Conducting criminal record searches is a vital part of employment screening, helping businesses make informed hiring decisions while ensuring workplace safety and compliance. However, not all criminal background checks are the same. Employers must understand the different types of searches available and choose the right one based on their specific hiring needs.
Here’s an overview of the primary types of criminal record searches and how they differ.
1. County Criminal Record Searches
What It Covers:
- Searches for criminal records at the county level, where most cases originate.
- Includes felonies, misdemeanors, and sometimes traffic offenses.
Best For:
- Employers looking for the most up-to-date and detailed information.
- Roles requiring a thorough background check, such as positions in healthcare, finance, and childcare.
Limitations:
- Limited to specific counties where the search is conducted.
- May require multiple searches for candidates who have lived in different locations.
2. State Criminal Record Searches
What It Covers:
- A broader search that compiles records from various counties within a state.
- Includes felony and misdemeanor convictions reported at the state level.
Best For:
- Employers seeking a wider scope beyond a single county.
- Positions requiring verification of criminal history within a candidate’s state of residence.
Limitations:
- Not all states maintain a centralized criminal database.
- Some records may only be available at the county level.
3. Federal Criminal Record Searches
What It Covers:
- Searches federal court records for crimes prosecuted at the federal level.
- Includes offenses like fraud, tax evasion, drug trafficking, and crimes that cross state lines.
Best For:
- Employers in industries regulated by federal guidelines, such as banking, government contracting, or transportation.
Limitations:
- Does not include state or county-level criminal offenses.
- Requires additional searches to get a complete background check.
4. National Criminal Database Searches
What It Covers:
- Aggregated data from various sources, including state agencies, local courts, and sex offender registries.
- Provides a broad overview of potential criminal history across multiple jurisdictions.
Best For:
- Initial screenings to identify potential red flags before conducting more in-depth searches.
Limitations:
- May not be as accurate or up-to-date as county or state-level searches.
- Should always be supplemented with direct court searches for verification.
Choosing the Right Search for Your Hiring Needs
The most effective background screening strategy often involves a combination of these searches. Consider factors such as:
- The industry and level of responsibility for the role.
- Legal compliance requirements (e.g., state-mandated background checks).
- The candidate’s location and prior residences.
By working with a trusted background screening provider like Metrodata Services, you can ensure your criminal record searches are accurate, compliant, and tailored to your hiring needs.
Get Comprehensive Criminal Record Searches with Metrodata Services
At Metrodata Services, we provide thorough and FCRA-compliant criminal background checks to help businesses make informed hiring decisions. Whether you need county, state, federal, or national searches, we can customize a screening package to meet your needs.
Contact Metrodata Services today to streamline your background screening process and protect your workplace.
Request a No-Obligation Background Screening Services Consultation