The Benefits of a Federal Criminal Record Search as part of your Background Check
A Federal Criminal Records Search provides record information that is not available or included in a traditional criminal search which is conducted at the county or state level. This search is processed by searching the Public Access to Court Electronic Records (PACER) federal index for any potential record hits. Federal record hits can uncover additional records related to violations of federal criminal law. This may include tax evasion, fraud, embezzlement, mail and wire fraud, immigration law violations, postal offenses, interstate drug trafficking, arms violations, kidnapping charges, and other related crimes that may have occurred on federal property and have violated federal law.
A Federal Criminal Record Search
- Search all Federal District Criminal Courts
- Identify criminal cases heard in a Federal District Court
- Reports federal criminal offenses such as white-collar crimes, crimes that cross state lines, trafficking, etc.
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What Shows Up on a Federal Criminal Record Search?
Investigating a federal criminal history for a background check can reveal a number of details about an individual’s criminal history. For example, it can show whether the person has been arrested and charged for a crime. It also can tell you the type of offenses on that person’s record and how serious they may have been. A search also may contain information concerning any convictions and sentences. However, it is important to note that employers may not be able to receive all such information regarding a job candidate depending on the law. There may be restrictions on what type of information an employer can be provided when requesting a federal criminal background check for employment.
How Far Back Does a Federal Criminal Record Search Go?
Although a federal criminal history record search offers insights into an individual’s background, it does not cover a person’s entire lifetime. There are strict rules set in place, specifically as part of the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA). One of the most important of these is the fact that arrests not resulting in convictions cannot be reported if they occurred more than seven years prior to the request. Depending on where you do business, there also may be state or local laws that put additional restrictions on how far back a criminal history search can reach. Our experts can help you understand what kind of information you can receive and why.
How Is a Federal Criminal Record Search Different Than a National Criminal Database Search?
Although they sound similar, these two processes are distinct and yield different results. A federal criminal history search collects information specifically from federal courts, excluding any details concerning an individual’s local or state criminal records. On the other hand, a national criminal database search means collecting information from multiple federal, state, county, and local agencies and courts. Employers interested in getting the most complete picture of a job candidate should consider taking advantage of both.
Employers Choice Screening Offers Comprehensive Services
Not only can we provide you with fast, dependable results from a federal criminal record search, but also we offer a host of other services to help you vet potential new hires. These include a county criminal record search, a statewide criminal record search, and criminal background check services. If you want to know more about everything we have to offer, reach out and speak with one of our knowledgeable representatives today.