North Carolina criminal case lookup helps individuals quickly find court records, arrest details, and case status across the state. Whether you need to check a criminal case by case number in North Carolina or search by name and date of birth, public access tools make it possible to retrieve key information. Residents often use NC criminal case lookup to verify court dates, view docket entries, or confirm if a record has been expunged. The North Carolina Courts eCourts portal offers a free North Carolina criminal case lookup option, allowing users to search district and superior court records by county. This includes Mecklenburg County criminal case lookup, Wake County criminal case search, and Guilford County criminal records search. Employers, legal professionals, and private individuals rely on these tools to run a criminal background check in North Carolina or verify an inmate’s status through NC inmate search by name. With accurate data and user-friendly search filters, accessing North Carolina criminal records online saves time and supports informed decisions.
North Carolina criminal case lookup by name or case number gives users direct access to felony and misdemeanor records, warrant information, and court calendars. The NC court records search by name feature lets you find criminal dockets, view upcoming hearings, and check if outstanding warrants exist in North Carolina. For those needing official documents, a paid North Carolina criminal records search may provide certified copies, while free North Carolina criminal case lookup tools offer basic details at no cost. You can also perform a North Carolina arrest records search, locate booking information, or review sex offender registry data through state-approved portals. Understanding how to search criminal records in North Carolina ensures you get reliable results for personal, legal, or employment purposes. From checking expungement status to viewing appellate criminal opinions, these resources support transparency and accountability across NC district and superior courts.
North Carolina Criminal Case Lookup System
The North Carolina Criminal Case Lookup system provides public access to criminal case records maintained by the state’s unified court system. This online portal allows users to search for active and closed criminal cases filed in district and superior courts across all 100 counties. Records include case filings, docket entries, hearing dates, charges, dispositions, and sentencing information. Access is provided through the North Carolina Courts website, which serves as the official repository for judicial records. The system supports searches by name, case number, date of birth, and other identifiers. All data reflects official court filings and is updated regularly to ensure accuracy. Users should note that certain records may be restricted due to expungement, sealing orders, or juvenile status.
Accessing the Criminal Case Lookup Portal
The primary access point for criminal case records is the North Carolina Courts Public Portal, available at www.nccourts.gov. The portal requires no registration for basic searches and is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Users can perform searches from any device with internet access. The interface is designed for ease of use, with clear search fields and filtering options. Results display case summaries, and users can click on individual cases to view detailed docket entries and documents where available. The system supports both desktop and mobile access, ensuring broad usability across different platforms.
Search Methods and Options
Users can search criminal cases using multiple criteria. The most common method is by party name, which requires entering the last name and first name of the defendant. The system allows partial name matches and includes phonetic search capabilities to account for spelling variations. Case number search is also available for users who have a specific docket number. Additional search options include date of birth, county of filing, and case type. For enhanced accuracy, combining name with date of birth is recommended, especially in counties with high population density. The system does not require exact spelling but may return multiple results when common names are used.
Understanding Search Results
Search results display a summary of matching cases, including the defendant’s name, case number, filing date, court location, and charge level. Each result includes a link to the full case record, which contains the complete docket history. The docket shows all filings, motions, hearings, and rulings in chronological order. Users can view hearing dates, judge assignments, attorney information, and disposition details. Document images, such as indictments or sentencing orders, are available for many cases, though some may be restricted. The system indicates when a record has been expunged or sealed, though the details of such records are not accessible to the public.
Types of Criminal Cases in North Carolina
North Carolina criminal cases are classified into two primary categories: felonies and misdemeanors. Felonies are more serious offenses and are handled in superior court, while misdemeanors are less severe and typically processed in district court. Each category includes multiple sub-classifications based on the nature and severity of the offense. The court system maintains separate dockets for each case type, and users must select the appropriate court division when conducting searches. Understanding these distinctions helps users locate the correct records and interpret case outcomes accurately.
Felony Cases
Felony cases involve serious criminal offenses such as murder, robbery, sexual assault, and drug trafficking. These cases are prosecuted in superior court and may carry penalties including imprisonment for more than one year, fines, or both. Felonies are further classified into classes (A through I), with Class A being the most severe. The case process includes grand jury indictment, arraignment, pretrial motions, trial, and sentencing. Records for felony cases are maintained indefinitely unless expunged by court order. Users can identify felony charges in search results by the charge level listed in the docket.
Misdemeanor Cases
Misdemeanor cases include less serious offenses such as simple assault, petty theft, trespassing, and minor drug possession. These cases are handled in district court and typically result in penalties of up to 150 days in jail, fines, or community service. Misdemeanors are classified into classes A1, 1, 2, and 3, with A1 being the most severe. The process involves citation or arrest, initial appearance, trial, and disposition. Misdemeanor records remain accessible unless sealed or expunged. Users should note that some misdemeanor cases may be resolved through diversion programs, which could affect the public record.
Infractions and Other Proceedings
In addition to felonies and misdemeanors, the system includes records for infractions such as traffic violations and local ordinance violations. These are not considered criminal offenses but are processed through the court system. Records for infractions are limited and may not include full docket details. Other proceedings, such as probation violations, post-conviction motions, and appeals, are also recorded and accessible through the lookup system. Users searching for these types of cases should use the case number or party name for accurate retrieval.
Court Divisions and Jurisdiction
North Carolina’s court system is divided into district and superior courts, each with distinct responsibilities for criminal cases. District courts handle misdemeanors, preliminary hearings for felonies, and certain civil matters. Superior courts have jurisdiction over felony trials, appeals from district court, and complex civil cases. Each of the state’s 100 counties has at least one district court location, while superior courts are located in county seats and major judicial districts. Users must identify the correct court division when searching for records, as case filings are specific to the court where the charge was processed.
District Court Criminal Proceedings
District courts are the entry point for most criminal cases in North Carolina. They conduct initial appearances, set bail, and handle misdemeanor trials. For felony cases, district courts hold probable cause hearings to determine if the case should proceed to superior court. These courts also manage pretrial release conditions, probation supervision, and violation hearings. Records from district court include arrest warrants, charging documents, and disposition orders. Users can search district court records by county or case number through the public portal.
Superior Court Criminal Proceedings
Superior courts handle felony trials, sentencing, and post-conviction matters. Once a felony case is bound over from district court, it is assigned to superior court for trial. These courts also hear appeals from district court convictions and conduct hearings on motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges. Superior court records include trial transcripts, jury verdicts, and sentencing documents. Access to these records is provided through the same lookup system, with filters available to narrow results by court location and case type.
Appellate Court Records
Criminal appeals from superior court are heard by the North Carolina Court of Appeals and, in some cases, the North Carolina Supreme Court. Appellate opinions and case summaries are published online and accessible through the courts’ website. These records include legal reasoning, case outcomes, and citations to precedent. While the criminal case lookup system focuses on trial court records, appellate decisions are linked where applicable. Users researching legal precedent or case outcomes should consult both trial and appellate records for a complete picture.
Searching by Case Number and Name
Case number and name searches are the most reliable methods for locating criminal records in North Carolina. Case numbers are assigned sequentially when a charge is filed and remain with the case throughout its lifecycle. Name searches are useful when the case number is unknown but may return multiple results. Combining name with date of birth increases accuracy, especially in larger counties. The system allows users to refine results by county, charge type, and filing date. Both search methods are available on the homepage of the public portal.
Using Case Numbers
Case numbers in North Carolina follow a standardized format that includes the county code, court type, year, and sequence number. For example, a district court case in Wake County filed in 2023 might appear as 23CR012345. Superior court cases use a similar format with a different prefix. Users can enter the full case number into the search field to retrieve the record directly. This method is recommended for legal professionals, employers, or individuals with specific case information. Case numbers are printed on court documents, citations, and arrest records.
Conducting Name-Based Searches
Name searches require entering the defendant’s last name and first name. The system supports partial matches and will return all records with similar names. Users should include middle initials or suffixes when known to narrow results. The search is not case-sensitive and accommodates common spelling variations. Results are sorted by relevance and include the defendant’s name, case number, and filing date. Clicking on a result opens the full docket. Name searches are ideal for background checks or verifying personal records.
Combining Search Criteria
For improved accuracy, users can combine name with date of birth, county, or charge type. The system allows multiple filters to be applied simultaneously. For example, searching for “John Smith” with a date of birth of “05/15/1980” and county “Mecklenburg” will return only matching records from that jurisdiction. This method reduces the number of irrelevant results and speeds up the search process. Filters are available on the advanced search page of the portal.
Viewing Dockets and Case Documents
Once a case is located, users can view the full docket, which lists all filings, hearings, and court actions in chronological order. Each docket entry includes the date, document type, description, and filing party. Users can click on individual entries to view document images where available. Common documents include complaints, indictments, motions, orders, and sentencing reports. Not all documents are publicly accessible; some may be sealed or redacted due to privacy laws or court orders. The docket also shows hearing dates, judge assignments, and attorney information.
Docket Entry Details
Each docket entry provides specific information about a filing or court action. For example, an entry might read: “03/15/2023 – Motion to Suppress Evidence – Filed by Defense Attorney.” This indicates the date, type of filing, and the party who submitted it. Users can track the progress of a case by reviewing the sequence of entries. Disposition entries show the final outcome, such as “Guilty Plea” or “Dismissed.” The docket also includes notices of hearing, continuances, and bench warrant issuances.
Accessing Document Images
Many docket entries include links to scanned document images. These are typically in PDF format and can be viewed, downloaded, or printed. Documents such as indictments, arrest warrants, and sentencing orders are commonly available. However, some documents, including juvenile records, mental health evaluations, and certain victim-related filings, are restricted. The system indicates when a document is not accessible and provides a reason, such as “Sealed by Court Order.” Users should respect these restrictions and avoid attempting to circumvent them.
Understanding Disposition Codes
Disposition entries use standardized codes to indicate the outcome of a case. Common codes include “CONV” for conviction, “DISM” for dismissal, “PLEA” for guilty plea, and “ACQ” for acquittal. These codes are listed in the docket and help users quickly assess the case result. A key to disposition codes is available on the courts’ website. Users should interpret these codes in context, as some cases may have multiple charges with different outcomes. For example, a defendant may be convicted on one charge and acquitted on another.
Court Calendars and Hearing Dates
Court calendars list upcoming hearings, trials, and motions for criminal cases. These calendars are updated daily and are accessible through the public portal. Users can search calendars by court location, date range, or case type. Calendars show the time, courtroom, judge, and case number for each hearing. This information is useful for attorneys, defendants, and the public who wish to observe proceedings. Calendars are available for both district and superior courts and can be filtered by county.
Locating Hearing Schedules
To find a hearing date, users can search the court calendar using the case number or party name. The calendar will display all scheduled events for the selected case. Users can also browse daily or weekly calendars for a specific court. Calendars are organized by date and include both criminal and civil matters. Criminal hearings are marked with a “CR” prefix in the case number. Users should verify hearing times before attending, as schedules may change due to continuances or judicial availability.
Types of Hearings
Criminal cases involve various types of hearings, each with a specific purpose. Initial appearances occur shortly after arrest and involve reading charges and setting bail. Pretrial hearings address motions and discovery issues. Trials may be bench or jury, depending on the charge and defendant’s choice. Sentencing hearings occur after conviction and determine the penalty. Probation violation hearings address breaches of release conditions. Each hearing type is listed on the calendar with a brief description.
Public Access to Hearings
Most criminal hearings are open to the public, in accordance with North Carolina law. Observers must follow courtroom rules, including dress code and electronic device restrictions. Some hearings, such as those involving juveniles or sensitive evidence, may be closed by court order. Users can confirm public access status by reviewing the calendar or contacting the court clerk. Live streaming is available for some courts, though not all proceedings are broadcast.
Arrest and Inmate Records
Arrest records and inmate information are maintained by local law enforcement agencies and the North Carolina Department of Public Safety. While the court system does not directly manage jail records, it provides links to county sheriff websites and the state’s inmate lookup tool. Arrest records include booking details, charges, and release information. Inmate records show current incarceration status, location, and projected release dates. These records are updated regularly but may not reflect real-time changes.
County Sheriff Inmate Lookup
Each county sheriff’s office operates an online inmate search system. These systems allow users to search by name, booking number, or date of birth. Results include the inmate’s photo, charges, bond amount, and housing location. Users can access these tools through the sheriff’s website or via links on the courts’ portal. Inmate records are public information, though some details may be withheld for security reasons. Release dates are estimates and subject to change based on court rulings or parole decisions.
State Inmate Search
The North Carolina Department of Public Safety maintains a statewide inmate database for individuals incarcerated in state prisons. This system, known as the Offender Public Information Repository, provides detailed records for convicted felons serving sentences of one year or more. Users can search by name, DOC number, or date of birth. Records include sentencing information, facility location, and visitation schedules. The database is updated daily and is accessible through the NCDPS website.
Arrest Warrants and Citations
Active arrest warrants are recorded in the court system and may appear in criminal case searches. Warrants include the defendant’s name, charges, issuing judge, and bond amount. Citations for misdemeanors and infractions are also filed and accessible. Users should note that warrant information is not always immediately updated, and individuals with outstanding warrants should contact the court or law enforcement directly. The system does not provide real-time warrant status.
Expungement and Record Sealing
North Carolina allows certain criminal records to be expunged or sealed under specific conditions. Expungement removes records from public view, while sealing restricts access but maintains the record for law enforcement use. Eligibility depends on the offense, conviction status, and time elapsed. The court system indicates when a record has been expunged or sealed, though the details are not accessible. Users conducting background checks should be aware that expunged records may still appear in some databases until updated.
Expungement Process
To request expungement, individuals must file a petition with the court where the charge was processed. The petition includes personal information, case details, and a statement of eligibility. The court reviews the request and may hold a hearing. If granted, the order directs all agencies to destroy or return records. Expungement is available for dismissals, acquittals, and certain minor convictions after a waiting period. The process can take several months and may require legal assistance.
Record Sealing
Record sealing is available for certain non-violent felonies and misdemeanors after a period of clean conduct. Sealed records are not destroyed but are inaccessible to the public. Law enforcement and court officials retain access for official purposes. The sealing process is similar to expungement and requires a court order. Users searching for sealed records will see a notation but cannot view the details. Sealing does not restore civil rights or firearm privileges.
Checking Expungement Status
Users can verify if a record has been expunged or sealed by searching the criminal case lookup system. If a record is restricted, the system will display a message indicating the status. Individuals can also contact the court clerk for confirmation. Employers and background check companies must comply with expungement orders and may face penalties for accessing restricted records. It is the responsibility of the record holder to ensure compliance.
Background Checks and Employment Screening
Employers in North Carolina may conduct criminal background checks on job applicants, subject to state and federal laws. The criminal case lookup system is a primary source for public records, but employers should use additional verification methods. Background checks must comply with the Fair Credit Reporting Act and North Carolina’s expungement laws. Employers cannot discriminate based on criminal history unless it is job-related and consistent with business necessity.
Conducting Employer Background Checks
Employers can use the public portal to search for criminal records by name and date of birth. For more comprehensive checks, third-party background screening services are recommended. These services access multiple databases and verify records with court clerks. Employers must obtain written consent from applicants before conducting a background check. Results should be reviewed for accuracy, and applicants must be given a chance to dispute discrepancies.
Legal Restrictions on Use
North Carolina law limits the use of criminal history in employment decisions. Employers cannot automatically disqualify applicants based on arrests without convictions. Expunged or sealed records must not be considered. Certain industries, such as education and healthcare, have additional restrictions. Employers should consult legal counsel to ensure compliance with state and federal regulations.
Accuracy and Dispute Resolution
Users should verify the accuracy of criminal records before making decisions. Errors can occur due to name similarities, data entry mistakes, or outdated information. Individuals can request a review from the court clerk if they believe a record is incorrect. The court will investigate and correct errors if confirmed. Employers must provide applicants with a copy of the report and a summary of their rights if adverse action is taken.
County-Specific Criminal Records Search
Criminal records are maintained at the county level, and users must select the correct jurisdiction when searching. Each of North Carolina’s 100 counties has its own court system and record-keeping procedures. Larger counties, such as Mecklenburg, Wake, and Guilford, have dedicated online portals with advanced search features. Smaller counties may have limited online access, requiring in-person visits to the clerk’s office. The state portal aggregates records from all counties, but users should confirm the filing location when possible.
Mecklenburg County Criminal Case Lookup
Mecklenburg County provides a robust online search system for criminal cases. Users can search by name, case number, or date of birth. The system includes docket details, document images, and court calendars. The county also offers a mobile app for on-the-go access. Records are updated daily, and users can sign up for email alerts on specific cases. The clerk’s office provides assistance for complex searches or document requests.
Wake County Criminal Case Search
Wake County’s criminal case lookup tool allows users to search by party name, case number, or attorney. The system displays docket entries, hearing dates, and disposition information. Users can filter results by court type and charge level. The county also provides access to jury trial schedules and sentencing reports. In-person assistance is available at the courthouse for users needing help with searches or document retrieval.
Guilford County Criminal Records Search
Guilford County maintains an online portal for criminal case records, including district and superior court filings. Users can search by name, case number, or date of birth. The system includes docket details, document images, and court calendars. The county also offers a public access terminal at the courthouse for users without internet access. Records are updated regularly, and users can request certified copies for a fee.
Sex Offender Registry and Public Safety
The North Carolina Sex Offender Registry is maintained by the State Bureau of Investigation and provides public access to information about registered offenders. The registry includes names, photographs, addresses, and offense details. Users can search by name, location, or zip code. The information is updated regularly and is used for community safety and awareness. The registry is separate from the court case lookup system but is linked for reference.
Searching the Sex Offender Registry
Users can access the registry through the NCSBI website. The search tool allows queries by name, county, or proximity to a specific address. Results include the offender’s photo, physical description, and conviction information. Users can also sign up for email alerts when a registered offender moves into their area. The registry is intended for public safety and should not be used for harassment or discrimination.
Registry Requirements and Compliance
Individuals convicted of certain sex offenses must register with local law enforcement and update their information regularly. Failure to comply can result in additional charges. The registry includes both Level I, II, and III offenders, with Level III being the highest risk. The court system does not manage the registry but may provide links to the official site. Users should verify information with law enforcement if accuracy is in question.
Contact Information and Court Services
For assistance with criminal case searches, users can contact the clerk of court in the relevant county. Each clerk’s office provides support for record requests, document certification, and procedural questions. Contact information, including phone numbers and office hours, is listed on the courts’ website. Some counties offer online chat or email support for basic inquiries. For technical issues with the portal, users can contact the North Carolina Courts IT support team.
Clerk of Court Offices
The clerk of court is responsible for maintaining criminal records and providing public access. Each county has a clerk’s office located in the courthouse. Staff can assist with search requests, document retrieval, and fee payments. Some offices offer appointment scheduling for complex requests. Users should bring valid identification when visiting in person. Contact details for each office are available on the state courts website.
Online Support and Resources
The North Carolina Courts website includes a help section with search tips, video tutorials, and FAQs. Users can download forms, view court calendars, and access legal resources. The site also provides links to county-specific portals and external agencies. For technical support, the IT help desk can be reached by phone or email during business hours. Response times vary based on the nature of the request.
Fees and Payment Options
Access to criminal case records is generally free through the public portal. However, fees may apply for certified copies, document printing, or expedited services. Fees vary by county and are listed on the clerk’s website. Payment can be made online, by mail, or in person using cash, check, or credit card. Some counties offer fee waivers for low-income individuals or non-profit organizations. Users should confirm costs before submitting requests.
Certified Document Fees
Certified copies of court documents require a fee, typically ranging from $5 to $25 per document. Certification confirms the document’s authenticity and is required for legal proceedings. Fees are paid to the clerk’s office and may include processing charges. Users can request certification online or in person. Processing times vary from same-day to several business days, depending on the request volume.
Online Payment Systems
Many counties accept online payments through secure portals. Users can pay fees using credit or debit cards. Receipts are emailed upon completion. For mailed requests, checks or money orders should be made payable to the clerk of court. In-person payments are accepted at the courthouse during business hours. Users should retain payment confirmations for their records.
Data Structure and Record Accuracy
The criminal case lookup system relies on data entered by court clerks and law enforcement agencies. While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, errors can occur due to manual entry or system updates. Users should verify critical information with the clerk’s office. The system is updated nightly, and changes may not appear immediately. Discrepancies should be reported to the court for correction. The state conducts periodic audits to maintain data integrity.
Record Update Frequency
Case records are updated daily, with new filings and dispositions added within 24 hours. Docket entries are posted as they are processed by the clerk’s office. Document images may take longer to upload, especially for older cases. Users should check the last updated date on the record to confirm currency. Real-time updates are not available, and users should not rely on the system for urgent legal decisions without verification.
Data Sources and Integration
Records are sourced from court filings, law enforcement reports, and probation departments. The system integrates data from multiple agencies to provide a comprehensive view. However, not all agencies submit data electronically, which can cause delays. The state is working to improve data sharing and reduce discrepancies. Users should be aware that some records, such as those from federal courts, are not included in the state system.
Limitations and Restrictions
The criminal case lookup system has certain limitations that users should understand. Not all records are available online, especially those from older cases or closed courts. Some documents are restricted due to privacy laws or court orders. The system does not provide legal advice or interpretation of records. Users are responsible for verifying information and complying with applicable laws. Misuse of the system or its data may result in legal consequences.
Access Restrictions
Juvenile records, mental health proceedings, and certain victim-related documents are not publicly accessible. Expunged or sealed records are indicated but not viewable. Some counties limit online access to recent cases, requiring in-person requests for older files. Users should respect these restrictions and avoid attempting to access restricted information. Violations may result in civil or criminal penalties.
System Availability
The portal is generally available 24/7, but maintenance may cause temporary outages. Scheduled maintenance occurs on weekends, and users are notified in advance. During outages, users can contact the clerk’s office for assistance. The system may also experience slow performance during peak usage times. Users should plan searches accordingly and allow extra time for complex requests.
Additional Resources and Tools
In addition to the criminal case lookup system, the North Carolina Courts website offers tools for legal research, court forms, and self-help resources. Users can access jury duty information, small claims guides, and family law assistance. The site also provides links to legal aid organizations and pro bono services. These resources support public understanding of the court system and promote access to justice.
Legal Research Tools
The courts’ website includes a legal research section with case law, statutes, and court rules. Users can search appellate opinions, procedural guidelines, and local court rules. These tools are useful for attorneys, students, and self-represented litigants. The site also offers video tutorials on common legal processes, such as filing motions or requesting expungement.
Self-Help and Forms
Free legal forms are available for common court actions, including expungement petitions, name changes, and protective orders. Forms are downloadable and include instructions for completion. The site also provides self-help guides for navigating court procedures without an attorney. These resources are designed to assist individuals with limited legal knowledge.
Community and Educational Resources
The courts offer educational programs for schools, community groups, and civic organizations. These include courthouse tours, mock trials, and speaker presentations. The goal is to increase public understanding of the judicial system and promote civic engagement. Information on upcoming events
is posted on the website and social media channels.
Frequently Asked Questions
North Carolina Criminal Case Lookup helps you find public criminal records fast. You can search by name, case number, or county. The system covers district and superior courts in all 100 counties. It shows charges, court dates, dispositions, and sentencing. Anyone can use it for free online. Employers, landlords, and individuals rely on it for background checks. The portal is updated regularly, so you get current information. Use it to verify case status, check for warrants, or review past records.
How do I perform a North Carolina criminal case lookup by name?
Go to the NC Courts website and open the criminal case search tool. Enter the full name as it appears in court records. Include a county if known to narrow results. Click search to view matching cases. You’ll see case numbers, charges, court locations, and hearing dates. This method works best when you have accurate spelling and location details. It’s free and available 24/7.
Can I search NC criminal case lookup by case number?
Yes, you can search NC criminal case lookup by case number directly. Visit the official NC Courts portal and select the case number search option. Enter the full case number, including letters and dashes. The system will display the case file, docket entries, and current status. This is the fastest way to get precise results. It’s ideal for tracking court dates or verifying dispositions.
Where can I find free North Carolina criminal case lookup services?
The official NC Courts website offers free North Carolina criminal case lookup access. No registration or fee is required. You can search by name, case number, or county. Results include charges, court dates, and case outcomes. Avoid third-party sites that charge fees for public data. The state portal is reliable, secure, and updated daily. Use it for background checks, legal research, or personal records.
How do I check criminal case status in North Carolina online?
Use the North Carolina online criminal case lookup tool on the NC Courts site. Enter the person’s name or case number. Review the docket for the latest entries, including motions, hearings, and rulings. The status field shows if the case is active, closed, or pending. You can also see future court dates. This helps track progress without visiting the courthouse.
Can employers run a criminal background check in NC using public records?
Yes, employers can use the North Carolina criminal background check system. Access the public portal to search names or case numbers. Review charges, convictions, and dispositions. Some records may require written consent under state law. Always follow FCRA guidelines when using results for hiring. The free lookup covers most cases, but sealed or expunged records won’t appear.