When it comes to background checks in the United States, many people wonder if arrest records are included. It’s a common question for job seekers, landlords, and even those curious about their own history. Understanding what shows up on a background check can help you prepare and address any concerns before they arise.
What Is an Arrest Record?
An arrest record is the reported details about someone being apprehended by a law enforcement agency. These reports include the date of the arrest, the charges, and booking details. Records of someone’s arrest are maintained by law enforcement agencies that took that person into custody. These reports can be accessed through a criminal records lookup.
Do Arrest Records Appear on Background Checks?
The short answer is yes, arrests can show up on background checks. However, that’s not always the case. If an arrest did not lead to a conviction for the alleged crime, then it can be expunged from record. This can be helpful to know if you’ve ever been in a situation where you were arrested and not convicted. You can have that wiped from your background record which means that it will not show up on job applications, or someone running a background check on you.
How Arrest Records Impact Opportunities
If you do end up being convicted of the crime you were arrested for, then it will show up on a background check. The presence of an arrest record on a background check can impact many aspects of life, including employment and housing. It’s important to know how these records might affect you and what steps you can take to mitigate any negative consequences.
Employers may view arrest records differently depending on the nature of the job and the company’s policies. Some employers may be more lenient, especially if the arrest did not lead to a conviction. However, certain industries, such as finance or healthcare, may have stricter policies regarding arrest records. It also depends on if the charges were a misdemeanor or felony. The severity of the criminal record is also a factor often weighed by employers.
Landlords often use background checks to screen potential tenants. An arrest record might raise concerns about a tenant’s reliability and their liability. However, a misdemeanor arrest without a conviction may not be a deal-breaker like a felony conviction will.
Certain colleges and licensing boards may also consider these records when making decisions for admission. For example, professional licenses may be denied or revoked if the arrest is relevant to the profession.
Traveling opportunities might also be limited. For example, if someone with a DUI arrest will not be allowed to enter certain countries like Canada.
Conducting an Arrest Records Search
If you’re curious about what might appear on your own background check, you might consider performing an arrest records search. This can give you a better understanding of your public record and help you prepare for any questions or situation you encounter that require you explaining yourself. Here is how you can run this search online:
- Online Databases: Many states offer online databases where you can search for arrest records by name. These databases may require a small fee.
- Local Law Enforcement: You can also request arrest records from the corresponding local law enforcement agencies. You may need to provide identification and possibly pay a fee for a copy of your record.
- Background Check Services: Several companies offer background check services that include this information. These services can provide a comprehensive record of what’s in your past that others can see.
