Ask the Inmate

An arrest record can follow someone for years affecting employment housing professional licensing and personal relationships. Understanding what is in a record, how to find it, and what can be done about it is essential knowledge for anyone navigating the criminal justice system. This section covers how to search for arrest records using public databases and background check tools, what information arrest records typically contain, the difference between an arrest record and a conviction, and how records from multiple jurisdictions can be accessed in one search. Families use arrest record searches to locate a loved one who has been taken into custody, verify which facility they are being held at, and understand the charges they are facing. Individuals use them to understand what employers and landlords can see when they run a background check. The questions answered here address both audiences with practical guidance on finding accurate current information quickly. See also our sections on Inmate Search and Pending Criminal Charges.