How To Find Old Arrest Records Using New Laws in 2023 (Search Anyone)

Whether it’s to get ready for a job interview or just to ensure all the records are correct, many people wonder how to find old arrest records.

Fortunately, new laws in 2023 have made it easier than ever to find old arrests and search anyone’s criminal history record.

The process varies slightly for finding public records, based on jurisdiction, so users should be aware of any legal requirements about using old arrest records and know that the laws can change frequently.

How To Find Old Arrest Records for Free

Finding old arrest records for free is an easy process that just about anyone can do.

There are two main ways to find old arrest records for free: The DIY method, which examines public records stored in government locations, or by using a reputable background check agency that offers a test background check for free.

Note: Fees will differ depending on which state the record is being requested from. For example,  California’s background screening process requires a fee of $25 and must include fingerprints (which also have a fee).

DIY Public Records Search

Although it requires slightly more work than simply hiring a background check agency, the DIY method for finding old arrest records is still a great option. Arrest records are generally held by the county in which the arrest occurred.

The method for finding recent arrest information and old arrest records is usually done through the county clerk, through an online or in-person request, but it can also be done at the local law enforcement agency, like when learning how to find out arrest details by using a police report.

Detailed steps for each state are provided below.

Some people wondering how to find old arrest records may be looking for federal arrest records. Federal records are even easier to search than most states or counties.

The Federal Bureau of Prisons maintains a searchable online database. Simply enter the name of the individual and the results will be available immediately.

The Federal Bureau of Prisons catalogs mugshots from convicted and incarcerated offenders, and the website is very easy to search.

Background Check Service

Probably the easiest way to find old arrest records is to use a reputable background check service that can obtain arrest records. These agencies generally require a fee, however many background check services offer free trials or membership discounts. Background check agencies can be a great and quick solution for those trying to figure out how to find old arrest records. 

How To Search Old Arrest Records by US County

The best way to find old arrest records at the county level is through the county clerk. Keep in mind this will be a basic background check and will not show out-of-state records like with a deeper background investigation.

The county clerk is generally in charge of all public records, including those involving criminal activity, but is generally not the place to determine if someone’s arrested. For that, choose the county sheriff’s office. The sheriff’s office or district police station is also good at knowing how to find out what someone was arrested for.

Detailed steps to search arrest records through the county clerk are outlined below but keep in mind the process can vary slightly depending on the jurisdiction.

Step 1: Access the County Clerk Website

If the local county clerk has a website, this should be the first stop. Information on how records are accessible and contact information is just some of the useful information on their website.

Example: 

In Los Angeles County, records are kept by the Los Angeles County Registrar-recorder/ County Clerk

Step 2: Locate Public Information Request Information

Each county clerk’s website should have a section with information about making a public information or public records request. What is on this page will vary slightly but generally, there will be one of the following:

• An online public records request portal
• An online public records request form
• Information on how to submit a request

Example:

The Los Angeles County Clerk website has a page with information on how to submit a public information request. 

Step 3: Fill out the Required Forms and Submit the Request

There are normally a few forms to fill out with basic information both on the requester and the information that is being requested. Simply fill out the form, provide any associated processing fees and submit the results. Generally, results should be available within 3-5 business days.

Example:

The Los Angeles County Clerk requires individuals to fill out a Public Records Act Request and to mail or email the completed form.

Find Old Alabama Arrest Records

The following lists contain county clerk contact information for all 50 states’ largest counties.

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Search Old Federal Arrest Records (Using Archived Criminal Justice Information)

When deciding how to find old arrest records, if the records are too old, a different approach may be necessary. In some cases, records can not be accessed by local court clerks because the records are more than 15 years old. When this occurs it will be necessary to use the national archives to search for records. In other words, searching for felony convictions (and a federal arrest record) is different than searching local and state databases.

Note: Searching for warrants requires a different method also known as finding federal warrant information.

The quickest way to search through records in the national archives is by using the website’s catalog search. Simply enter keywords such as a name or district court to find records on arrests and other court documents.

The National Archive can be used to search for specific old arrest records.

For individuals that still can not locate the documents they are looking for, it may be worthwhile to reference the table provided by the national archives that shows which archives office to contact about certain records, based on location. Simply reach out to the office via email to assist with record finding.

There are many options to find various public records from anywhere with an internet connection, including ways to learn about arrest circumstances. Although some methods may be quicker or cheaper than others, there are plenty of options to fit an individual’s specific needs when it comes to how to find old arrest records.

Frequently Asked Questions About How To Find Old Arrest Records