Alabama Arrest Records

Alabama Public Records /Alabama Arrest Records

Are Arrest Records Public in Alabama?

Yes, arrest records in Alabama are generally considered public, but the level of access depends on the type of record and the agency maintaining it. Under the Alabama Open Records Act (Ala. Code § 36-12-40), citizens have the right to inspect and copy public records, which includes certain law enforcement records. This means that basic arrest information—such as the individual’s name, charges, arrest date, and the arresting agency—is typically available. Many county sheriff’s offices and detention centers publish daily arrest logs or inmate rosters online to satisfy public access requirements.

That said, not all arrest records are open without restriction. Records connected to juveniles, sealed or expunged cases, or ongoing criminal investigations are exempt from public disclosure. Additionally, while basic arrest details are accessible, comprehensive criminal history reports are maintained by the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA), Criminal Records and Identification Unit. These detailed records are only available through official background checks, often requiring fingerprints, fees, and in some cases, statutory authorization. This system strikes a balance between public transparency and protecting privacy and law enforcement integrity.

What Law Governs Access to Arrest Records in Alabama?

Access to arrest records in Alabama is primarily governed by the Alabama Open Records Act, also known as the Public Records Law, codified in Code of Alabama § 36-12-40. This law establishes the fundamental right of citizens to inspect and copy public records, including arrest records, with certain exceptions.

The law states: "Every citizen has a right to inspect and take a copy of any public writing of this state, except as otherwise expressly provided by statute."

Additional laws and regulations that affect access to arrest records in Alabama include:

Alabama Criminal Justice Information Center Act (Code of Alabama § 41-9-590 through § 41-9-649), which established the Alabama Criminal Justice Information Center (ACJIC) and governs the collection, storage, and dissemination of criminal history information.
Alabama Administrative Code 265-X-2, which provides specific regulations regarding criminal history information.
Federal Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), which regulates how arrest records can be used for employment purposes.
Alabama Expungement Law (Code of Alabama § 15-27-1 through § 15-27-16), which provides for the expungement of certain arrest records under specific circumstances.

These laws collectively establish a framework that balances the public's right to information with individuals' privacy rights and the need for accurate criminal justice records.

What Information Is Included in a Alabama Arrest Record?

An Alabama arrest record typically contains comprehensive information about an individual's encounter with law enforcement. The standard information included in these records is as follows:

Personal Identifying Information:
- Full legal name
- Date of birth
- Gender
- Race
- Physical description (height, weight, eye color, hair color)
- Fingerprints
- Photograph (mugshot)
- Address at time of arrest
Arrest Details:
- Date and time of arrest
- Location of arrest
- Arresting agency
- Name and badge number of arresting officer(s)
- Charges filed (including statute numbers)
- Booking information
- Case or docket number
Procedural Information:
- Miranda rights acknowledgment
- Bail or bond amount (if applicable)
- Court appearance dates
- Detention facility information
Case Disposition:
- Whether charges were filed, dismissed, or reduced
- Court proceedings and outcomes
- Sentencing information (if convicted)
- Probation or parole details (if applicable)

It's important to note that the level of detail may vary depending on the specific law enforcement agency that created the record and the circumstances of the arrest. Additionally, some information may be redacted or restricted from public view based on privacy laws, ongoing investigations, or court orders.

How To Obtain Arrest Records in Alabama in 2025

Obtaining arrest records in Alabama can be accomplished through several methods, depending on your specific needs and the type of information you're seeking. Here are the primary ways to access arrest records in Alabama in 2025:

In-Person Requests:

You can request arrest records directly from the law enforcement agency that made the arrest. This typically involves:

Visiting the agency's records division during business hours
Completing a records request form
Providing identification
Paying any applicable fees
Specifying the records you're seeking (providing as much detail as possible)

Alabama Criminal Justice Information Center (ACJIC)

ACJIC
201 South Union Street, Suite 300
Montgomery, AL 36130
(334) 517-2400
Alabama Criminal Justice Information Center

The ACJIC is the central repository for criminal history information in Alabama. They provide criminal background checks that include arrest records. To obtain records:

Submit a properly completed application form
Provide fingerprints (for complete criminal history checks)
Pay the required fee
Include a self-addressed stamped envelope for return mail

County Sheriff's Offices:

Each county sheriff's office maintains records of arrests made within their jurisdiction. Contact the specific county sheriff's office where the arrest occurred.

Municipal Police Departments:

For arrests made by city police, contact the records division of the specific municipal police department.

Mail Requests:

Most agencies accept mail requests for arrest records. Your request should include:

A formal written request specifying the information needed
A copy of your identification
Payment for applicable fees
A self-addressed stamped envelope

Attorney Requests:

Legal representatives can request arrest records on behalf of their clients by providing:

Proper identification
Proof of representation
Completed request forms
Payment of applicable fees

Processing times vary by agency and request volume, typically ranging from a few days to several weeks. For the most current information, it's advisable to contact the specific agency before submitting your request.

How to Find Arrest Records Online in Alabama

Finding arrest records online in Alabama has become increasingly accessible through various digital platforms. Here are the primary online resources for accessing arrest information in the state:

Alabama Judicial System Online Services: The Alabama Judicial System provides access to court records through their Alacourt system. While this requires a subscription for full access, it contains valuable information about court cases related to arrests.

Alabama Department of Corrections Inmate Search: The Alabama Department of Corrections maintains an online inmate search tool that provides information about individuals currently incarcerated or under supervision, including their arrest charges.

County Sheriff's Office Websites: Many county sheriff's offices in Alabama maintain online inmate rosters or arrest logs. For example:

Municipal Police Department Websites: Larger city police departments often provide online access to recent arrest information:

Who Can Access Arrest Records in Alabama?

In Alabama, access to arrest records varies depending on who is requesting the information and for what purpose. Here's a breakdown of who can access these records:

General Public:

Any Alabama citizen can request basic arrest record information under the Alabama Open Records Act
Access is typically limited to non-confidential information
Requestors generally don't need to state a reason for their request
Some information may be redacted to protect privacy or ongoing investigations

The Arrested Individual:

Has the right to access their own arrest records
May need to provide identification to verify identity
Can authorize others to access their records through proper consent forms

Legal Representatives:

Attorneys representing clients can access their clients' arrest records
Must provide proof of representation
May have access to more detailed information than the general public

Criminal Justice Agencies:

Law enforcement agencies
Courts and prosecutors
Corrections departments
Probation and parole offices
Have complete access to arrest records for official purposes

Government Agencies:

May access records for specific statutory purposes
Include licensing boards, regulatory agencies, and certain social service agencies
Access level depends on specific statutory authority

Employers and Licensing Bodies:

May access records for background checks with proper authorization
Subject to restrictions under the Fair Credit Reporting Act
Some professions (education, healthcare, financial services) have expanded access rights
Cannot use arrest records that didn't lead to convictions for employment decisions in many cases

Researchers and Media:

May access non-confidential arrest records
Typically subject to the same restrictions as the general public
May request aggregate data for statistical purposes

While arrest records are generally public, access can be restricted based on factors such as the age of the arrestee, the nature of the charges, whether the case is still pending, and whether the records have been sealed or expunged.

Are There Fees for Obtaining Arrest Records in Alabama?

Yes, there are fees associated with obtaining arrest records in Alabama. These fees vary depending on the agency providing the records and the type of request being made. Here's a comprehensive overview of the fee structure:

Alabama Criminal Justice Information Center (ACJIC):

Criminal history record: $25.00 per name search
Fingerprint-based background check: $38.25
Name-based background check: $25.00

County Sheriff's Offices: Fees vary by county, but typically range from:

$5.00 to $25.00 for a basic arrest record
Additional fees may apply for certified copies
Some counties charge per page for printed records (usually $1.00-$2.00 per page)

Municipal Police Departments:

Basic arrest record: $5.00-$20.00 (varies by municipality)
Incident/accident reports: $5.00-$15.00
Certified copies: Additional $2.00-$5.00

Alabama Department of Corrections:

Inmate records: $25.00 per search
Certified copies: Additional $5.00

Alabama Court System:

Court records related to arrests: $5.00-$25.00 (varies by court)
Certified court documents: Additional $5.00-$10.00
Alacourt.com subscription (for online access): Various subscription levels starting at approximately $84.00 per month

Payment Methods: Most agencies accept:

Cash (in-person requests only)
Money orders
Certified checks
Credit/debit cards (at some locations and for online requests)
Personal checks (policies vary by agency)

Fee Waivers:

Some agencies may waive fees for:
- Indigent individuals (proof of financial hardship required)
- Government agencies requesting records for official purposes
- Certain non-profit organizations with specific statutory exemptions

It's advisable to contact the specific agency from which you're requesting records to confirm current fees, as these amounts may change over time. Additionally, expedited processing may be available for an additional fee at some agencies.

How Long Are Arrest Records Kept in Alabama

Arrest records in Alabama are typically maintained for extensive periods, following specific retention schedules established by state law and agency policies. The duration for which these records are kept depends on several factors, including the nature of the offense, case disposition, and the maintaining agency.

Standard Retention Periods:

Felony Arrest Records: Generally kept permanently in Alabama's criminal history repository.
Misdemeanor Arrest Records: Typically maintained for at least 5-7 years, though many agencies keep them longer.
Juvenile Arrest Records: Usually sealed when the individual turns 18, unless the case was transferred to adult court.
Arrests Not Resulting in Charges: May be retained for 5 years, though policies vary by agency.
Arrests Resulting in Acquittal or Dismissal: Typically maintained unless expunged through court order.

Agency-Specific Retention Policies:

Alabama Criminal Justice Information Center (ACJIC): Maintains criminal history information indefinitely unless expungement is ordered.
County Sheriff's Offices: Generally follow state guidelines but may have county-specific retention schedules.
Municipal Police Departments: Typically maintain records according to municipal records retention schedules, which often require permanent retention of arrest records.
Alabama Department of Corrections: Maintains records of incarcerated individuals permanently.
Alabama Court System: Court records related to arrests are typically maintained permanently, with some exceptions for expunged cases.

When physical records might be destroyed according to retention schedules, digital records and database entries may be maintained for longer periods. Additionally, information that has been published in newspapers, court dockets, or other public forums may remain accessible indefinitely, even if the official records are later expunged or sealed.

The Alabama Department of Archives and History provides guidance on records retention for state agencies, including law enforcement, though specific policies may vary by jurisdiction and agency.

What Information Is Redacted or Restricted in Alabama Arrest Records?

When accessing arrest records in Alabama, certain information is typically redacted or restricted from public view to protect privacy rights, ongoing investigations, and vulnerable individuals. Here's a comprehensive overview of what information is commonly redacted or restricted:

Personal Identifying Information:

Social Security numbers
Driver's license numbers
Financial account information
Personal telephone numbers
Home addresses (in some cases)
Email addresses
Medical information
Biometric data (other than standard booking photos)

Victim Information:

Names and identifying information of victims of sex crimes
Information about minor victims
Victim contact information
Victim medical information
Information that could endanger a victim's safety

Juvenile Information:

Arrest records for individuals under 18 years of age
School records
Juvenile court proceedings
Juvenile probation information

Sensitive Case Information:

Information related to ongoing investigations
Grand jury proceedings
Information that could compromise witness safety
Confidential informant information
Details that could prejudice a fair trial
Information sealed by court order

Law Enforcement Sensitive Information:

Undercover officer identities
Tactical information
Investigative techniques
Information that could compromise officer safety

Other Protected Information:

Mental health evaluations
Substance abuse treatment information
Information protected by HIPAA
Information protected by federal law (such as FERPA for educational records)
Information related to national security

The specific information redacted may vary depending on the agency providing the records, the nature of the case, and applicable state and federal laws. Law enforcement agencies and courts make redaction determinations based on statutory requirements, case law, and agency policies.

When requesting arrest records, you may receive documents with certain information blacked out or removed. In some cases, you may need to demonstrate a legitimate purpose or obtain a court order to access more complete records, particularly for sensitive cases or those involving protected categories of information.

How To Seal or Destroy Arrest Records in Alabama

In Alabama, individuals may have options to seal or expunge certain arrest records under specific circumstances. The process is governed primarily by the Alabama Expungement Law (Code of Alabama § 15-27-1 through § 15-27-16). Here's a comprehensive guide to the process:

Eligibility for Expungement:

Under Alabama law, expungement may be available for:

Non-conviction records, including:
- Arrests that did not result in charges
- Charges that were dismissed
- Cases where the person was found not guilty
- Cases where grand jury issued a "no bill" (declined to indict)
Certain misdemeanor convictions, including:
- Non-violent misdemeanors
- After a waiting period (typically 3 years after completion of sentence)
- If there are no subsequent convictions during the waiting period
Certain non-violent felony convictions, under limited circumstances:
- After a waiting period (typically 5 years after completion of sentence)
- If there are no subsequent convictions during the waiting period
- Limited to specific eligible offenses

Ineligible Records:

Expungement is generally not available for:

Violent felonies
Sex offenses
Serious traffic violations (including DUI)
Crimes involving serious physical injury
Crimes involving death
Crimes against children

Expungement Process:

File a Petition: Submit an expungement petition in the circuit court where the arrest or conviction occurred.
Required Documentation:
- Certified copy of arrest record
- Court disposition documents
- Criminal history background check
- Filing fee (currently $300, though fee waivers may be available for indigent applicants)
- Supporting documentation showing rehabilitation (for conviction expungements)
Notification: The district attorney's office will be notified of your petition and has 45 days to object.
Hearing: If the district attorney objects, the court will schedule a hearing.
Court Decision: The judge will decide whether to grant the expungement based on statutory criteria and any evidence presented.
Order Distribution: If granted, the court will issue an order to all relevant agencies to seal or destroy records.

Effect of Expungement:

When an expungement is granted:

Records are sealed from public view
The person may legally deny the arrest or conviction occurred (with certain exceptions)
Records remain available to law enforcement and courts for specific purposes
Records may still be considered for certain licensing or employment in sensitive positions

Legal Assistance:

Due to the complexity of the expungement process, it's highly recommended to seek assistance from:

An attorney with experience in expungement cases
Legal aid organizations such as Legal Services Alabama
The Alabama State Bar Lawyer Referral Service

The expungement process typically takes 3-6 months from filing to completion, depending on court schedules and whether there are any objections.

What Are the Limitations on the Use of Arrest Records in Alabama?

In Alabama, there are significant legal limitations on how arrest records can be used, particularly in employment, housing, and other contexts. These limitations are designed to protect individuals from unfair discrimination while balancing public safety concerns. Here are the key restrictions:

Employment Limitations:

Under the Federal Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), employers must:
- Obtain written consent before conducting background checks
- Provide pre-adverse action notices if considering denying employment based on arrest records
- Allow applicants to dispute inaccurate information
Alabama follows the EEOC guidance that suggests employers should not make employment decisions based solely on arrest records without convictions, as this may have a disparate impact on protected groups
Public employers in Alabama are generally prohibited from asking about arrests that did not lead to convictions on initial job applications (though this may be asked later in the hiring process)

Housing Limitations:

Landlords and property managers must comply with the Fair Housing Act
Blanket policies rejecting applicants with any arrest record may constitute discrimination
Housing providers should consider the nature, severity, and recency of the criminal conduct

Licensing Limitations:

Professional licensing boards in Alabama can consider criminal history but must typically:
- Establish a direct relationship between the arrest/conviction and the license sought
- Consider evidence of rehabilitation
- Provide an opportunity to present mitigating evidence

Educational Limitations:

Higher education institutions in Alabama generally cannot make admissions decisions based solely on arrest records without convictions
Financial aid eligibility may be affected by certain drug-related convictions, but not merely arrests

Commercial Use Limitations:

Companies selling arrest record information must comply with the FCRA
Information providers must maintain procedures to ensure maximum possible accuracy
Arrest records older than seven years generally cannot be included in consumer reports for employment purposes (for positions paying less than $75,000 annually)

Expunged Record Limitations:

Once a record is expunged under Alabama law, it is illegal for most entities to use that information
Individuals with expunged records may legally deny the arrest occurred in most contexts

Penalties for Misuse:

Violations of these limitations may result in:
- Civil liability under state and federal law
- Regulatory penalties
- Administrative sanctions for licensed professionals
- Potential discrimination claims

Certain sensitive positions (law enforcement, childcare, healthcare, financial services) may have broader access to arrest record information due to public safety concerns. Additionally, these limitations generally do not apply to the use of records by criminal justice agencies for law enforcement purposes.

Lookup Arrest Records in Alabama

State Repository for Criminal History Records

Alabama Criminal Justice Information Center (ACJIC)
201 South Union Street, Suite 300
Montgomery, AL 36130
(334) 517-2400
Alabama Criminal Justice Information Center

State Department of Public Safety

Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA)
301 South Ripley Street
Montgomery, AL 36104
(334) 517-2800
Alabama Law Enforcement Agency

State Department of Corrections

Alabama Department of Corrections
301 South Ripley Street
Montgomery, AL 36130
(334) 353-3883
Alabama Department of Corrections

State Court System

Administrative Office of Courts
300 Dexter Avenue
Montgomery, AL 36104
(334) 954-5000
Alabama Judicial System

Attorney General's Office

Alabama Attorney General's Office
501 Washington Avenue
Montgomery, AL 36104
(334) 242-7300
Alabama Attorney General

County Sheriff's Offices (Selected major counties)

Jefferson County Sheriff's Office
2200 Reverend Abraham Woods Jr. Boulevard
Birmingham, AL 35203
(205) 325-5700
Jefferson County Sheriff's Office

Mobile County Sheriff's Office
510 South Royal Street
Mobile, AL 36603
(251) 574-8040
Mobile County Sheriff's Office

Madison County Sheriff's Office
815 Wheeler Avenue
Huntsville, AL 35801
(256) 722-7181
Madison County Sheriff's Office

Municipal Police Departments (Selected major cities)

Birmingham Police Department
1710 1st Avenue North
Birmingham, AL 35203
(205) 254-1700
Birmingham Police Department

Montgomery Police Department
320 North Ripley Street
Montgomery, AL 36104
(334) 625-2810
Montgomery Police Department

Huntsville Police Department
815 Wheeler Avenue
Huntsville, AL 35801
(256) 722-7100
Huntsville Police Department

State Archives

Alabama Department of Archives and History
624 Washington Avenue
Montgomery, AL 36130
(334) 242-4435
Alabama Department of Archives and History

Federal Agencies Operating in Alabama

FBI Birmingham Field Office
1000 18th Street North
Birmingham, AL 35203
(205) 326-6166
FBI Birmingham

U.S. Marshals Service - Northern District of Alabama
1729 North 5th Avenue
Birmingham, AL 35203
(205) 731-1411
U.S. Marshals Service