A criminal record is a collection of a person’s criminal convictions and arrests. Commonly referred to as a rap sheet, the criminal record may sound threatening. However, in the United States a criminal record has become increasingly common. The criminal record is stored by state, local and federal authorities who use this information for differing purposes. But, this information is considered a public record, and is available, if you know where to look.

Below, we will explain how this can be done.

Run An Online Public Record Search For A Criminal Record

The cable tv and internet makes it incredibly easy to find these records. A few clicks and taps, and you can find the exact information you’re looking for. It’s convenient, it’s quick, and it’s by far the most direct and simplest way to go about gathering this information.

All you’ll need to do is enter their identification details, and the search engine should fetch the requisite date in no time.

Local Police Check

Visiting a local police department is an alternative to the above method. With the assistance of an on-duty officer, you can search through the available records. However, many departments aren’t interlinked, and some even lack digital records. This can mean searching through their records can be very time consuming, and may turn up fruitless. If so, you may have to go to another department, and begin the lengthy process anew.

Hire A Local Attorney

This is the preferred method when dealing with multiple potential candidates. The law office can provide advice on their record, and can find it via their own private databases with some ease. However, it’s important to note that they will charge a service fee, and lawyers are rarely cheap.

Make An Application With The County Clerk

Court rulings are considered a public event, and if you can locate the court where a person was found guilty, then you can request a copy of their record via the county clerk. However, in ongoing cases, you’re unlikely to gain access to any records, and if you can’t supply the clerk with a valid reason for your query, then they reserve the right to deny you access to them.

When Should You Begin A Criminal Records Search?

• When a family member has been missing for a while, and you suspect criminal activity
• You are interested in dating someone you’ve met online
• Searching for a new tenant or neighbor
• Locating someone’s address
• Self-research

Can Someone Else View My Criminal Record?

Yes. As stated before, a person’s criminal record is considered public. The Freedom of Information Act(1967) declared it such.

How Long Does A Criminal Record Last?

Possessing a criminal record will likely affect your employability. But, your criminal record can be expunged if 10 years have elapsed after the date of your conviction. If you haven’t been convicted within 10 years as well, your record can be wiped. If need be, you can also apply to have your record expunged.

If you’re looking to view your criminal record, or the criminal record of someone you know, then try out SpyFly. Their service is excellent, and proof that online public record search is the easiest way to run a background check.

SpyFly provides consumers affordable, immediate access to public record information. Federal laws prohibit businesses from using SpyFly’s service to make decisions about employment, insurance, consumer credit, tenant screening, or for any other purpose subject to the Fair Credit Reporting Act, 15 USC 1681 et seq.