Are criminal misdemeanor files open to the public?

Answer by  patti (29325)

The public has access to the records regarding closed cases provided that the records are not sealed. There are a lot of factors to be considered with regarding to how the info can be obtained. Your ex would need at least some information even to do an FOIA request, but it is possible.

Answer by  patti (29325)

Once a case is closed, the record becomes public unless a judge, for some reason, seals it. Criminal files are often accessed by ex-spouses relative to child custody issues or to make a point regarding character.

Answer by  fippin (49)

As long as the file is not sealed, any closed case is available to the public under the Freedom of Information Act. Whether felony or misdemeanor, all files are public records. Filing a Freedom of Information form to any agency should require them to open their records to any citizen of the United States.

Answer by  BilWitters (436)

Yes, criminal misdemeanor files are open to the public. Legislators believe that the public has an inherent interest in knowing what people are charged with what crimes. If this is an issue for someone, they can petition the court to have the charges sealed or file for an expungement.

Answer by  tamarawilhite (17883)

The conviction is an open record, available upon any background check or public record search. The actual testimony of the trial and evidence may be restricted.

Answer by  John (9008)

All criminal records, except those for juvenile crimes, are open to the public and anyone can find and see them. In some states, if you are acquitted, a judge can order the files sealed or destroyed.

Answer by  askandyoushallreceive (658)

They are. But for a price. Online searches for things like this cost a fee to be retrieved. Chances are that your ex will not want to fork out the cash to see this record.

Answer by  BilWitters (436)

Yes, all criminal misdemeanor files are of public record. The reasoning behind this is that the public has an inherent interest in knowing who commits certain crimes so that they can judge a person's credibility, etc. One can get these records closed or sealed by requesting the court to expunge the records.

Answer by  flamiss22 (5081)

All criminal files are public records so therefore any citizen or interested parties can access the file. If it not open then a person can file a Freedom Of Information Act to get access to it. So if your ex wants the information no one can deny him.