At Verified First, we believe a background screening should provide maximum visibility while strictly adhering to compliance standards. We are committed to providing our clients with accurate and compliant background screening services that support fair hiring practices and mitigate risk.
Below is a breakdown of the timeframes we search, the criminal history we report, and the records we exclude.
Reporting Timeframes (The Look-Back Period)
Our standard searches are designed around a 7-year timeframe, but we offer flexibility based on your company's specific policy requirements.
- The Standard 7-Year Scope: We report conviction cases for seven years from the disposition date. If prison or parole release dates are readily available, we will use those dates to determine the 7-year window where allowed.
- Extended Scopes (10-Year & Unlimited): For an additional fee, we offer 10-year and unrestricted look-back options for employers who require deeper visibility.
- Exceptions for Severe Offenses: To prioritize safety, we will report convictions older than seven years for high-severity crimes, including homicide, kidnapping, and any sex-related charges. Please note that this is only done when the records are readily accessible in the main court index and the reporting is explicitly allowed by the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA).
- State-Specific Salary Exception: For candidates in specific states, we may report convictions older than seven years if the annual salary for the position equals, or is reasonably expected to equal, $25,000 or more. This required salary information must be provided to Verified First at the time of order.
Important Compliance Note: If a candidate lives in a state with strict 7-year reporting restrictions, those state laws will override a 10-year or unlimited search scope.
What We Report
If a record falls within the requested look-back period and is permitted by state and federal laws, Verified First will report the following:
- Conviction Cases: We report criminal convictions, providing details on the charge, disposition, and sentencing.
- Pending & Open Cases: We report active, unresolved cases, and will provide the candidate's next scheduled court date whenever that information is available.
- Active Warrants: We report cases with open or active warrants, provided the information is accessible and not restricted by the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) or specific state and local laws.
What We Do Not Report (And Why)
To help you maintain a seamless screening process and minimize compliance risks, we intentionally exclude certain types of records from our reports in accordance with federal guidelines.
- Non-Conviction Cases: We do not report dismissed cases, acquittals, or other non-convictions. We pride ourselves on strictly following the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission’s (EEOC) 2012 best-practice guidance which advises against using non-convictions in employment decisions. By excluding these records, we help you maintain a fair screening process focused strictly on proven criminal history.
- Non-Criminal Offenses: We do not report non-criminal information, including infractions, summary offenses, or civil violations (such as standard traffic tickets).
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
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