Home and Family Author: Cathy Taylor

When you want a clear picture of the person you have been talking to online, how do you now do a criminal records search? It's easy, just read on!

Maybe after days or weeks of corresponding, you have decided that it is time to finally meet this new person. But at this point, how many of you are actually thinking about your own personal safety? You should be. Criminals, predators and frauds are pervasive on the internet; just waiting for unsuspecting targets. The good news is, you don't have to be a victim. The internet also makes it easy to do a quick and totally affordable criminal records search.

Most databases are very difficult to use and these online providers expect you to understand technical search logic including queries and fields, etc. But don't worry; I know how to make this so easy for you that your folks could run one with their eyes closed.

Here's what you'll need for a basic search: the person's first name, middle initial, last name and date of birth. That should be fairly easy information to get. On the other hand, the more information you are able to obtain including: previous addresses, akas, driver's license number, social security number etc., the easier you'll make it on yourself to be able to identify the right person should you find some records.

It's important to know that there are a numerous criminal record databases available on the internet now. The one I recommend is Sweetheart Checks, but what you must know is the coverage area that each database claims. This information should be readily available on their website. Check it closely to make sure it covers the states and counties you will be searching.

What are Criminal Records?

Too many people mistakenly think that criminal records are kept for every citizen in one database for the entire US. Let's be real clear - there is no ONE database in the US that covers all criminal records.

But when it comes to the public records that are available to you online, you want to get a database that has both felony and misdemeanor records as well as a national sex offender search, if possible. If the database is any good at all, it will be updated either daily or monthly - depending on the availability of downloads from each individual courthouse.

It should also be easy to search the database and the information should be presented in a way that you can easily read it. Basic information available on these types of criminal records should include: first name, middle initial (optional), last name, date of birth, case number (important if you want to get a copy of the case at the courthouse), offense date, filing date, nature of the charge, and hopefully the disposition of the case including conviction date.

What about Government Websites?

Official, government-operated websites provide individual records regarding court appearances such as the Sheriff's office. This is a free method, but tends to be unreliable and time-consuming. Most people get lost trying to find their way around these websites before they actually get any useful information out of them. Having said that, if you want to try this method, search for your state + court records; or your state + sheriff's department and see what you can find.

When you're ready to do a criminal records search easy and cheap, go to Sweetheart Checks.

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