Tennessee is committed to the Freedom of Information Act and freely allows the public, generous access to someone’s criminal history. They offer two choices; you can get a record via their online system or through the mail. You can search by name, and it will cost you $29 per file. If you also want to search the federal database (FBI) they can do that as well for another $50. Qualified applicants, like government agencies and frequent users, get a substantial discount when they sign up for an account.
Tennessee’s Bureau of Investigation makes it easy to search for and obtain someone’s federal criminal records through their online system. Each file, however, costs $50. You can also use the Public Access to Court Electronic Records (PACER) system to peruse them as well. If you need local court records for criminal proceedings, you can visit the local courthouse or check out their websites. Many have portals where you can search and download documents instantly. You can also use third-party online search portal to find that information online.
Unfortunately, unless you qualify to have your record expunged, your felonies and misdemeanors will be on your record forever. Only charges that were dropped, ruled not-guilty, dismissed, or if you were arrested but never charged, or your case resulted in nolleprosequi can you apply to have your records expunged. Some crimes will stay on your record regardless of your situation.
Anyone with access to a computer and the internet can lookup your criminal records very easily in Tennessee. The state offers their own portal for name-search lookups and also forms so you can request them via mail. You can even get a copy of your own record for only $29. Government agencies will also have access.
Property owners and landlords use them quite often before renting property. They like to review their tenant's criminal history before allowing them to sign a lease. Personal reasons might be online dating, finding friends or business investigation. Sometimes when you apply for a license or permit, they will check your criminal record first.
The types of information you will find on Tennessee criminal records are basic demographic stuff like name, address, phone and email. You will also see height, weight, sex, race, and age. You might see fingerprints and mug shots too. Also included will be their charges, arrests, convictions, dismissals, court appearances, incarcerations, parole and probation details.
Tennessee criminal records are created every time a law enforcement agent arrests someone, investigates a crime, detains or questions someone, locks them up in jail, moves them to a new facility or escorts them to court. These documents all made up a person’s criminal record.
