State Criminal Records

What is it?

A statewide report broadens the search for criminal records by checking multiple counties and looks for criminal records at every available courthouse within that state. Some states house records at a central repository—the case information returned may not be as up to date or accurate as the information at the county level. If a record is located and hasn’t been reported at the county level, the state background report may include the following information: 

• Level of offense
• Disposition
• Sentencing received

Some states do not allow or offer a state-level criminal records search. See the Statewide Source Availability Article for states that do not offer a statewide source. Depending on whether or not the State Criminal Records product is ordered along with other products, the ordering experience can be different.

How does it work?

This search functions differently based on the state being searched. Some states do not make their records available electronically, so they must be searched manually at a county courthouse by clerks, a researcher on-site, or using the same repositories as the clerk. For state records available electronically, the search can be performed online using the same databases utilized by the court clerks.

We recommend using these records as a baseline for pre-employment screening of applicants. Depending on the state, additional access and search fees may apply. 

Who needs this search?

The State Criminal Search is the most likely search to identify if a candidate has a criminal history in the previous 7-10 years that would prevent an employer from moving forward with their employment. 

Why run this search?

While not all crimes are committed at the same level, individuals are most likely to commit a crime in the jurisdiction they currently, or formerly, live in. Running this search will identify criminal convictions in the states they most likely occurred in for your candidate. 

The information and opinions expressed are for educational purposes only and are based 
on current practice, industry related knowledge and business expertise. The information
provided shall not be construed as legal advice, express or implied. 

If you have any further questions, or need a product enabled on your account, 
please contact Verified First Client Services for assistance.

Call 844-709-2708 or email clientservices@verifiedfirst.com