Will a Police Report Show Up on a Background Check?
Have you ever wondered if that time you got pulled over for speeding or had a minor altercation with a neighbor could come back to haunt you? The answer is: it depends. Police reports are not always public record, and even when they are, they may not show up on a background check. However, there are certain circumstances in which a police report could be included in a background check, so it’s important to be aware of the potential consequences.
What is a Police Report?
A police report is a written record of an incident that has been investigated by law enforcement. It typically includes information about the incident, the people involved, and any witnesses. Depending on the nature of the incident and its severity, it also may include photographs, sketches, or other evidence.
When Will a Police Report Show Up on a Background Check?
There are a few circumstances in which a police report may show up on a background check. These include:
- If the incident was a felony.
- If the incident involved violence or weapons.
- If you are applying for a job or license that requires a background check.
In most cases, a felony conviction will appear on a background check. However, even if you were not convicted of a felony, the arrest and police report may still show up on your record.
Even if the incident did not result in a felony conviction, it may still be included in a background check if it involved violence or weapons. This is because employers and landlords are often interested in knowing about any potential safety risks.
Many employers and licensing boards require applicants to undergo a background check. This is typically done to ensure that the applicant has a clean criminal record and is not a risk to the public.
When Will a Police Report Not Show Up on a Background Check?
There are also a number of circumstances in which a police report will not show up on a background check. These include:
- If the incident was a minor misdemeanor.
- If the incident was expunged from your record.
- If the background check is not thorough.
In most cases, minor misdemeanors will not show up on a background check. This is especially true if the misdemeanor was not related to violence or weapons.
In some cases, you may be able to have a police report expunged from your record. This is a legal process that can be complex and time-consuming, but it can be worth it if you want to remove a negative item from your record.
Not all background checks are created equal. Some background checks only look for felony convictions, while others may also include misdemeanor convictions and arrests. If you are concerned about a particular incident showing up on a background check, you should ask the employer or landlord what type of background check they will be conducting.
Tips and Expert Advice
Here are a few tips for managing police reports on your record:
- Be honest about any arrests or convictions on your job applications.
- Consider getting a copy of your police report.
- Talk to an attorney if you have any questions about your criminal record.
Lying about your criminal history can lead to serious consequences, such as being fired or denied a job. It’s always better to be upfront about any negative items on your record and explain how you have learned from your mistakes.
This can be helpful if you are applying for a job or license that requires a background check. Having a copy of your police report will allow you to see what information is included and to correct any errors.
An attorney can help you understand your rights and options and can advise you on the best way to manage your record.
FAQ
Q: How long do police reports stay on your record?
A: The length of time that a police report stays on your record depends on the nature of the incident and the jurisdiction in which it occurred. In most cases, minor misdemeanors will be removed from your record after a few years. However, felonies and other serious crimes may stay on your record indefinitely.
Q: Can I get a police report expunged from my record?
A: In some cases, you may be able to have a police report expunged from your record. This is a legal process that can be complex and time-consuming, but it can be worth it if you want to remove a negative item from your record.
Q: What should I do if I find an error on my police report?
A: If you find an error on your police report, you should contact the law enforcement agency that created the report. You can usually do this by calling the non-emergency number for the police department or sheriff’s office.
Conclusion
Police reports can be a valuable tool for law enforcement, but they can also have a negative impact on your life. If you have been arrested or charged with a crime, it is important to understand how police reports work and how they may affect your future. If you have any questions about your criminal record, you should contact an attorney for advice.
Are you interested in learning more about police reports and background checks?
