Doing a background check is essential especially if you are an employer. One of the first things to consider when making a background check is to check the California Arrest records to determine if the applicant has any. One can check out the Office of the Attorney General to access criminal records or the Court of California’s online website. The two offer a comprehensive way to access the records. If you are looking for a person who is incarcerated currently, you might want to check the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation website. Please note that the DOJ restricts the access to criminal record for those who are authorized and law enforcement only. Claiming one’s criminal records however is allowed.