What will a Criminal Background Check Show?
When applying for a job, loan, or other opportunities, an individual may be required to undergo a criminal background check. This process involves an investigation into an individual’s criminal history to determine whether they have any prior criminal convictions or arrests. A criminal background check may reveal a wide range of information, including:
Contents
- 1 Types of Records Included in a Criminal Background Check
- 2 What a Criminal Background Check Will Not Show
- 3 The Information Included in a Criminal Background Check Report
- 4 How Long Does a Criminal Background Check Take? And What are the Methods Used?
- 5 What to Do If You Have a Criminal Background Check Done
Types of Records Included in a Criminal Background Check
A criminal background check typically includes records from:
• State and Federal Courts: Felony and misdemeanor convictions, as well as other court records such as guilty pleas, plea bargains, and court-ordered fines.
• Arrest Records: Arrest records, including those that were later dismissed or resulted in acquittal.
• Parole and Probation Records: Records of supervision, violations, and violations of parole or probation terms.
• Sex Offender Registry: Information from sex offender registries, including the type of offense and the individual’s current address.
• Wanted and Fugitive Records: Information on outstanding warrants and fugitives.
What a Criminal Background Check Will Not Show
A criminal background check is not a guarantee of someone’s criminal innocence or guilt. The following records are typically not included in a criminal background check:
• Infractions: Minor infractions, such as parking tickets or traffic violations, are usually not included in a criminal background check.
• Misdemeanor Arrests Without Convictions: Arrests that resulted in acquittal or no conviction are typically not reported.
• Juvenile Records: Juvenile records, including those sealed or expunged, are not typically included in a criminal background check.
• Private Records: Records kept by private organizations, such as employment records or educational records, are not usually included in a criminal background check.
The Information Included in a Criminal Background Check Report
A criminal background check report typically includes:
| Type of Record | Information Included |
|---|---|
| Convictions | Date of conviction, crime committed, sentence (e.g., fine, imprisonment) |
| Arrests | Date of arrest, crime alleged, and disposition (e.g., acquitted, conviction) |
| Parole and Probation | Terms of supervision, violations, and results of violations |
| Sex Offender Registry | Name, address, and details of the offense |
| Wanted and Fugitive | Outstanding warrants, descriptions of the individual, and any aliases |
How Long Does a Criminal Background Check Take? And What are the Methods Used?
The time it takes to complete a criminal background check varies depending on the specific requirements and the agency or organization conducting the check. Typically, it can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks. There are several methods used to conduct a criminal background check, including:
• Database Searches: Automated searches of criminal justice databases, such as FBI’s National Crime Information Center (NCIC) database.
• Manual Research: Manual searches of records at local courthouses, police departments, or other government agencies.
• Online Search: Electronic searches of public records, such as online court dockets or arrest records.
• Background Check Agencies: Private companies that conduct background checks on behalf of employers, landlords, or other organizations.
What to Do If You Have a Criminal Background Check Done
If you have a criminal background check done, it is essential to be prepared for the results. Be honest and forthright about your criminal history, and be prepared to explain any convictions or arrests. Understand that a criminal background check does not necessarily determine your employment or housing eligibility.
In conclusion, a criminal background check is a tool used to investigate an individual’s criminal history. While it can reveal a range of information, it is essential to understand what records are included and what are not. By being aware of the types of records included and excluded, and the methods used to conduct the check, individuals can better prepare themselves for the results.
