By Attorney Ramy M. Louis
Managing Partner, The R.M.L. Law Firm, PLLC
Former Nassau County Prosecutor

If you have been arrested in Nassau County or Suffolk County, it is natural to worry about how that arrest may affect your job or future career opportunities. With employment background checks becoming more common, understanding how employers can access criminal court records in New York is critical.

This information can directly impact major decisions in your case, including whether to accept a plea deal, seek dismissal, or fight the charges in court. Speaking with a knowledgeable Long Island criminal defense lawyer can help protect your future.

How Employers Find Criminal Court Records in New York

Employers may uncover criminal history information through several different sources, each with varying levels of access and visibility.

Division of Criminal Justice Services DCJS Records

The New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) maintains detailed criminal history records tied to fingerprints.

What You Should Know About DCJS Records

  • Fingerprint-based system that follows an individual regardless of name changes
  • Limited access primarily available to law enforcement and government agencies
  • Self-review option allowing individuals to request their own DCJS record

Office of Court Administration OCA Criminal History Searches

The Office of Court Administration (OCA) maintains a statewide database of criminal court cases that is frequently used in employment background checks.

What You Should Know About OCA Records

  • Name-based searches using name and date of birth
  • Public access available to anyone willing to pay the search fee
  • Includes convictions and open cases unless sealed

FBI Criminal History Records

The FBI maintains a national fingerprint-based criminal database that may include New York arrests and convictions.

  • Primarily accessed by government agencies
  • Less commonly used by private employers

How to Minimize the Impact of an Arrest Record

Dismissed Cases

When a case is dismissed, charges are dropped and the record is often eligible for sealing.

Acquittals After Trial

A not guilty verdict results in automatic sealing under New York law.

Adjournments in Contemplation of Dismissal ACD

An ACD allows a case to be dismissed and sealed after a compliance period, typically six months to one year.

Declination of Prosecution

When prosecutors decline to pursue charges, the case is dismissed, limiting employment consequences.

Voided Arrests

Arrests that never result in prosecution may be sealed as voided arrests.

Minor Offenses and Record Sealing in New York

Disorderly Conduct

Under New York Penal Law § 240.20, disorderly conduct is a violation, not a crime, and may be sealed.

Harassment

Harassment under Penal Law § 240.26 is also a violation and may be eligible for sealing.

Important: Nassau and Suffolk County prosecutors often require a waiver of sealing as part of plea negotiations. An experienced Long Island criminal defense attorney can often negotiate removal of this condition to protect your career.

Family Court and Juvenile Records

Juvenile delinquency matters handled in Family Court are generally sealed for employment purposes.

Youthful Offender Adjudications

Youthful Offender status allows eligible individuals between ages 14 and 18 to avoid a permanent criminal record.

Why Work With a Long Island Criminal Defense Attorney

Protecting your record requires local experience and strategic advocacy. At The R.M.L. Law Firm, PLLC, we focus on results that safeguard your freedom, reputation, and career.

  • Former Nassau County prosecutor insight
  • Local experience in Nassau and Suffolk County courts
  • Tailored defense strategies

Speak With a Long Island Criminal Defense Lawyer Today

If you are concerned about how a criminal case may affect your employment, contact our office to discuss your legal options.

Contact us for a free, confidential consultation.