Adverse Criminal Record Certificates

Adverse Criminal Record Certificates (“CRB checks” or “DBS checks”)

Criminal records checks – formerly called Criminal Record Bureau (CRB) checks – are now known as Disclosure and Barring Service checks (DBS).

DBS checks can sometimes reveal information about an individual that might prevent them from taking a certain job – or even travelling to a particular country.

Adverse criminal record certificates may even reveal information such as an arrest that occurred, but which did not result in any further action.

However, the information on a person’s record might be enough for them not to be able to pursue their chosen career or visit a country for business purposes.

With more emphasis on security and background checks, it is essential to take expert legal advice on adverse criminal record certificates and DBS checks – and how any data on records held by the police might affect an individual’s work or family life.

We frequently advise on data protection and the retention and disclosure of criminal records – including the unlawful disclosure of DBS records by the police.

Our Action Against Public Authorities solicitors are well placed to advise on adverse criminal record checks – including how to prevent adverse criminal records from being created, and having adverse records removed from personal data held by the police.

In cases where adverse criminal record certificates have been unlawfully disclosed, we can also advise on making a police complaint for breach of privacy – as well as advising on how to claim compensation from the police force involved.

There is a 12-month limit on making a police complaint, unless there is good reason for the delay.

Duncan Lewis may be able to secure legal aid, or to offer a no win no fee arrangement for advising on police complaints and claims – with competitively priced rates for privately funding a claim or After the Event (ATE) insurance, if either legal aid is unavailable or where a no win no fee basis is not possible.

For expert legal advice on actions against the police and adverse criminal record certificates, call Duncan Lewis Action Against Public Authorities solicitors in confidence on 0333 772 0409.