How do I look up criminal records in Wisconsin?

How Do I Look Up Criminal Records in Wisconsin?

What You Need to Know

Criminal records can provide valuable information about an individual’s past criminal behavior and can be useful in a variety of situations, such as conducting background checks for employment or rental purposes. In Wisconsin, criminal records are maintained by the Wisconsin Department of Justice (DOJ) and are accessible to the public. However, there are specific procedures and guidelines that must be followed to obtain and review criminal records.

Why You May Need to Look Up Criminal Records in Wisconsin

There are several reasons why you may need to look up criminal records in Wisconsin, including:

• Employment: Some employers may require a background check as a condition of employment, particularly in industries such as healthcare, finance, and law enforcement.
• Rental Property: Landlords may conduct background checks on potential tenants to ensure they are not hiding a criminal past.
• Adoption: Potential adoptive parents may need to obtain a criminal background check as part of the adoption process.
• Business Transactions: Individuals conducting business transactions may want to verify the criminal history of a potential partner or contractor.

How to Look Up Criminal Records in Wisconsin

To look up criminal records in Wisconsin, you can follow these steps:

Step 1: Determine the Type of Record You Need

The Wisconsin DOJ maintains several types of criminal records, including:

• Convictions: Records of convictions for felony and misdemeanor crimes.
• Arrest Records: Records of arrests that did not result in a conviction.
• Juvenile Records: Records of juvenile crimes and court proceedings.

Step 2: Identify the Source of the Record

Criminal records can be obtained from several sources, including:

• Wisconsin Department of Justice (DOJ): The DOJ maintains records of convictions and arrests for felony and misdemeanor crimes.
• Local Law Enforcement: Local law enforcement agencies may maintain records of arrests and convictions for crimes that occurred within their jurisdiction.
• Courts: Wisconsin courts maintain records of criminal proceedings, including trials, pleas, and sentences.

Step 3: Follow the Access and Release Procedures

To access criminal records in Wisconsin, you must follow specific procedures and guidelines, including:

• Written Request: You must submit a written request to the appropriate agency or court to access the record.
• Fingerprinting: You may be required to provide fingerprints to verify your identity and ensure that you are the authorized person to access the record.
• Identification: You must provide valid identification, such as a driver’s license or government-issued ID, to access the record.
• Fees: There may be fees associated with accessing and copying criminal records, which vary depending on the agency or court.

How to Request a Criminal Record in Wisconsin

To request a criminal record in Wisconsin, you can follow these steps:

1. Fill out the Request Form: Download and complete the Request for Access to Criminal History Record Information form (BCI 1001) from the Wisconsin DOJ website.
2. Provide Required Information: Provide the required information, including your name, date of birth, and Social Security number (if applicable).
3. Submit the Request: Submit the completed form and required documentation to the Wisconsin DOJ or the appropriate local law enforcement agency.
4. Wait for a Response: The agency or court will review your request and respond with the results.

Fees for Criminal Records in Wisconsin

The fees for accessing and copying criminal records in Wisconsin vary depending on the agency or court. Here are some typical fees:

Tips for Obtaining Criminal Records in Wisconsin

Here are some tips to keep in mind when obtaining criminal records in Wisconsin:

• Be Specific: Be specific about the type of record you are requesting and the individual or entity you are searching for.
• Follow the Procedures: Follow the procedures and guidelines outlined by the agency or court to ensure that you obtain the correct information.
• Verify the Record: Verify the accuracy of the record by checking the source and reviewing the documentation.
• Keep Records Confidential: Keep any confidential or sensitive information obtained from the record confidential.

Conclusion

Looking up criminal records in Wisconsin can be a complex and time-consuming process, but it is an important step in verifying an individual’s past criminal behavior. By following the procedures and guidelines outlined in this article, you can ensure that you obtain the correct information and follow the law. Remember to be specific, follow the procedures, verify the record, and keep records confidential to ensure a successful and legally compliant search.