Why Some People Are Paying Twice to Remove the Same Arrest Record

July 1, 2025

An arrest record can follow you for years, even after the legal process ends. Whether you’re applying for a job, renting a home, or simply trying to move forward, that record can resurface in background checks, online data brokers, and public records sites. For many, the logical step is to get it removed. But here’s the problem: some people are unknowingly paying twice—or even more—for the same record removal.

What Is an Arrest Record?

An arrest record is an official document that details a person’s interactions with law enforcement. It includes the date of arrest, charges filed, case outcomes, and other identifying information, such as name, birth date, and physical description. Even if charges were dropped or the case was dismissed, the record may still appear in public databases, court records, or background checks.

These records are often stored in national systems, such as the FBI’s Interstate Identification Index (III), and are shared across various agencies, websites, and data brokers. Access to this data can have long-lasting consequences, especially if it’s available to employers, landlords, or other decision-makers.

Why Do People Want to Remove Their Arrest Record?

The presence of an arrest record can limit opportunities in employment, housing, education, and more. Even one arrest—without a conviction—can impact how people perceive you.

Common reasons for removal include:

• Avoiding employment discrimination
• Preventing housing denial
• Reducing stigma in professional or social settings
• Protecting personal privacy and security online

For many, removing this record means reclaiming control over their narrative. However, completing the process isn’t always straightforward, especially when records are scattered across various sites, courts, and databases.

How Can an Arrest Record Be Removed?

There are three primary legal methods for removing or restricting access to an arrest record:

1. Expungement

Expungement is a legal process that permanently deletes an arrest or charge from your criminal history. Once expunged, the record is removed from public view, and in most cases, you can legally say it never happened.

Steps to expungement:

• Verify eligibility (not all charges qualify)
• Obtain certified copies of your court documents
• File a petition with the appropriate court
• Attend a hearing (in some cases)
• Wait for a decision and follow through with all required actions

2. Record Sealing

Sealing doesn’t erase your record, but it restricts who can see it. Most employers and landlords won’t have access, but law enforcement and some licensing boards may still have access.

Typical use cases:

• Dismissed charges
• Juvenile offenses
• Misdemeanors after a waiting period

3. Pardon

A pardon is an act of forgiveness from the governor or president. It doesn’t erase the record, but can restore rights or show rehabilitation. It’s rarely the first step, but it can be helpful in cases where expungement isn’t possible.

Why Are People Paying Twice?

Many people don’t realize that their arrest record lives in multiple places:

• Courthouse databases
• State police systems
• FBI databases
• Private background check sites
• Data broker websites

They might pay a lawyer or service to remove the record from one location, only to discover it’s still visible elsewhere. Then they end up paying again to handle a new site, court, or website that still lists the data.

Other common reasons for duplicate payments include:

• Confusion between expungement and sealing (they’re not the same)
• Filing in the wrong jurisdiction or court
• Starting with one legal process, then realizing another is required
• Paying for removal from public records but not private websites

What Are the Costs Involved?

Record removal can be costly. Here’s what people typically pay for:

• Filing fees with the court
• Certified copies of case documents
• Attorney fees (often several hundred to several thousand dollars)
• Document procurement and notary fees
• Data broker or third-party removal services

Some even pay for services that promise complete removal but only cover one database or website, leading to frustration and repeat charges.

How to Avoid Paying Twice for the Same Arrest Record

1. Know where your record appears
Start by running a background check on yourself. Look at official court websites, state repositories, and data broker platforms. Create a list of where your information is visible.

2. Clarify your legal strategy
Determine whether you need an expungement, record sealing, or simply removal from online databases. One action doesn’t cover all access points.

3. Ask for itemized services
Whether you’re hiring a lawyer or a private removal firm, ask exactly which records or platforms they handle. Make sure they provide proof of action or confirmation when work is completed.

4. Look for bundled or all-in-one options
Some reputation or legal services offer complete packages that cover expungement and takedown from online directories. These may cost more upfront, but save money in the long run.

5. Use verified resources
Check with state bar associations, public defenders, or nonprofit legal aid groups. Some offer free or low-cost assistance and can guide you to the appropriate legal actions.

What Role Does the Connection Between Agencies Play?

Understanding the connection between various agencies and databases is crucial. Records often flow from local courts to state police and then to federal databases, such as the FBI’s. This interconnected system means removing a record from one source doesn’t guarantee it’s removed from all. Effective removal requires coordinated efforts across these connected systems.

How to Contact Relevant Authorities for Removal?

To properly remove or seal an arrest record, you often need to contact multiple entities:

• Local courthouse or clerk’s office
• State police or the Department of Public Safety
• Federal agencies, if applicable
• Private data brokers or background check companies

Each may have different procedures and requirements, so maintaining clear communication and documentation during the process is essential.

What About Alternatives to Hiring a Lawyer?

If legal fees are a concern, there are self-help options. Many courts offer step-by-step guides and forms on their website. Look for legal aid programs, court self-help centers, or nonprofit organizations in your area.

While completing paperwork on your own can be more time-consuming, it’s a cost-effective option for those comfortable managing the process.

Key Resources:

• Your local court’s expungement page
• State legal aid organizations
• Community legal clinics

Final Thoughts

Paying to remove an arrest record can be a decisive step toward reclaiming your reputation and protecting your future. But without a clear plan, it’s easy to fall into the trap of paying for the same result more than once.

By understanding how arrest records are stored, accessed, and removed, and by recognizing the crucial connection between agencies and the need to contact all relevant parties, you can take smarter, more efficient action. Whether you’re sealing court files or removing your name from an online website, every step counts toward rebuilding trust and opportunity.

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