How to Find Out if a Felon Has Had His Records Sealed

Sealed records may be difficult to access.

A person's past felony record is usually available to the public for review. However, under certain circumstances and for certain crimes, a felon may request a court to have a particular record sealed. Once sealed, any information related to the arrest, trial and conviction are not available to the general public. Unlike expunged records that require a court order to reveal, a sealed record may be accessed by courts, law enforcement and some employers immediately.

Things You'll Need

• Felon's personal information
• Access to public records

Instructions

1. Gather together as much personal information as possible about the felon. Name, address, social security number, current and former addresses are all helpful for an accurate search.

2. Access the public records. If you know the place where a felon's crime occurred, visit the court or go online to the court's website to view the criminal record of the felon. If you are not sure of where the felon's crime was committed, you may need to pay for a basic criminal background check from a private investigator or a search company online.

3. If records are sealed, you will not be able to see any information related to a conviction. However, most states allow employers that are in government, health and child services to view these records. If you fall within these categories, you will be able to view sealed records.

Tips & Warnings

• Unless permitted by law, it is a crime for anyone to show you records that have been sealed by a court.

References

• State of Illinois: How To Clear Your Illinois Criminal Record
• Florida Department of Law Enforcement: Frequently Asked Questions