Employers often use criminal background checks as part of the hiring process to review an applicant’s criminal history. However, not all records are included in a background check, and the information that appears in a report depends on several factors, including legal requirements, reporting standards, and verification procedures.
Direct Screening provides background screening services designed to return accurate and reportable criminal record information in a clear and consistent format.
Verified Criminal Records
Criminal background checks typically include criminal records obtained from lawful public record sources, such as county courts and authorized government repositories.
To help ensure accuracy, records are verified at the county level when potential matches are identified. This verification process helps confirm that the record is current, complete, and associated with the correct individual.
If no potential records are identified, results may return quickly. If a potential record is found, additional research is required before the report is completed.
7-Year Lookback Period
Most criminal background checks are limited to a defined reporting timeframe.
Direct Screening reports criminal conviction records within a standard 7-year lookback period, measured from the disposition date. This consistent reporting window helps maintain compliance across multiple jurisdictions while providing relevant and timely information to employers.
Records That Are Not Reported
Certain types of records are not included in criminal background reports.
These generally include:
- Arrest-only records
- Pending criminal cases
- Non-convictions
- Deferred adjudications or withheld adjudications
- Civil matters
These exclusions help ensure that reports focus on verified and reportable criminal history.
Identity Matching Requirements
To reduce the risk of false positives, background checks rely on strict identity matching criteria.
Direct Screening only reports records that meet specific matching requirements, including an exact name match and a matching date of birth. Additional identifying information, such as a middle name, may help further confirm identity and reduce delays during the verification process.
When Results May Be Delayed
Not all background check results are instant.
If no potential records are found, results may return quickly. However, if a potential match is identified, the report will move into a pending status while county-level verification is completed.
This process typically takes one to two business days, although turnaround times can vary depending on court availability, holidays, and other local factors.
Differences Across Jurisdictions
Criminal record availability and reporting can vary depending on the jurisdiction.
In some states, certain records may be sealed, expunged, or otherwise restricted from reporting. Additionally, not all courts provide electronic access to records, which can affect how and when information is retrieved.
Because of these differences, background checks are designed to return only records that are both available and reportable under applicable guidelines.
Accurate and Responsible Reporting
Background screening is subject to legal and compliance requirements, including the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA).
Direct Screening operates as a Consumer Reporting Agency (CRA) and follows established procedures to ensure that reports include accurate, verified, and reportable information.
Summary
Criminal background checks are designed to provide employers with verified and reportable criminal history information.
While reports may include conviction records within a defined timeframe, certain records such as arrests, pending cases, and non-convictions are not included. Verification processes and strict matching criteria are used to help ensure accuracy and consistency.
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If you have questions about what appears on a criminal background check or need assistance with screening services, we would be happy to help.