee.
Public Records Transparency Score
Court Records: Limited: Online Access (16th JDC has minimal online search; most require in-person) | Property: Yes: Free Online Assessor (stmaryassessor.com provides full parcel data; recorded documents require Clerk visit) | Arrest Logs: Yes: Online Inmate Roster (Sheriff provides searchable current jail roster) | Vital Records: Limited: State Office Required (LDH Vital Records in New Orleans; online ordering via VitalChek with fees) | Business: Yes: Free State Database (Louisiana SOS Geaux Biz for entities; local licenses require city/parish contact) | Elections: Yes: Online Registration & Results (GeauxVote portal for registration/polling lookup; SOS posts results) | Overall: 6.8/10 — St. Mary Parish provides good online access for property assessments and basic inmate/election information, but court records and recorded documents require in-person visits, limiting full transparency for remote researchers.
Frequently Asked Questions
1 What are the school district and education performance data for Franklin, St. Mary Parish, Louisiana?
Education in Franklin is served by local school districts. Students attend schools within St. Mary County. The Louisiana Department of Education oversees K-12 public education for the state, including curriculum standards, teacher certification, and school accountability.
For specific information about schools serving Franklin, contact the local school district office or visit the Louisiana Department of Education website to find district boundaries, school ratings, and enrollment information for your address.
For specific information about schools serving Franklin, contact the local school district office or visit the Louisiana Department of Education website to find district boundaries, school ratings, and enrollment information for your address.
2 What are the crime statistics for Franklin, St. Mary Parish, Louisiana?
Crime data for Franklin, St. Mary County, Louisiana is maintained by local law enforcement agencies. The St. Mary County Sheriff's Office handles law enforcement for Franklin and surrounding areas.
State-level crime statistics and data resources are available through the Louisiana State Police. This agency provides information on crime trends, incident reports, and public safety data for jurisdictions across Louisiana.
For specific crime data requests for Franklin, contact the St. Mary County Sheriff's Office directly or submit a public records request. Local police departments may also maintain crime statistics specific to their jurisdiction.
State-level crime statistics and data resources are available through the Louisiana State Police. This agency provides information on crime trends, incident reports, and public safety data for jurisdictions across Louisiana.
For specific crime data requests for Franklin, contact the St. Mary County Sheriff's Office directly or submit a public records request. Local police departments may also maintain crime statistics specific to their jurisdiction.
3 What publicly accessible records can be obtained from the Franklin, St. Mary Parish, Louisiana Library?
The Franklin Public Library in Saint Mary County, Louisiana provides residents with access to public records and government document resources. Library cardholders can access online databases including genealogy services, historical newspapers, and Louisiana government records. The reference staff can assist with locating court records, property records, and vital records through the library's online catalog and interlibrary loan network. The library maintains materials on how to submit public records requests under the Louisiana Public Records Law (R.S. 44:1), which governs access to government documents in Louisiana. The library also offers access to genealogy resources including the Franklin Louisiana Archives and Genealogy at https://www.sos.la.gov/HistoricalResources/ResearchHistoricalRecords/Pages/default.aspx. Contact the Franklin Public Library reference desk for assistance or to confirm hours and services.
4 Where is the Franklin, St. Mary Parish, Louisiana Public Library located?
The Franklin, St. Mary Parish, Louisiana Library is located at 801 Main Street, Franklin, LA 70538.
5 Where is the nearest fingerprinting office located in Franklin, St. Mary Parish, Louisiana?
Fingerprinting services for Franklin, Louisiana residents are provided at the Franklin Police Department, which serves Saint Mary County. Fingerprinting is required for a variety of purposes, including pre-employment background checks, professional licensing (nursing, teaching, law, real estate), volunteer work with children or the elderly, immigration and naturalization applications, firearm purchases, and FBI Identity History Summary requests. To schedule fingerprinting, call the Franklin Police Department for visit in person. Bring a valid, government-issued photo ID (driver's license or passport) and any required agency forms. Fingerprint cards are typically forwarded to the Louisiana State Police for processing. For statewide fingerprint-based background checks, visit the Louisiana State Police at https://lcle.la.gov/programs/uploads.asp?div=5.
6 What are the requirements for obtaining vital records from Franklin, St. Mary Parish, Louisiana, and what information is provided in the records?
The procedures to obtain vital records from Franklin, St. Mary Parish, Louisiana are as follows:
1. Visit the St. Mary Parish Clerk of Court office in Franklin, Louisiana.
2. Complete the application form for the type of vital record you are requesting.
3. Provide a valid form of identification, such as a driver's license or passport.
4. Pay the applicable fee.
5. Wait for the record to be processed and mailed to you.
The types of vital records available from Franklin, St. Mary Parish, Louisiana include birth certificates, death certificates, marriage certificates, and divorce decrees.
1. Visit the St. Mary Parish Clerk of Court office in Franklin, Louisiana.
2. Complete the application form for the type of vital record you are requesting.
3. Provide a valid form of identification, such as a driver's license or passport.
4. Pay the applicable fee.
5. Wait for the record to be processed and mailed to you.
The types of vital records available from Franklin, St. Mary Parish, Louisiana include birth certificates, death certificates, marriage certificates, and divorce decrees.
7 How do I register to vote in Franklin, Louisiana?
To register to vote in Franklin, Louisiana, residents should contact the Saint Mary Parish Clerk's office, which administers elections for Franklin and surrounding communities. Eligible voters must be U.S. citizens, residents of Louisiana, and at least 18 years old by Election Day. Louisiana offers voter registration online at geauxvote.com, by mail, or in person at the Saint Mary Parish Clerk's office. Residents can check their registration status, find their polling location, and view sample ballots through the Louisiana Secretary of State website. For questions about voter registration or elections in Franklin, contact the Saint Mary Parish election office directly.
8 How do I look up property records in Franklin, Louisiana?
Property records for Franklin, Louisiana are maintained by the Saint Mary Parish Assessor's Office and the Saint Mary Parish Clerk and Recorder. The Assessor's Office is responsible for discovering, listing, and valuing all taxable property within Saint Mary Parish, including parcels in Franklin. Records available include property ownership, assessed values, legal descriptions, parcel maps, and tax history. The Saint Mary Parish Clerk and Recorder maintains recorded documents including deeds, mortgages, liens, and easements. Many Louisiana counties provide online property record searches through their county websites. For in-person requests, visit the Saint Mary Parish offices at the county courthouse. The Saint Mary Parish Treasurer handles property tax payments and tax sale information.
9 How do I get a birth or death certificate in Franklin, Louisiana?
Birth, death, and marriage records for Franklin, Louisiana residents are available through both county and state offices. The Louisiana Department of Health, Vital Records Registry, located in Baton Rouge, maintains statewide vital records and can issue certified copies of birth and death certificates for events occurring anywhere in Louisiana. Orders can be placed online, by mail, or in person. Locally, the Saint Mary Parish Clerk's office issues marriage licenses and maintains marriage records for Saint Mary Parish. Birth and death certificates may also be available through local vital records offices. Requestors typically need to provide valid photo identification and proof of their relationship to the person named on the record. Processing times and fees vary by office and record type.
10 How do I find business license records in Franklin, Louisiana?
Business licensing for Franklin, Louisiana operates at municipal, county, and state levels. The Franklin town or city clerk's office handles local business permits, zoning approvals, and any municipal license requirements for businesses operating within Franklin limits. Saint Mary Parish may require additional registrations for businesses in unincorporated areas or county-level sales tax licensing. At the state level, all Louisiana businesses must register with the Louisiana Secretary of State and obtain applicable state tax identification numbers from the Louisiana Department of Revenue. Professional licenses for regulated occupations are issued by the relevant Louisiana licensing boards. For a complete list of requirements for starting a business in Franklin, contact the Franklin clerk's office and the Saint Mary Parish economic development office.