In today’s world, background checks have become increasingly commonplace. Whether it is for jobs, loans, housing applications or various other reasons, understanding your criminal record is essential. Having a felony on your record is a serious matter; it can have a long-lasting impact on numerous aspects of your life.

So, how do you find out if you have a felony on your record? Here are three ways that can help you uncover the truth:

1. Request your Criminal Record

One of the most straightforward methods to find out if you have a felony on your record is by requesting a copy of your own criminal, or conviction history. To do this, contact the local or state agency responsible for maintaining criminal records. In most cases, this will be the Department of Justice, the State Bureau of Investigation or the local Police Department.

You’ll need to provide personal information such as your full name, date of birth, and Social Security number. Some agencies require fingerprint submissions with the form for positive identification. Keep in mind that there may be fees associated with requesting this information.

2. Use an Online Public Records Search Service

Another way to find out if you have a felony is by using an online public records search service, which may provide instant access to court records and other background information about you from various sources.

Some popular public records search services include Spokeo, BeenVerified, Intelius and PeopleFINDERS. Please note that some websites may charge fees for their services and may not provide accurate or complete information. So make sure to verify the quality and authenticity of the service before using them.

3. Speak with an Attorney

Lastly, if unsure about whether you have a felony on your record or not, consider consulting with an attorney who specializes in criminal law. An attorney in this field would be familiar with expungement processes and can help you discover any past felonies.

Lawyers have access to databases and resources that may not be available to the general public and can assist you in determining whether a felony does exist on your record. While obtaining legal counsel may be more expensive, it ensures the accuracy and validity of the information.

In conclusion, discovering if you have a felony on your record is crucial for various aspects of your life. Knowing what’s on your criminal background will help inform crucial decisions on future prospects. Utilizing any of these three methods, you’ll be in a better position to gain insight into your criminal history and take any necessary steps towards rehabilitation or clearing your record.