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How do I find out if someone has a criminal record in Ohio?

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    In Ohio, adult convictions generally cannot be “wiped out” or completely erased from your record. In lieu of deletion, Ohio employs a court process known as “sealing the criminal record.” If your file is sealed, you do not have to disclose your conviction, arrest, or charges against you when applying for most jobs. Under Ohio law, once the record is sealed, it is as if the crime never happened.

    Even sealed records will be available to some employers for some jobs. For example, your convictions, even if sealed, may bar you from working with children, the elderly, people with developmental disabilities, or work that is materially related to your crime. You must report sealed records when you enlist in the military. The Ohio Bureau of Criminal Identification and Investigation (BCI) maintains records of all sealed criminal records.

    A case study for a client with multiple convictions

    We had a client with a combination of 11 misdemeanors and felonies in 5 different courts that resulted in multiple convictions. These numerous cases have occurred over the years. She was sentenced to prison and placed on probation in cases. She even violated her parole and was sent back to prison. It was not an easy case, but after hearing from our client, we learned that many of her convictions stemmed from her drug addiction and criminal behavior related to trying to perpetuate her addiction. Our client had sought drug rehabilitation programs, counseling, and professional training to try to change his life. We appreciated everything she did for herself and we vowed to fight for her to give her a second chance at life.

    When we analyzed the cases, we found that the deletion waiting period had expired in four of the cases, but not in the fifth case. After discussing options with our client, instead of waiting for the 5th case to be eligible, we tackled 4 of their cases and filed motions to seal their criminal and misdemeanor files. These cases required detailed monitoring, investigation, preparation and filing of court documents, writing detailed reports, affidavits, motions and obtaining supporting evidence (letters of recommendation from counselors, court officials, friends and community professionals). Knowing that there were five different courts with five different judges who would be looking at our client’s extensive criminal record, we spent time with our client to prepare him for his testimony and anticipate possible prosecutorial objections. Of course, when it came time for the court hearing, our client was nervous, but she felt ready and gave an excellent testimony. We have shown the court that based on the evidence, the new law and our client’s testimony, she is a eligible criminal under Ohio law and that she truly deserves the privilege of having her record sealed. The sealing of all beliefs has opened the doors of possibility.

    Ohio Inmate Records

    The sixth largest prison system in the United States, Ohio operates 30 state prisons. Manages inmate records, which contain personal and official information about individuals incarcerated by the state and held in Ohio jails, jails or correctional institutions.

    Records for each inmate are generally maintained at the inmate’s place of residence and include the following information:

    Federal Criminal Records review

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”) ) provides a national report that includes convictions from all states. This is the most accurate list. You must provide written permission and your fingerprints to obtain a BCI or FBI report.

    You can get a copy of your BCI or FBI report from any Webcheck site. A list of locations, including those in Columbus, can be found on the BCI website at: http://www.ohioattorneygeneral.gov/Services/Business/Webcheck/Webcheck-COmmunity-Listing.aspx

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