PUBLIC RECORDS SEARCH
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Explore Public Records Resources
Learn how different types of public records work, where the information comes from, and what to consider when reviewing a possible match.
Public Records
Start with an overview of common public record sources, access limitations, and ways to verify information.
Explore Public Records →People Search
Learn how names, locations, age, address history, and other details can help distinguish possible matches.
Explore People Search →Court Records
Understand court dockets, filings, case information, federal and state court systems, and official court resources.
Explore Court Records →Criminal & Arrest Records
Learn how criminal and arrest information can differ, why a charge is not a conviction, and why case outcomes matter.
Criminal Records | Arrest RecordsVital Records
Find guidance on birth, death, marriage, and divorce records, including where records are maintained and how access varies.
Vital Records | Marriage & DivorceMore Record Guides
Explore property records and background check information, or learn how public records are created and maintained.
Property RecordsBackground Checks
How Public Records Work
Important Reasons To Check Public Records
Public record checks can be used for many practical purposes. You can see if anyone you know has been arrested, and locate sexual predators in your vicinity to protect yourself and your family. You can check people's address and phone number history as well as check people's social media accounts and hidden dating profiles. You can also check marriage, divorce, and death records. There are countless types of records that you can look up about yourself, neighbors, romantic partners, friends, family members, former classmates, and celebrities. The list is endless!
How To: Search Public Records Online
The first step to doing an effective Public Records Searcher online is identifying a reputable site that has information that you can trust. Truthfinder has a very strong reputation in the industry and is known for having one of the largest, most accurate databases' of public information.
The second step is to enter the first name, last name of the person that you are searching. If you have the city and state that the person lives in then that is even better, and will ensure that you pull up the correct person. However, if you do not have address information, then do not fret. It is still very possible to conduct a thorough background check.
Next, you want to ensure that you pulled up the correct persons report. Background check sites often verify that it is the correct report by asking you a question or two about the person that you are searching. For example, did this person ever live in Rhode Island? etc. The more information that you have on the person already, the more likely the search will be accurate.
Next, you want to choose what information you'd like to know about the person, whether it be arrest records, address records, previous phone numbers, social media accounts, etc. There will most likely be an abundance of information on whomever you are searching. It is important to remember that most people do not want their personal information exposed to the public. So we do request that you are mindful of the person you are searching and treat their personal information as if it was your own.