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Knox County Criminal Records

What Is Knox County Criminal Records

Knox County criminal records are official documents that detail an individual's criminal history within Knox County, Tennessee. These records are maintained by the Knox County Criminal Court Clerk's office and include information about arrests, charges, court proceedings, and case dispositions. Criminal records serve as an important resource for law enforcement agencies, employers conducting background checks, and individuals researching their own legal history.

Knox County Criminal Court Clerk's Office: 400 Main Street, Suite 416, Knoxville, TN 37902

Are Criminal Records Public In Knox County

Yes, criminal records in Knox County are considered public records under Tennessee law. This means that most criminal case information is accessible to the general public. The Tennessee Public Records Act establishes that government records, including court records, should be available for public inspection unless specifically exempted by state law.

However, certain records may be sealed or expunged under specific circumstances, such as juvenile records or cases that have been dismissed or expunged through proper legal procedures. Additionally, some sensitive information within records may be redacted to protect privacy.

Knox County Records Management: 311 Court Avenue, Knoxville, TN 37902

How To Look Up Criminal Records In Knox County in 2025

In 2025, Knox County offers several methods to look up criminal records:

  1. Visit the Knox County Criminal Court Clerk's office in person to request records.
  2. Use the online docket search system available through the Criminal Court Clerk's website.
  3. Submit a written request for records by mail or email.
  4. Access the Tennessee Administrative Office of the Courts' public case history search tool.
  5. Utilize third-party background check services that compile public record information.

For the most comprehensive and accurate results, it's recommended to use the official county resources. The Criminal Court Clerk's office can provide certified copies of records for official purposes.

Tennessee Administrative Office of the Courts: 511 Union Street, Suite 600, Nashville, TN 37219

How To Find Criminal Records in Knox County Online?

Finding Knox County criminal records online is straightforward through these methods:

  1. Visit the Knox County Criminal Court Clerk's website and navigate to the docket search section.
  2. Enter the required information such as the defendant's name or case number.
  3. Review the search results, which typically include case numbers, charges, and court dates.
  4. For more detailed information, you may need to create an account or pay a fee.

Additionally, the Tennessee Courts website provides access to a statewide case search that includes Knox County cases. This system allows you to search for criminal cases across multiple jurisdictions in Tennessee.

Knox County Criminal Court Clerk (Online Services): 400 Main Street, Suite 416, Knoxville, TN 37902

Can You Search Knox County Criminal Records for Free?

Yes, you can search basic Knox County criminal records information for free. The Knox County Criminal Court Clerk's website offers a free docket search function that provides limited information about criminal cases. Additionally, you can visit the clerk's office in person to view public records at no cost.

However, there are fees associated with:

  • Obtaining certified copies of documents
  • Comprehensive background checks
  • Printed copies of court records
  • Access to certain detailed case information online

The fee structure is established by Tennessee state law and Knox County regulations, with typical document fees ranging from $0.15-$5.00 per page depending on the type of document and certification requirements.

Knox County Records Management (Fee Schedule): 311 Court Avenue, Knoxville, TN 37902

What's Included in a Knox County Criminal Record?

A typical Knox County criminal record contains:

  • Personal identifying information (name, date of birth, address)
  • Arrest information (date, location, arresting agency)
  • Charges filed (including statute numbers and offense descriptions)
  • Court proceedings (hearing dates, judge assignments)
  • Case disposition (guilty, not guilty, dismissed, etc.)
  • Sentencing information (if convicted)
  • Probation or parole details (when applicable)
  • Court costs and fines assessed
  • Warrant information (if issued)

The level of detail may vary depending on the case and how you access the records. Official court documents will contain the most comprehensive information.

Knox County General Sessions Court: 400 Main Street, Suite 416, Knoxville, TN 37902

What Are the Penalties for a Knox County Criminal Trespass Charge?

In Knox County, criminal trespass is typically charged as a Class C misdemeanor under Tennessee law. The penalties may include:

  • Up to 30 days in jail
  • Fines of up to $50 (not including court costs)
  • Possible probation
  • Restitution if property damage occurred

For aggravated criminal trespass, which involves entering property and causing fear of bodily harm, the charge elevates to a Class B misdemeanor with:

  • Up to 6 months in jail
  • Fines of up to $500

Repeat offenses or trespassing in certain locations (such as schools) can result in enhanced penalties. Additionally, a criminal trespass conviction creates a permanent criminal record that may affect employment opportunities and housing applications.

Knox County District Attorney General's Office: 400 Main Street, Suite 168, Knoxville, TN 37902

How Long Does Knox County Keep Criminal Records?

Knox County maintains criminal records indefinitely unless they are legally expunged or sealed. Tennessee law does not provide for automatic expungement after a certain period for most criminal convictions.

However, certain records may be eligible for expungement under specific circumstances:

  • Charges that were dismissed
  • Cases resulting in not guilty verdicts
  • Certain non-violent first offenses after completion of all sentencing requirements and a waiting period
  • Diversion program completions

The expungement process requires filing a petition with the court and paying applicable fees. If granted, the record is removed from public access, though it may still be visible to law enforcement agencies for certain purposes.

Knox County Chancery Court (Expungements): 400 Main Street, Suite 125, Knoxville, TN 37902

Lookup Criminal Records in Knox County

For comprehensive access to Knox County criminal records, the following resources are available: