Iowa Criminal Records Search

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How to Check for Iowa Criminal Records

The Criminal History Record Dissemination Unit is the entity responsible for criminal background record checks for the state. They allow you to request copies through the mail, in person, by fax and also using their website. However, the records retrieved may not be adequate for some purposes. You can request special “certified copies” for additional fees. The fee for a regular search is $15 each. No juvenile records will be accessible via these sources. You may also use a third-party website to search for and access someone’s criminal background.

Federal Records vs. Court Criminal Records in Iowa

Iowa uses The PACER Case Locator (PCL) system exclusively for public search and retrieval of federal court documents. They have it integrated with their own website. You will need to sign up for a free account. You have to pay .10 per page for a maximum of $3 per case. For local cases, you can visit the courthouse in person to request copies and pay a fee or check the district website to see if they allow searches online.

How Long do Felony or Misdemeanor Charges Last?

Most felonies and misdemeanors will stay on your record forever. Very few ever get expunged. Charges that did not result in any convictions are eligible, but you must have paid all fees, waited at least 180 days, and you cannot have been found not guilty due to insanity. The only types of convictions that can be sealed are ones that were deemed “Deferred Judgment” or the charges were for public intoxication, consumption, or underage possession of alcohol and two years have passed without any further incidents.

Who Can Lookup your Criminal Background?

Anyone with access to a computer and the Internet can search for and find your criminal record in Iowa. This includes government agencies, gun dealers, landlords, neighbors, friends, and family. You can also look up your own criminal history pretty quickly. You can use the state resources or a third-party online service to search for criminal records.

Why Check Someone’s Filed Criminal Charges?

Government agencies use criminal history reports before they issue security clearances, permits, licensing and other certifications. Gun dealers must check everyone’s criminal history before selling him or her a firearm. Property owners sometimes use them before renting to a stranger.

Types of Criminal Records

Criminal records in Iowa will show all arrests, warrants, convictions, charges, sentences, incarcerations and dispositions. All your felonies, misdemeanors, sex offenses and driving infractions will show up in the report. Your criminal record will also show your name, address, date of birth, age, gender, race, and phone number, email, weight, and height.

How Are IA Criminal Records Created?

From the time someone is arrested in Iowa, the paper trail begins. The first officer to arrest them will fill out a report. When they get released on bail, another form will be filled out. When they show up in court, more documents are created, and all this paperwork becomes the person’s criminal record.