Which entities typically have access to unexpunged criminal history records?

• A. General public
• B. Criminal justice agencies only
• C. Employers
• D. Legal counsel

Answer: (B)

Typically, unexpunged criminal history records are accessible primarily by criminal justice agencies, which include law enforcement, prosecuting attorneys, courts, and correctional facilities. This access is crucial for these agencies to perform their functions, such as investigating crimes, prosecuting offenders, and overseeing rehabilitation. These records are considered sensitive and are meant to help agencies make informed decisions during criminal investigations and legal proceedings.

The general public, while they might access some basic information about criminal histories through public records, does not have unrestricted access to detailed unexpunged records. Employers may have access to criminal history information, but it is usually limited and regulated; they often require the individual's consent to obtain it. Legal counsel can access these records to defend or prosecute a case, but they are also considered part of the criminal justice system and operate within that structure. Hence, criminal justice agencies hold primary access to these records for the purposes related to law enforcement and public safety.