Dennis Dwyer is a DUI Attorney located in Bridgeview, Illinois. Dennis has a perfect 10 rating on Avvo, and is ranked top 20 Criminal Defense Lawyers in Chicago by Expertise.
Cook County Police Records
In 1991, the Uniform Conviction Information Act mandated by Illinois, ensured that all criminal history record conviction information collected and maintained by the state, be made available to the public. This promises that people who are interested in securing access to public records can do so via the appropriate channels, with a few circumstances unique to Bridgeview. Sometimes referred to as a Rap sheet, the records of arrests and prosecutions will include data about contacts made with the Illinois criminal justice system.
Bridgeview maintains these rap sheets by the state’s Police Department records service division, where they are cataloged. Additionally, the FBI may also have a rap sheet that represents a person’s criminal history. This information is maintained by the Criminal Justice Information Services.
A lot of information is allocated to these criminal records to ensure a thorough and accurate investigation, and to help support criminal proceedings. There are several reasons why Bridgeview residents may want to secure a copy of a criminal record.
Criminal records can be provided to an attorney to consult a current criminal charge or help with the expunging process. The criminal case file will showcase records of criminal history and will become a tool for an attorney to provide accurate advice. Even though criminal records are meticulously maintained and documented, it is primarily powered by humans and can, therefore, contain errors that need to be edited. Bridgeview criminal records can undermine employment opportunities. In the recent year bipartisan efforts have helped Illinois law to loosen employment restrictions for past criminal offenders. However, it’s important to be familiar with what type of information a criminal record represents.
Who is trying to obtain Police Records?
The Victim. Victims of crimes have the right to receive a copy of police records if they were involved in an incident, with the victim usually being able to get it directly from the department. Copies are presented immediately after they are filed.
The Defendant. Defendants also have the right to obtain a copy of the report since they have a right to know the basis of accusations. Defendants receive a copy of police reports from the district attorney’s office that is prosecuting the case. If lawyers are present, then their lawyers will also obtain a copy for their client’s records.
Third Parties Obtaining a Copy of the Police Report
Sometimes a third identity may need a copy of a report, even if they aren’t directly involved. The Freedom of Information Act allows third parties to obtain a copy of public police reports. Even though distinct precincts may have modified rules when it comes to the frequency of access, the Freedom of Information Act streamlines the process as long as the third-party has the necessary information like the name of the people involved and addresses. Sensitive information is sometimes redacted. To obtain a copy of the police report without personal information being redacted, then a subpoena must be assigned.
Circumstances When Living in or outside of Chicago, Illinois
The process of obtaining a copy of a Cook County criminal record is largely dependent if you live in the Chicago area. If you reside in Chicago, you need to personally visit the City of Chicago building with the following items – a valid license or ID, a $16 check or money order made out to the Department of Revenue, and a writing utensil to fill out paperwork. The building is located at 3510 S. Michigan Ave. At the city of Chicago building complete the Request for Access and Review Form at cashier window three or four.
Pick up a copy of the form and any fingerprints taken about five business days. It’s important to note that you must be able to pick up the form and bring your pink slipped receipt from when you submitted your Request for Access and Review paperwork. Do not wait longer for a month to finally obtain your forms – you will then need to repeat the process if you wait longer than that.
If you live outside of Chicago and aren’t able to physically visit the proper department to request a police record, you can visit your local police department for fingerprinting and mail in the appropriate documentations including fingerprints, a copy of your ID card, money order, and a letter. The Chicago Police Department has more thorough instructions for those who live outside of the city. More information can be found on the department’s website.
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Even though most rules when it comes to obtaining a copy of a report are static, fees can change at any time. For up-to-date information, it’s important to get information from your local police department about the process and the costs involved. Questions about current criminal charges should be run through a knowledgeable attorney that is familiar with Cook County laws, since there are many moving factors with filing government paperwork.
