If you have ever been accused or arrested of a crime you most likely have had a mug shot taken of you. This mug shot is kept on file at your local courthouse and although you can not use it for identification you can typically obtain a copy for your own personal records. The exact law may differ slightly depending on the state you live in or the county you were arrested in, but usually you are allowed to have a copy of your mug shot because it is a public record.
Step 1
Go to the courthouse where you had your trial or where you had your mug shots taken.
Step 2
Ask the clerk for a copy of your mug shot. More than likely you will be asked why you want a copy and who you are in relation to the person in the shot. If you are the individual or a family member (or the individual's lawyer), say so and indicate that it is for personal records. You can not actually use the mug shot for anything. If you are a member of the press your county may not allow you to obtain the mug shot.
Step 3
Pay the processing fee for the mug shot. Once you have paid for the picture, the clerk makes a photocopy of your mug shot and gives it to you.
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Writer Bio
Greyson Ferguson is a graduate of the Savannah College of Art and Design with a degree in film and television. He currently resides in Lansing, Michigan where he works on independent film projects and writes for numerous publications. Ferguson primarily focuses on computer and electronic articles. Greyson produces TheDailyUpbeat.com, focusing on only upbeat news stories with daily updates.