You should be familiar with the different types of background checks and what’s included so you know what to expect and how each type of check can help you make timely and informed hiring decisions based on your industry and the positions for which you’re hiring. These include:
Criminal record checks: National criminal background checks, as well as state, federal and county criminal checks, report felony and misdemeanor convictions and current pending court cases. Depending on your provider’s policies, dismissed charges within seven years may also be reported. Examples of charges that may appear include vandalism, public intoxication, disorderly conduct, violent or sex crimes, fraud, and embezzlement. Employers use criminal record checks to assess whether a candidate could pose a threat to customers or create an unsafe work environment.
Civil court checks: County and federal civil court checks can help you learn about non-criminal suits, claims, and judgements where the candidate is listed as a respondent. These may include small claims, restraining orders, violations of civil rights, and bankruptcies, and may be especially important for positions where employees will have financial or management responsibilities. Learn More.