Q: I have a request pending with a government agency, and based on questions answered in an interview, I would like to withdraw a portion of the request.
Is it possible to withdraw a portion of a request under California public records law? Or would withdrawing a portion nullify my rights to the other records (and technically, I could be forced to start the process all over again)?
A: There is no downside to withdrawing part of your request or narrowing your original request. Indeed, I imagine the agency will be quite happy about it – less work for it. Out of an abundance of caution you might want to re-state which records you are still seeking.
Bryan Cave LLP is general counsel for the First Amendment Coalition and responds to FAC hotline inquiries. In responding to these inquiries, we can give general information regarding open government and speech issues but cannot provide specific legal advice or representation.