How Can I Run a Criminal Background Check on Myself?
Running a criminal background check on yourself can be a great way to ensure you are not hiding any potential legal issues that could affect your personal or professional life. It’s essential to know your own criminal history before applying for jobs, apartments, or other opportunities where a background check is required. In this article, we will guide you through the process of running a criminal background check on yourself.
What Information Can I Expect to Find?
Before running a criminal background check, it’s essential to understand what information you can expect to find. A criminal background check typically includes:
• Felony and misdemeanor convictions: Information on any felony or misdemeanor convictions, including the charges, dates, and dispositions (e.g., guilty, not guilty, or dismissed).
• Arrests and charges: Information on any arrests, charges, and disposition (e.g., charges dropped, acquitted, or convicted).
• Court records: Information on any court records, including divorce, bankruptcy, or civil court cases.
• Driver’s license information: Information on any suspended or revoked driver’s licenses.
How to Run a Criminal Background Check on Yourself
There are several ways to run a criminal background check on yourself, and the method you choose will depend on your specific needs and circumstances. Here are a few options:
Option 1: Federal Background Check
- Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI): The FBI provides a system for individuals to request a copy of their own FBI background check report. You can do this by filling out Form FD-258, Fingerprint Card, and submitting it to the FBI along with a $10 processing fee.
- FBI Identification Record Request: You can also submit an online request through the FBI’s Identification Record Request portal.
Option 2: State and Local Background Check
- State Police or Attorney General’s Office: Contact your state’s police or attorney general’s office to inquire about their process for requesting a criminal background check.
- Local Court or Police Department: Contact your local court or police department to request a criminal background check.
Option 3: Online Background Check Services
- Online background check services: There are several online background check services that allow you to request a criminal background check. These services may offer additional information, such as:
- Criminal records: Information on any criminal convictions or charges.
- Criminal mugshots: Images of your mugshots (if available).
- Criminal history scores: Scores based on your criminal history.
Benefits of Running a Criminal Background Check on Yourself
Running a criminal background check on yourself can have several benefits:
- Transparency: Knowing your own criminal history can help you avoid situations where you may be required to disclose information you don’t want to share.
- Professional Opportunities: A clean criminal record can open up more job opportunities and improve your chances of getting hired.
- Personal Peace of Mind: Knowing your own criminal history can give you peace of mind and help you avoid potential legal issues.
What to Do if You Find Incriminating Information
If you find incriminating information during your criminal background check, it’s essential to:
- Seek Legal Advice: Consult with a legal professional to understand your options and any potential legal implications.
- Disclose Information: If you are required to disclose your criminal history, be honest and transparent about your findings.
- Take Corrective Action: If you find any errors or inaccuracies in your report, work to correct them and take steps to improve your criminal history.
Conclusion
Running a criminal background check on yourself can be a valuable tool for personal and professional growth. By understanding your own criminal history, you can avoid potential legal issues, improve your job prospects, and gain peace of mind. Remember to choose a reputable method for your background check, and if you find incriminating information, seek legal advice and take corrective action.
