This article was co-authored by Clinton M. Sandvick, JD, PhD. Clinton M. Sandvick worked as a civil litigator in California for over 7 years. He received his JD from the University of Wisconsin-Madison in 1998 and his PhD in American History from the University of Oregon in 2013.
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A criminal record (a.k.a., a rap sheet) is a record of someone's criminal history. [1] X Research source Someone's criminal record is usually a culmination of local, state, and federal information. [2] X Research source Criminal records will usually include misdemeanor and felony convictions, pending charges, acquitted charges, and any ongoing criminal proceedings. [3] X Research source However, expunged convictions will usually not be included in any criminal record. [4] X Research source Common uses for criminal records include: employment, school admittance, military service, security clearance, buying a firearm, certain types of licensing, and law enforcement purposes. [5] X Research source If you need to access criminal records for a lawful purpose, follow the instructions below.