Looking For Free Arrest Records Online

By Christopher Evans


For employers who are checking potential applicants or those who want to make sure if they have records, they can do so by visiting the Office of Attorney General' website. California arrest records are public records; however, not all records are available to the public especially criminal records. Law enforcement agents and agencies that are authorized by the DOJ have the sole access to the records; however, one can retrieve one's own criminal records. For those who are looking for current inmates, they can do so by checking the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation site.

Residents of the State can avail of a background check of themselves by completing the Live Scan form, which they can download from the official website, or other online sites affiliated with the government's official website. After downloading the form, they can go to their sheriff's office or any local police department to have their fingerprint scanned. A $25 fee applies which is mandatorily set by the DOJ. Any excess fees may be charged by the fingerprint agency.

Out of state residents can also avail of the background check service. All applicants have to do is to download the State Summary Criminal History Records. The forms are available in English and Spanish and downloadable in PDF format. The applicant should go to the nearest fingerprint agency in their area and have their fingerprint scan. Payments are done through money order or check. aCash is not accepted, although fees charged by the fingerprint agency should be paid in the form that the agency deems acceptable.

The normal processing time takes about seven business days and for individuals who apply through agencies, they can get their result from the agency center. There are some cases when the processing will be extended and follow up is necessary to resolve the matter. Poor fingerprint quality scan, incorrect information and records with positive results are some of the common contributing factors causing processing delays. For follow up, applicants can avail of the automated phone system to make their inquiries.

There are some cases that can be removed by the applicant should there be a positive match to their check. Cases such as misdemeanour or minor cases are eligible for sealing or expungement. Request for the records to be "sealed and destroyed" still depends on the court handling the case. A probation case costs about $120 whereas cases without probation require a fee of $60.

For personal records, applicants can check their local law enforcement and request for any records pertaining to their own. Some law enforcement agencies have their own policies concerning requests so it is important to call the local department and ask the requirements before one goes in person. Applicants can also go to the court where the conviction was handed down and file for a request to obtain their personal records. It is possible to access arrest records through online means as well. There are companies that provide free or pay per request online. The government also has the Megan's Law, a free online tool, which can help locate sex offenders.




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