Is there any way of checking whether a potential partner has a criminal record?

[summersun0]

Just that really!

You could google his name or if you have a genuine reason behind this contact non emergency police and ask about Claire's law. I'm not sure what the criteria is though

Not in the sense of getting a complete criminal record check.

But there are things you can do:

a) apply under Sarah's law if the person concerned is however in to have access to a child
b) apply under Clare's law if your concern is domestic violence (here's a useful leaflet from Manchester police
c) google (probably not helpful if they have a common name)
d) search page of local newspaper if you know where they were living at the time you're concerned about

Thank you! Very useful

d) search page of local newspaper if you know where they were living at the time you're concerned about

Or more effectively, search on a new/media database - plenty of libraries will have access to these type of computer databases.

It's will be much easier if your target has an unsual name. It would be easier to find out whether a Myra Hindley had a criminal conviction than a John Smith.

Access to the Police National Computer is very restricted and police accessing this info without a policing reason (ie. because a "friend" wants to know) are acting illegally.

*news/media database

If you do nt trust them and feel the need to check the relationship is doomed

I think this is a good idea. Basically you can't trust ANYONE that you don't know well, no actually you can't even trust people you do know.

For example I was shocked to learn that my uncle had a serious GBH conviction from before I was born - he just doesn't seem like the type!

There are other men I've met with all sorts of secrets some of them I grew up with & when I meet their current partner I wonder if they know their history.

Personally I have secrets about my health that I won't be sharing with a potential partner for a very long time..

I think OP is right to check.

You can apply under claires law to check if they have any conditions relating to domestic violence, stalking or harrassment but the police will only disclose this information if you can prove that you (or friend or relative whole safety you are concerned for) is in a relationship with them. Im not sure what kind of proof, they will also only release details of 'relevant crime' and only if it is deemed that yourself (or someone else) may be at possible risk.
If you are asking this questions for yourself though i would say that gut instinct is a strong sign there is something wrong. While i think such laws are a really positive step forward in protecting people i would also say that you feel the need to check this, then your instinct is probably trying to warn you.
Hasthere been red flags that are alerting you to possible threat or isnt just your past experience telling you to be cautious?

The questions to ask yourself are Has he been abusive to you, does he have an alcohol or drug problem ?