criminal-records-dallas-county are official documents that show a person’s history with the legal system in Dallas County, Texas. These records include felony and misdemeanor charges, court outcomes, arrest dates, sentencing details, and case dispositions. Anyone can search for these records online or in person at county offices. The information is public and free to access, but users must follow specific rules to protect privacy and accuracy. Whether you’re checking your own record, verifying someone else’s background, or researching a legal case, Dallas County provides multiple ways to get reliable data quickly and securely.
How to Search for Criminal Records in Dallas County
Dallas County offers two main ways to search for criminal records: online through official portals or in person at government offices. The online system lets you search by name, case number, birthdate, or offense type. Results appear instantly and include key details like charge descriptions, filing dates, court names, and final judgments. For certified copies or older cases not available online, visit the Frank Crowley Courts Building at 1501 Main St., Dallas, TX 75202. Bring a valid photo ID and know the case number or party name to speed up your request. Most searches take just minutes, and staff are available to help during business hours.
Online Search Tools
The county’s digital platforms let users find felony and misdemeanor records from the past 20 years. You can filter results by defendant name, case number, arrest date, or offense category. Each record shows the court location, judge assigned, prosecutor involved, and whether the case ended in conviction, dismissal, or plea deal. Downloadable PDFs of original filings are also available after identity verification. These tools update nightly to reflect new court actions, ensuring you see the most current information.
In-Person Requests
If you prefer face-to-face help or need certified documents for legal use, go to the District Clerk’s office on the second floor of the Frank Crowley Courts Building. Staff will assist with locating files, printing dockets, and issuing official copies. A fee of $10 per page applies for certified records. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. No appointment is needed, but lines may be shorter early in the day.
Types of Records Available
criminal-records-dallas-county cover both felony and misdemeanor cases handled by county courts. Felonies include serious crimes like robbery, assault, drug trafficking, and murder. Misdemeanors range from traffic violations and petty theft to minor assaults and trespassing. Each record lists the charge, arrest agency, court date, plea entered, verdict, sentence (if any), fines, and restitution orders. Some records also show probation terms or parole status. Expunged or sealed cases are not visible to the public unless authorized by a court order.
Felony Records
Felony records are managed by the District Clerk and include indictments, trial transcripts, plea agreements, and final judgments. These cases are heard in district courts and often involve longer sentences, higher fines, or prison time. Records show the presiding judge, defense attorney, prosecutor, and key hearing dates. Users can download full case files in PDF format after confirming their identity.
Misdemeanor Records
Misdemeanor records fall under the County Clerk’s Criminal Courts Division. These cover Class A and B offenses such as DUI, shoplifting, vandalism, and disorderly conduct. Two appellate courts review decisions from lower municipal and justice courts. Docket sheets, sentencing memoranda, and judgment orders are available on-site or via the online portal.
Who Can Access These Records?
Anyone can access criminal-records-dallas-county because they are public information under Texas law. This includes employers, landlords, researchers, journalists, and private individuals. However, users must agree not to misuse the data for discrimination, harassment, or illegal screening. The county warns that online records should not be used alone for hiring or housing decisions—always verify with additional sources. Minors’ records may have limited visibility, and some sensitive details (like victim names) are redacted to protect privacy.
Employers and Background Checks
Many companies use these records for pre-employment screenings. While the data is accurate and up-to-date, Texas law requires consent before running a background check. Employers must also follow federal guidelines under the Fair Credit Reporting Act if using third-party services. Always cross-check results with state databases for completeness.
Landlords and Rental Applications
Property managers often review criminal history to assess risk. However, Dallas County encourages fair housing practices and advises against automatic rejections based solely on past charges. Consider the nature of the offense, time passed, and evidence of rehabilitation.
Accuracy and Limitations of Online Records
While Dallas County updates its systems nightly, errors can happen. Names may be misspelled, charges mislabeled, or dispositions delayed in posting. Always double-check critical details before making decisions. If you spot a mistake, contact the District Clerk’s office at (214) 653‑5800 or the County Clerk at (214) 670‑3400. They can correct errors or provide clarification. Remember: online records are for reference only. Certified copies from the clerk’s office carry legal weight in court or official proceedings.
Common Issues to Watch For
- Outdated disposition status (e.g., showing “pending” after case closure)
- Incorrect sentencing dates or fine amounts
- Missing plea agreements or dismissal orders
- Duplicate entries under similar names
Fees and Certified Copies
Searching online is free, but certified copies cost $10 per page. These are required for legal filings, immigration applications, or employment verification. Payment is accepted in cash, check, or money order at the clerk’s office. Online requests for certification may incur additional processing fees. Allow 3–5 business days for mailed documents. Rush services are not available.
Fee Breakdown
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Online search | Free |
| Certified copy (per page) | $10.00 |
| Mail request processing | $5.00 |
Privacy and Legal Use
Texas law protects certain personal information in criminal records. Social Security numbers, home addresses, and juvenile records are hidden from public view. Users must agree to terms of use that prohibit harassment, stalking, or commercial misuse. Republishing data without citation may violate copyright policies. Always cite Dallas County as the source when sharing information.
Prohibited Uses
- Denying employment without verification
- Discriminating based on arrest alone (no conviction)
- Selling or redistributing data for profit
- Contacting defendants or victims directly
Contact Information and Office Hours
For help with criminal-records-dallas-county, contact the appropriate office below. Staff can answer questions about search tools, fees, certifications, and record accuracy.
District Clerk (Felony Records)
Phone: (214) 653‑5800
Address: 1501 Main St, Dallas, TX 75202
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
County Clerk (Misdemeanor Records)
Phone: (214) 670‑3400
Address: Same as above
Hours: Same as above
Both offices are located in the Frank Crowley Courts Building. Parking is available nearby, and public transit stops within two blocks. Wheelchair access is provided at all entrances.
Related Services and Resources
Dallas County also offers access to civil, family, probate, and traffic records through the same portals. If you need broader Texas criminal history (including state prison records), visit the Texas Department of Public Safety website. For expungement or record sealing, consult a local attorney or the Dallas County Legal Aid Society.
Frequently Asked Questions
People often ask how to correct errors, whether arrests appear without convictions, and if records ever disappear. Below are clear answers based on current Dallas County policies and Texas law.
Can I remove my criminal record from public view?
In Texas, most criminal records remain public forever unless expunged or sealed by a judge. Expungement clears your record completely but is only allowed for dismissed charges, acquittals, or certain juvenile offenses. Sealing (nondisclosure) hides records from public search but keeps them accessible to law enforcement. You must petition the court and meet strict eligibility rules. Dallas County does not automatically remove old records—even decades-old misdemeanors stay online unless legally restricted.
Do arrests show up if I wasn’t convicted?
Yes. Arrests appear in criminal-records-dallas-county even if charges were dropped or you were found not guilty. Texas law treats arrests as public events, not proof of guilt. However, you can request a “disposition update” if the system shows an open case that’s actually closed. Always check the final disposition field—it should say “dismissed,” “acquitted,” or “nolle prosequi” if no conviction occurred.
How far back do online records go?
Dallas County’s online portal includes felony and misdemeanor cases from the past 20 years. Older records may exist in paper files at the courthouse but aren’t digitized. For cases before 2005, visit in person or submit a written request with the case number and party name. Processing may take several weeks.
Can employers see sealed or expunged records?
No—if a judge has ordered your record sealed or expunged, it must be removed from public databases. Employers who access it through unofficial sources may face legal penalties. However, some government jobs or licenses may still require disclosure. Always provide court documentation to prove your status.
Why do I see someone with the same name as me?
Name matches are common. Always verify using additional filters like birthdate, case number, or address. The system allows narrowing results by these fields to avoid confusion. If you believe someone is using your identity, report it immediately to the District Attorney’s office and request a fraud alert on your record.
Are traffic tickets part of criminal records?
Most traffic violations are civil offenses, not criminal, so they don’t appear in criminal-records-dallas-county. However, serious moving violations like DUI, reckless driving, or hit-and-run are misdemeanors and will show up. Check the charge description to confirm the classification.
Can I get a free copy of my own record?
You can view your record online at no cost. But if you need a certified copy for legal purposes (like visa applications), the $10 per page fee applies. Low-income individuals may request a fee waiver by submitting proof of hardship to the clerk’s office.
Official Links and Direct Access
Use these official Dallas County websites to search records safely and avoid third-party scams:
https://dallascounty.org/government/district-clerk/records-criminal.php
https://www.dallascounty.org/services/record-search/
https://dallascounty.org/criminalBackgroundSearch/
https://www.dallascounty.org/criminalBackgroundSearch/search.jsp
https://www.dallascounty.org/government/county-clerk/criminal-courts/
https://dallascounty.org/government/district-clerk/criminal-section.php
https://www.dallascounty.org/services/public-access.php
https://www.dallascounty.org/government/courts/county_criminal/
Phone: (214) 653‑5800 (District Clerk) | (214) 670‑3400 (County Clerk)
Visiting Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Address: 1501 Main St, Dallas, TX 75202