Employers often turn to county courts as their first line of defense when it comes to criminal records searches. And indeed, county searches can net important and relatively convenient access to pertinent information on a job applicant. But you should understand both their assets…and their liabilities.

County criminal searches are available for every county across the United States. They’re generally accurate, up to date, and provide quick access. They also tend to offer the most detailed criminal records of any available search venue.

A county search includes felony convictions and can also include misdemeanor convictions. But county searches do not contain federally prosecuted crimes. And with more than 3,000 United States county court houses currently active, county-based background checks can be challenging…especially with applicants who have moved frequently, or in instances where the applicant’s address verification data is incomplete.

Why do a county search when a statewide search is available? Because statewide searches can vary dramatically in terms of their reliability and completeness. Even the most diligent searches in some states may leave gaps in the data – sections of the state may go unreported, or the information may not be the most up-to-date available. In those instances, a county search plus a statewide search will net the most comprehensive and reliable results.

Because state, federal and county searches each offer their own potentially vital banks of information on an applicant, your background screening team should help you decide which combination of searches will provide you with the right blend of decision-making and risk-management data. Our expertise and experience translate to smart, efficient use of your company’s resources.