Legal Question in Criminal Law in California

Submission of finger prints via livescan to the California DOJ, is that a search for only California arrests and criminal history, or is it nationwide search of criminal records? California has the 7-10 year criminal background search from what I've heard, so I am completely lost, please advise, thank you.


Asked on 1/31/13, 7:45 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys

Terry A. Nelson Nelson & Lawless

I don't know where your 'buddies' learn what they think they know, but....

There is ONE criminal records database. It is maintained by the FBI/DOJ, and accessed by all law enforcement agencies for searches. All fingerprints are submitted to that database, no matter what state takes them. Some states may keep duplicates, but they are irrelevant.

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Answered on 2/01/13, 12:12 pm


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