One of the most frequently asked questions is whether criminal cases are in the public domain or are generally known as Public Records.
What are Criminal Records in Texas?
Criminal Records are the Spanish word for criminal history. These Texas criminal records are official documents relating to the criminal activity of individuals within the jurisdiction of the state of Texas. The information contained in these records, also known as rap sheets, typically includes details of misdemeanors and felonies, as well as records of arrests, indictments, and unexpunged criminal convictions. All reports are compiled from local, county, and state jurisdictions, trial courts, appellate courts, as well as county and state correctional facilities. Criminal History Records in Texas
Yes. The Texas Freedom of Information Act allows individuals to access criminal records upon request from approved records custodians. Criminal record information is considered public under the state's open records laws, and individuals may obtain the document without formal authorization.
Public criminal records in the state of Texas generally show the following:
- The subject's full name and aliases
- A mugshot of the subject and details of unique physical descriptors
- The subject's date of birth, nationality/ethnicity, and sex
- A complete set of fingerprints
- Details of the crimes and charges
- Information on arrests, dispositions and sentences
Criminal records, considered public in the United States, are available through some third-party websites. Searching on third-party websites is often easier, as the information is not limited to the records' geographic availability. Information found on third-party websites can serve as a starting point for individuals searching for a specific record or multiple records. Typically, requesters must provide the following information to access these records:
The name of the subject of the record, unless the subject is a minor.
The last known location of the subject of the record, including cities, counties, and states.
Third-party websites offer these search services, but they are not sponsored by the government. Record availability may vary.
Obtaining a criminal record varies by county.
Each county has its own policies regarding whether criminal cases are hidden or whether anyone can find them with a simple search.
If someone has been accused of certain crimes, they obviously want to hide them in order to get different jobs.