Frequently asked questions
Short answers to the questions we hear most often.
Where do these records come from?
From the public jail and inmate-roster systems that Alabama county sheriffs already operate. We do not invent, rewrite, or “research” individual arrests — we collect what those agencies publish. Details are on the Data & sources page.
Is an arrest the same as a conviction?
No. An arrest means someone was taken into custody. A charge is a formal accusation filed in court. A conviction is a finding of guilt by plea or by trial. Many arrests never become charges, and many charges never become convictions.
Why isn't a particular county covered?
Some Alabama counties do not publish a usable public roster, publish only in formats we cannot yet parse reliably, or run systems that are frequently offline. Coverage expands as those barriers come down. If a county you care about is missing, email admin@alarrests.com.
Why is a record still here after the person was released?
County rosters usually drop a person once they leave the facility. We keep a historical copy so a booking remains searchable after release. That is intentional. If a record should be removed for legal reasons (seal, expungement, agency withdrawal), use the takedown form.
How do I get a record removed?
Submit a takedown request with the subject number and the reason. We remove records that have been sealed, expunged, or withdrawn by the originating agency. Records that remain public at the source generally stay online.
Can employers or landlords use this site to screen people?
No. This site is not a consumer reporting agency, and the information here is not a consumer report under the Fair Credit Reporting Act. Using it for employment, housing, credit, or insurance decisions is not permitted. See the Disclaimer.
How do I look up the court case after someone is booked?
Jail records stop updating once a person leaves the facility. Court activity lives in Alacourt / AlaFile and in the circuit clerk's office for the county where the case was filed.
How is bond decided, and can it change?
Bond is set by a magistrate or judge under Alabama law and local schedules. It can be raised, lowered, or denied at a later hearing.
Do you give legal advice?
No. Everything on this site is general information. For advice about a specific case, talk to a licensed Alabama attorney.
How do I reach you?
admin@alarrests.com for editorial questions, or the takedown form for record corrections. Full details on the Contact page.