Who Can See My Criminal Records?

Privacy is difficult to maintain in today’s society. Internet hacking is a more common criminal event than ever before, and our records are spread across the world as companies expand their facilities to gain access to inexpensive labor.

While once it was only those in the legal system who could gain access to your criminal records, it is not only much easier now with the spread of computers, but criminal records are often posted online so that the public can access them without a liaison into the legal system. There are many businesses that perform criminal background checks. Successful expungement is your best option to try to protect your privacy and your rights.

Having your records sealed means that you do not need to disclose your arrest or conviction when asked. This can mean the difference between success and failure if you are applying to rent an apartment, to go to a college or other professional school, or when asked by a potential employer if you have ever been convicted of a felony.

However, you should disclose your criminal record information to your attorney when asked, and certainly by a law enforcement officer or judge. They have access to sealed records.

Many government agencies, as well, can view your criminal records through the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) or the individual state versions of the Crime Information Center. When one applies for high security clearance, state office, or to be a law enforcement officer, for example, no records will be hidden or sealed.

The laws regarding DUI expungement vary between states and counties, so in some cases your arrest record can be easily viewed, whereas your convictions may not be accessible; or perhaps your entire record is visible. There are miriad combinations of criteria that affect the visibility of your criminal record, so the best option is to hire an experienced DUI lawyer to guide you.