How Do You Find Out If You Have a Felony?
If you’re wondering whether you have a felony on your record, you’re not alone. Many people are curious about their criminal history and want to know if they have a felony or not. In this article, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to find out if you have a felony.
What is a Felony?
Before we dive into the process of finding out if you have a felony, let’s define what a felony is. A felony is a serious crime that is punishable by more than one year in prison. Felonies are typically considered more severe than misdemeanors, which are crimes punishable by less than one year in prison.
Why is it Important to Know if You Have a Felony?
Knowing whether you have a felony or not is important for several reasons:
- Employment: Having a felony on your record can affect your ability to get a job, especially in certain industries such as healthcare, finance, and education.
- Housing: Some landlords may not rent to individuals with a felony record.
- Education: Having a felony on your record can affect your ability to get financial aid for college or university.
- Travel: Having a felony on your record can affect your ability to travel to certain countries.
How to Find Out if You Have a Felony
Now that we’ve covered the importance of knowing if you have a felony, let’s get to the process of finding out. Here are the steps you can follow:
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Step 1: Check Your State’s Public Records
You can start by checking your state’s public records to see if you have a felony on your record. Most states have online databases that allow you to search for public records, including criminal records. You can visit your state’s official website or search for "public records" along with your state’s name to find the database.
Example:
- California: You can search for public records on the California Department of Justice’s website.
- New York: You can search for public records on the New York State Department of State’s website.
Step 2: Check with Your Local Police Department
If you’re unable to find any information on your state’s public records database, you can contact your local police department to ask if you have a felony on your record. They may be able to provide you with information on any arrests or convictions you may have.
Example:
- If you live in Los Angeles, you can contact the Los Angeles Police Department’s Records Division to ask about your criminal history.
Step 3: Check with the FBI
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) maintains a database of criminal records, including felonies. You can request a copy of your FBI criminal history report, which will show any felony convictions you may have.
Example:
- You can request a copy of your FBI criminal history report by submitting a request to the FBI’s Criminal Justice Information Services (CJIS) Division.
Step 4: Check with the Courts
If you’re still unable to find any information on your criminal history, you can contact the courts where you were arrested or convicted to ask about your record. They may be able to provide you with information on any felony convictions you may have.
Example:
- If you were arrested in New York City, you can contact the New York City Criminal Court to ask about your criminal history.
What to Do If You Find Out You Have a Felony
If you find out that you have a felony on your record, there are several steps you can take:
- Expunge Your Record: You may be able to expunge your felony record, which means that it will be sealed and not available to the public. However, not all states allow felony expungement, and the process can be complex.
- Seal Your Record: You may be able to seal your felony record, which means that it will not be available to the public. However, law enforcement and certain government agencies may still have access to your record.
- Seek Legal Advice: If you’re concerned about the impact of your felony record on your life, you may want to seek legal advice from an attorney who specializes in criminal law.
Conclusion
Finding out if you have a felony on your record can be a complex process, but it’s an important step in understanding your criminal history and taking steps to improve your life. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can find out if you have a felony and take steps to expunge or seal your record. Remember to always seek legal advice if you’re unsure about the process or the impact of your felony record on your life.
