How to Look Up Someone’s Criminal Record in Maryland
Introduction
In Maryland, it is possible to access public records of individuals’ criminal history, known as the Maryland Judiciary’s Judiciary Case Search (JCS). This database provides a wealth of information on an individual’s criminal past, including charges, convictions, and sentencing. In this article, we will guide you through the process of searching for someone’s criminal record in Maryland.
The Law
Before we dive into the process, it is essential to understand the law regarding access to criminal records in Maryland. According to the Maryland Public Information Act (MPIA), law enforcement agencies and the Maryland Judiciary are required to disclose public records, including criminal records, to the public upon request. However, some records may be restricted or exempt from disclosure under certain circumstances.
Search Methods
There are several ways to search for someone’s criminal record in Maryland:
- Online Search: The Maryland Judiciary’s JCS website allows you to search for criminal records online. You can access the website by visiting the Maryland Judiciary’s website (www.courts.state.md.us) and clicking on the "Judiciary Case Search" link.
- In-Person Search: You can also search for criminal records in person at the Maryland State Archives or at the Clerk of the Circuit Court office in the county where the individual was charged or convicted.
Online Search Criteria
To conduct an online search, you will need to provide the following criteria:
- Name: The individual’s full name, including any aliases.
- Date of Birth: The individual’s date of birth.
- Case Number: The case number, if known.
Search Results
Once you have entered the required criteria, you will be provided with a list of search results. The search results will include:
- Case Number: A unique identifier for each case.
- Name: The individual’s name, including any aliases.
- Date of Birth: The individual’s date of birth.
- Offense: The charges brought against the individual.
- Sentence: The sentence imposed by the court.
- Dispositions: The outcome of the case, such as guilty, not guilty, or dismissed.
Restrictions on Access
While the Maryland Judiciary’s JCS website provides public access to criminal records, there are some restrictions on access:
- Sexual Offender Information: The Maryland State Police website provides information on registered sexual offenders. However, some information may be restricted to protect the privacy of victims and their families.
- Juvenile Records: Records of juvenile offenders are not publicly available, except in limited circumstances.
- Sealed Records: Records that have been sealed by the court are not publicly available.
Fees
There is no fee to search for criminal records online. However, there may be a fee associated with obtaining copies of certain documents, such as:
- Certified Copies: Certified copies of documents may be required for use in legal proceedings. These copies are typically $5 to $10.
- Background Checks: Some organizations, such as employers or landlords, may require background checks, which can be obtained through the Maryland State Police for a fee.
Conclusion
In conclusion, searching for someone’s criminal record in Maryland is a relatively straightforward process. By following the steps outlined above, you can access public records of an individual’s criminal history through the Maryland Judiciary’s JCS website or in person at the Maryland State Archives or the Clerk of the Circuit Court office. Remember to always follow the law and respect the privacy of individuals who have been charged or convicted of crimes.
Important Tips
- Use accurate information: Ensure that you have accurate information when searching for someone’s criminal record, including the correct spelling of their name and date of birth.
- Be patient: Online searches may take some time to complete, so be patient and do not make assumptions about the results.
- Respect the privacy of others: Always respect the privacy of individuals who have been charged or convicted of crimes, and avoid sharing sensitive information.
Table: Search Results
| Case Number | Name | Date of Birth | Offense | Sentence | Dispositions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 123456 | John Doe | 01/01/1990 | Burglary | 5 years | Guilty |
Bullets List: Restrictions on Access
• Sexual Offender Information
• Juvenile Records
• Sealed Records
• Restricted Information
By following these guidelines, you can effectively search for someone’s criminal record in Maryland and access public records of an individual’s criminal history.
