What does criminal background check show?

What Does a Criminal Background Check Show?

When applying for a job, renting an apartment, or even adopting a child, a criminal background check may be required. But what exactly does it show? A criminal background check is a thorough investigation of an individual’s criminal history, including any arrests, charges, convictions, and court dispositions. In this article, we will explore what a criminal background check typically shows and what you need to know.

Types of Criminal Background Checks

There are several types of criminal background checks, including:

• Local criminal background checks: This type of check reviews the individual’s criminal history in the specific jurisdiction where they are applying for a job, apartment, or other opportunity.
• State criminal background checks: This type of check reviews the individual’s criminal history across all jurisdictions within a specific state.
• National criminal background checks: This type of check reviews the individual’s criminal history across the entire United States.
• Federal criminal background checks: This type of check reviews the individual’s criminal history in relation to federal crimes.

What a Criminal Background Check Typically Shows

A criminal background check typically shows:

• Arrests: A list of arrests made by law enforcement agencies, including the date, location, and charges filed.
• Charges: A list of charges filed against the individual, including the type of charge and the jurisdiction where it was filed.
• Convictions: A list of convictions, including the crime, sentence, and any prison or jail time served.
• Court dispositions: A list of the outcomes of court proceedings, including acquittals, dismissals, and expungements.
• Mugshots: In some cases, a mugshot may be included as part of the criminal background check.
• Warrants: A list of outstanding warrants, including the type of warrant and the jurisdiction where it was issued.

What is NOT Included in a Criminal Background Check

While a criminal background check can reveal a wealth of information about an individual’s criminal history, there are some limitations:

• Sealed or expunged records: Records that have been sealed or expunged by a court are typically not included in a criminal background check.
• Minor infractions: Many criminal background checks do not include minor infractions, such as traffic violations or misdemeanor offenses.
• Dispositions that are older than a certain age: In some cases, older dispositions may not be included in a criminal background check.

How a Criminal Background Check is Conducted

A criminal background check is typically conducted by a third-party vendor, who uses various databases and repositories to gather information about the individual’s criminal history. The process typically includes:

• Database searches: The vendor searches various databases, including state and national repositories, to gather information about the individual’s criminal history.
• Record requests: The vendor requests records from law enforcement agencies, courts, and other government entities to obtain more information.
• Verification: The vendor verifies the accuracy of the information obtained through the search process.

What Employers Look for in a Criminal Background Check

Employers often use criminal background checks to screen potential employees, volunteers, or contractors. They may be looking for information such as:

• Violent crimes: Employers may be particularly interested in information about violent crimes, such as assault or battery.
• Sexual offenses: Employers may be interested in information about sexual offenses, such as rape or molestation.
• Property crimes: Employers may be interested in information about property crimes, such as theft or burglary.
• Drug-related offenses: Employers may be interested in information about drug-related offenses, such as drug possession or distribution.

The Impact of a Criminal Background Check on Employment Opportunities

A criminal background check can have a significant impact on employment opportunities. Even if an individual has no recent criminal activity, a conviction or arrest from several years ago can still raise red flags with potential employers. In some cases, an individual may be required to disclose a criminal history as part of the employment application process.

Conclusion

A criminal background check is a thorough investigation of an individual’s criminal history, including any arrests, charges, convictions, and court dispositions. While a criminal background check can reveal a wealth of information about an individual’s criminal history, there are some limitations to what is included. Employers often use criminal background checks to screen potential employees, volunteers, or contractors, and a conviction or arrest from several years ago can still impact employment opportunities.

Table: Criminal Background Check Results

Bullets List: What to Know About Criminal Background Checks

• A criminal background check can show arrests, charges, convictions, and court dispositions.
• A criminal background check can be used by employers, landlords, and other organizations to screen potential employees, volunteers, or contractors.
• Even minor infractions may not be included in a criminal background check.
• A criminal background check can be used to determine eligibility for certain jobs, apartments, or other opportunities.
• Employers may be particularly interested in information about violent crimes, sexual offenses, property crimes, and drug-related offenses.