There are times in life where you might need to provide a National Criminal History Record Check (NCHRC)—essentially your criminal record, or confirmation that you don’t have one. This document can be required for a range of reasons, including:
- Employment: Many employers request a criminal record check, especially for roles involving security, finance, or positions working with vulnerable individuals.
- Visa Applications: Immigration authorities often require a record check to assess eligibility for visas and residency applications.
- Adoption Applications: Authorities frequently need to confirm applicants’ records to ensure child safety.
Let’s walk through what a criminal record is, how you can get a copy, and why it’s essential to get legal advice if you’re facing court proceedings.
What is a Criminal Record?
Your criminal record is a history of any criminal convictions you’ve received, including fines, penalties, or other orders resulting from court proceedings. Even a minor conviction, like a fine for certain offenses, is recorded and could appear on your criminal record.
This is why obtaining legal advice before attending court is so important. A criminal conviction can impact your future opportunities, making certain applications or processes more challenging, such as visas, job applications, or even family-related applications.
Who Can Request a Copy of Their Criminal Record?
To request a criminal record check, you must:
- Be a NSW resident
- Be at least 14 years old
If you meet these criteria, you’re eligible to request a record check through official channels.
Where Can You Request a Copy of Your Criminal Record?
In New South Wales, there are a few ways to request your criminal record:
- NSW Police Force
- Application: You can apply online through the NSW Police website.
- Australian Federal Police (AFP)
- Application: You can apply online through the AFP website.
- Accredited Agencies
- Several private agencies are authorized by the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission (ACIC) to provide criminal history checks. These agencies can process applications quickly, often within 24 hours, making them a convenient option for urgent needs.
- Tip: When choosing an accredited agency, ensure they’re authorized by ACIC to guarantee the legitimacy of your certificate.
Why Legal Advice Matters
Having a criminal record can complicate your future plans and may affect applications, such as those for travel visas or job roles in sensitive sectors. This is where obtaining legal advice early on can make a difference. If you’re facing charges, a criminal lawyer can help assess the likelihood of conviction and advise on options to avoid long-term impacts on your record.
Coastal Lawyers is here to help you understand your rights and provide expert advice if you’re concerned about potential convictions or are preparing for a court appearance.
If you need guidance on managing or understanding your criminal record, or if you’re facing a criminal matter, contact Coastal Lawyers. We’re ready to provide the advice and support you need to make informed decisions about your future.
Written by Coastal Lawyers- Central Coast Criminal Lawyers
Coastal Lawyers are Central Coast Criminal Lawyers located on the Central Coast at Erina.
Coastal Lawyers represent criminal law clients in all areas of criminal law, traffic law and apprehended and domestic violence (ADVO) and private personal violence orders (APVOs).
Founded by a former prosecutor and former police officer, with over 20 years combined experience we are experienced and confident advocates regularly appearing before the Local Court, District Court and Supreme Courts of New South Wales.
Coastal Lawyers appears at the Wyong Local Court, Gosford Local Court and the Gosford District Court as well as Supreme Court bail applications as required.
If you have been charged by police with a criminal offence then early legal advice is often crucial to the success of your case. Book in a 1 hour Strategy Session today.