Illinois Free Public Criminal Records

It was in 1991 when the UCIA became a law in Illinois. The UCIA or Uniform Conviction Information Act allows the Illinois criminal records with conviction to be made into public property. This means that the records that were collected by the police department of Illinois are available for the public's inspection. Criminal records checks or background checks are important as these can show the history of a person's background and whether he or she has been arrested and for what case(s). The Illinois State Police or ISP currently has two forms that one can use to obtain the records - A Fingerprint Conviction Form and a Non-Fingerprint Form. Requests made through the ISP should be placed using these forms as each of the form has a different processing control number.

For those who will be requesting using the non-fingerprint conviction form, they should include all the pertinent details of the person whose records they are requesting. This is important, as the ISP will base their searches from the identification/details provided. The cost for the request is $16 for each name and $30 for checks not drawn in US banks. As most criminals would use different names or aliases, there might be times when there are no results shown. For a more reliable search, one can instead opt for a fingerprint request. The request will be conducted using the ISP fingerprint criminal database and cost is $20 and $50 for checks not drawn in the US. The ISP accepts money order, checks and credit card payment.

The ISP allows multiple requests; however, maiden names are treated separately. A single check is allowed to cover the cost of the multiple requests. It is important to double check the details of the request form before submitting as incomplete forms will not be processed and the fees will be forfeited.

In case those who request background checks on themselves find some inconsistencies with their records, they might request to view and challenge their records with the local enforcement agency. The agency will then process a fingerprint-based inquiry and would send the details to the person within 60 days. The person can view their file in the agency themselves and make corrections if necessary. There are no fees being charged by the ISP; however, the law enforcement agency might charge the person to cover the cost of the fingerprint.

For those who want to obtain their criminal record from the FBI, they can do so by sending a request copy directly to the FBI. The cover should include an introduction of the person, contact info, a copy of their fingerprints as well as payment of $18. Payments can be made through credit card, money order and check. Processing can take between one to two months upon receipt.

Another easier way to get a background check on oneself or another person is by visiting the local police department or the county clerk office. The police department contains arrest records for public use whereas case records with conviction are available from the Court clerk. For those who want a faster and convenient way to obtain records, they can research through public search portals available online. These sites provide access to vital records as well as public records for free or for a minimal fee.

We have information and insight on various sources of Illinois Criminal Records and other paid and Free Criminal Record Check.. This article, Illinois Free Public Criminal Records is released under a creative commons attribution license.