To check the status of pending charges in Greenville County, you have several options:
- Online Public Records Search:
Visit the Greenville County website and use their online public records search tool. You can access pending cases by going to the South Carolina Judicial Department’s section for Greenville County Common Pleas and General Sessions. This allows you to search for cases using various criteria such as case number, party name, or filing date range.
- Visit the Clerk of Court’s Office:
Go to the Greenville County Clerk of Court’s office in person. They maintain public computer terminals and index books containing information on convictions in General Sessions court. These resources are available during regular business hours and can provide details on felony records and higher court cases.
- Contact the Records Division:
For a certified records check, reach out to the Records Division at the Law Enforcement Center. You can call them at 864-467-5278 for information on how to obtain an official record check.
- Check the Detention Center Website:
If you’re looking for information on recent arrests or incarcerations, you can search the Greenville County Detention Center website.
- Use the Public Index Online:
Access the judicial public website at www.13th-judicial-circuit.org to search for criminal records, including pending charges.
Advice from professional lawyers:
- Be thorough: When searching for pending charges, make sure to check all possible jurisdictions, including municipal, county, and state courts.
- Understand the limitations: Online searches may not always provide the most up-to-date information. For the most accurate and current status, it’s best to contact the court directly.
- Consider legal assistance: If you’re having trouble interpreting the information or need help understanding the potential consequences of pending charges, consult with a criminal defense attorney.
- Be aware of expungement possibilities: If you have old charges that were dismissed or resulted in not guilty verdicts, you may be eligible for expungement. Consult with an attorney to explore this option.
- Regularly monitor your record: Even if you don’t have pending charges now, it’s a good practice to periodically check your criminal record for accuracy.
Personal experiences shared by individuals:
- “I found the online public records search to be the quickest way to check for pending charges. However, I noticed that sometimes there was a delay in updating the information, so I always followed up with a phone call to the court for the most current status.”
- “When I needed a comprehensive background check, I found it helpful to visit the Clerk of Court’s office in person. The staff was knowledgeable and could guide me through the process of accessing the public terminals.”
- “After dealing with a case of identity theft, I learned the importance of regularly checking my record. I now make it a habit to do a quick online search every few months, just to ensure there are no unexpected charges or warrants in my name.”
- “I once had a charge that I thought was expunged, but it still showed up on a background check. I hired an attorney who helped me navigate the process of properly clearing my record. It’s worth getting professional help if you’re unsure about anything on your record.”
Remember, while these methods can provide valuable information, for the most accurate and up-to-date status of pending charges, it’s always best to contact the Greenville County court system directly or consult a local attorney specializing in criminal law.