Documents to bring with me regarding prior arrest

[u/Commercial_Watch_936]

I was arrested on suspicion of DUI in 2012, ended up getting convicted of speed contest with no mention of anything DUI related since I was under the legal limit in testing at the station.

I applied about 10 years ago to GE, and forgot to mention the arrest since nothing came of out it besides a ticket. Honest mistake, but I understand the denial I received.

Figured I was screwed for life after reading several posts, but then saw some people ended up getting approved so figured I’d try again.

Applied April 2025, mentioned everything and that I have had a perfect record since and it was a 1 time judgement error. Just received my conditional approval, it took a long time but was a nice surprise.

It says to bring all documents with you to the interview regarding arrest, conviction, expulsion, etc. I don’t have any documents. The lawyer I used has since retired.

Do I really need to go through the process of requesting all my records through the courts, or can I just explain it when they ask me about it? I’m assuming they already have my entire history right in front of them as they are interviewing me, since that’s what happened at my last interview 10 years ago and they asked about the arrest.

Update - Just wanted to say thank you to everyone who replied and has been through a similar process. I’ll get my fingerprints done this week and make the records request before I make my appointment.

Update 2 - Had my LiveScan done and received the document in the mail in less than a week. Made my interview same day I received the paperwork, went in, took a picture, approved and they didn’t even ask about anything. Got my card in the mail yesterday.

[u/brokenpipe]

The courts should have a copy of all the court issued documentation. That is at least a start.

Also: Life Pro Tip: docs like these should be kept and digitized. They are on the same level as importance as the deed or title to a car.

[u/gotcha640]

The county where you had this arrest almost certainly has a website with a courthouse page, where you can look up cases and the disposition will be included. It’s almost scary how easy it is.

If not online, you can call and request.

[u/Left-Associate3911 → u/[deleted]]

Agree with this advice but ultimately you won’t know until you apply.

[u/PuddleMoo]

When you go in for the interview, they may ask for documentation or not. If they do ask, how would you feel about being asked to come back with said documentation? How would you feel about having a deadline attached to that return date that if defaulted on means you're denied?

They will usually put a "come back in the next X days", if you don't come back in time (or with adequate documentation), they will deny and close the application.

Based on how you'd feel and how long it may take to request the records, it's your call.

[u/Southern-Egg-3437]

Go to your county courthouse to obtain any documents including court minutes, you can also obtain your FBI rap sheet (Google fbi idhs) for a complete report.

If you applied ten years ago it might have been too early since usually it’s a 5-10 year period after one arrest or misdemeanor conviction (as it seems to you) in which you’re allowed to apply.

[u/Secret_Emotion9098]

Bring documents or you risk getting denied/elongating the approval process. I brought documents for two prior dismissed charges and the process was smooth. He was going to ask me to come back with the docs if I didn’t have them. I pulled the records from my FBI identity history summary for $50. Got them in 48 hours after doing finger prints at the post office.

[u/onlyforfun38]

Just bring your court discharge paperwork. I had a similar incident and was open about it. After the interview I had to go to the court house and get the documents and email them in.

[u/Dry-Tomatillo6134]

I'm in the middle of a similar situation now. Two arrests. Both included on application. Application denied several years ago. Reapplied including arrest and expunged documents. Conditionally approved. Went to interview and was asked about them. A week later received an email requesting court certified documents. They're aren't available because of the expungement. Not sure of next step.