That’s right. Anyone can search countywide criminal records free of charge. All that’s required is a trip to the local courthouse where the records are housed and maintained. If you are retired and/or have plenty of time on your hands, this is the recommended course of action. Time is the factor because courthouse research is tedious and very time-consuming to the average citizen. Most courthouses are divided with county criminal records in one section, county civil recordings in another and federal and family courts often in separate building or cities. You will have to call the clerk in advance to research where to go and most often times seek their assistance when you get there. Long lines can also be an issue. Other than a personal visit to the courthouse, criminal records cannot be obtained free of charge. Anyone advertising free online criminal record searches is scamming you, either to buy outdated subscription software and/or useless identity theft protection. Stay clear of free criminal records offerings.
An alternative approach for those with less time on their hands is to hire a respected state licensed private investigator. Docusearch Investigations conducts criminal courthouse research in over 4700 counties nationwide and only charges $29 per court searched.
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