Criminal records hold valuable information, but it can be difficult to know how to navigate a search. In North Carolina, many criminal records – arrest records and conviction records – are considered public records; however, some may be restricted due to juvenile involvement or sealed cases. Online databases, like the North Carolina Courts System and the State Bureau of Investigation, offer search tools, but there could be a fee for access and accuracy can vary. It is important to understand terminology when approaching criminal records and that mistakes and inaccuracies can occur. Employers should consider fair hiring practices, as well as Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) guidelines.
