New Hampshire criminal records come from two main sources: the state criminal history repository (maintained by the state police or equivalent agency) and individual county court systems. These are separate databases that may show different information.
What this page covers: New Hampshire state-level criminal history searches, county court criminal case lookups, and sex offender registry searches. What it does not cover: Federal criminal cases (those require PACER) or arrest records that did not result in charges.
Where to start: For a broad criminal history check, start with the state repository. For specific case details (charges, dispositions, documents), go to the Clerk of Court in the county where the case was filed. For sex offenders, use the state sex offender registry.
Common mistake: A state criminal history search and a county court search are not the same thing. The state repository compiles conviction data from across the state. County courts have the actual case files with full detail. You may need both.
Criminal Records Databases
5 official New Hampshire criminal records sources.
Criminal Records
New Hampshire Counties
All 10 New Hampshire counties. Click any county for local court, sheriff, recorder and assessor links.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a free statewide criminal search in New Hampshire?▼
New Hampshire's official criminal-history repository is operated by the state law-enforcement agency. Free public access to a complete criminal history is generally not available; an official background check typically requires fingerprints and a fee. County-level court records can be searched at no cost through individual court websites.
How do I search New Hampshire court cases?▼
New Hampshire's court system is headed by the New Hampshire Supreme Court. Trial-court business is handled by the Superior Court, Circuit Court (District, Family, Probate Divisions). Many New Hampshire courts publish docket searches and case lookups online — see the Court Records tab above for direct links.
Where do I search New Hampshire business entities?▼
The New Hampshire Secretary of State (or equivalent agency) operates the official business-entity search. You can typically search corporations, LLCs, LPs, and other registered entities by name or registration number. See the Licenses or Business tab above.
What is the difference between Assessor and Recorder in New Hampshire?▼
The Assessor determines property values for tax purposes. The Recorder (or Clerk-Recorder) records deeds, mortgages, liens, and other property documents. Some county offices combine these roles, others keep them separate. Check the specific county page for details.
How do I obtain a New Hampshire birth or death certificate?▼
New Hampshire vital records (birth, death, marriage, divorce certificates) are issued by the New Hampshire Division of Vital Records Administration and, in many cases, by local county clerks. Fees and ID requirements are set by the issuing agency.
Are New Hampshire property records free to search?▼
Most county-level property and recorded-document searches are free for basic information through the Assessor or Recorder website. Certified copies of deeds typically have a per-page fee. Direct links are in the Property Records tab above.
How do I check a New Hampshire sex offender?▼
The New Hampshire sex offender registry is maintained by the state law-enforcement agency under the Sex Offender Registration and Community Notification Act. The registry is searchable by name, ZIP code, or address.