To find out if there are pending charges against you for free, the most effective method is to check your local county court's website.
Here's how to navigate this process and understand what information is publicly available:
Checking for Filed Criminal Cases
Once criminal charges have been formally brought against someone and a case has been filed, this information typically becomes public record.
Steps to Search Online
- Identify the Correct County: You'll need to know the specific county where you believe charges might be pending. This is usually the county where the alleged incident occurred.
- Visit the County Court Website: Go to the official website for that county's court system (often the Superior Court, Circuit Court, or District Court, depending on your state's structure).
- Locate the Case Search Feature: Look for sections such as "Court Records," "Case Search," "Public Records," or "Online Dockets."
- Enter Your Name: Utilize the search function by entering your full name. Some systems may also allow searching by case number if you have one, but for a general check, your name is sufficient.
- Review Search Results: The system will display any cases filed under your name. Look for criminal cases, which may be identified by case type (e.g., "Criminal," "Felony," "Misdemeanor").
What You Might Find
If a criminal case has been filed against you, the search results will typically show:
- The case number
- The date the case was filed
- The type of charges
- Upcoming court dates
- The court where the case is being heard
Understanding Pending vs. Filed Charges
It's crucial to understand the distinction between an ongoing police investigation and a formal criminal case that has been filed:
| Stage of Process | Public Record? | How to Check (for free) |
|---|---|---|
| Police Investigation | No | Information is not publicly available until charges are officially brought and a case is filed. |
| Criminal Case Filed | Yes | Check your county court's website for a public case search using your name. |
Police investigations remain confidential until charges are officially filed with the court. This means that if law enforcement is still investigating a matter and has not yet formally charged you, this information will not appear in public court records. You will only be able to find details about a criminal matter once it transitions from an investigation into a formally filed case with the court.
