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What does a criminal background check look like?

What Does a Criminal Background Check Look Like?

When applying for a job, loan, or rental property, you may be asked to undergo a criminal background check. But what does it entail, and what can you expect to see in the results? In this article, we’ll delve into the details of a criminal background check and provide a comprehensive overview of what you can expect.

What is a Criminal Background Check?

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A criminal background check is a process of verifying an individual’s criminal history by searching public records and databases. The check typically includes a review of the individual’s criminal records, including arrests, convictions, and sentences. The purpose of a criminal background check is to determine whether an individual has a criminal history that may impact their ability to obtain a job, loan, or rental property.

Types of Criminal Background Checks

There are several types of criminal background checks, including:

  • Local Checks: These checks search local law enforcement databases and court records for criminal history.
  • Statewide Checks: These checks search statewide databases and court records for criminal history.
  • National Checks: These checks search national databases, including the FBI’s National Crime Information Center (NCIC) database.
  • Federal Checks: These checks search federal databases, including the FBI’s NCIC database and the U.S. Department of Justice’s National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) database.

What is Included in a Criminal Background Check?

A criminal background check typically includes the following information:

  • Arrests: A list of arrests, including the date, location, and charges.
  • Convictions: A list of convictions, including the date, location, and charges.
  • Sentences: A list of sentences, including the type of sentence (e.g. prison, probation, fine) and the length of the sentence.
  • Mugshots: A photograph of the individual, often taken at the time of arrest.
  • Fingerprints: A set of fingerprints taken at the time of arrest or booking.
  • Criminal History Summary: A summary of the individual’s criminal history, including the types of crimes committed and the dates of arrest and conviction.

What Does a Criminal Background Check Report Look Like?

A criminal background check report typically includes the following sections:

  • Summary Page: A summary of the individual’s criminal history, including the types of crimes committed and the dates of arrest and conviction.
  • Arrest and Conviction History: A list of arrests and convictions, including the date, location, and charges.
  • Sentence History: A list of sentences, including the type of sentence (e.g. prison, probation, fine) and the length of the sentence.
  • Mugshot and Fingerprint Page: A photograph of the individual, often taken at the time of arrest, and a set of fingerprints taken at the time of arrest or booking.
  • Additional Information: Additional information, such as the individual’s name, date of birth, and social security number.

Example of a Criminal Background Check Report

Here is an example of what a criminal background check report might look like:

SummaryArrest and Conviction HistorySentence History
John Doe, born 12/12/1990Arrested on 02/15/2010 for DUISentenced to 30 days in jail
Convicted of DUI on 03/15/2010Probation for 1 year
Arrested on 06/01/2012 for theftSentenced to 1 year in prison
Convicted of theft on 07/01/2012Released from prison on 06/01/2013

What to Expect During a Criminal Background Check

During a criminal background check, you can expect the following:

  • Application: You will be asked to complete an application, which will typically include your name, date of birth, and social security number.
  • Fingerprinting: You may be required to provide fingerprints, which will be used to verify your identity and check for any criminal history.
  • Waiting Period: The background check may take several days or weeks to complete, depending on the type of check and the jurisdiction.
  • Results: You will receive a report detailing your criminal history, including any arrests, convictions, and sentences.

What to Do if You Have a Criminal Record

If you have a criminal record, it’s essential to be upfront and honest about it during the application process. You may be asked to disclose your criminal history, and failing to do so could result in your application being denied or your employment being terminated.

Conclusion

A criminal background check is a thorough process that can provide valuable information about an individual’s criminal history. By understanding what a criminal background check report looks like and what to expect during the process, you can better prepare yourself for the application process and make informed decisions about your future.

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