Ordering Tips

Q: What is the difference between a county search and a statewide search?

One of the most misunderstood aspects of tenant screening is the way that criminal records are researched.  There is no nationwide system that combines court records from all 50 states.  Maintaining and organizing criminal records is the responsibility of each individual state. The accessibility of the information is determined by state and/or county regulations.  It is important to recognize the difference between records kept on a county level and those maintained in a statewide system.  Understanding the pros and cons associated with each system will help you determine which search best suits your needs.

County search pros:

- A county search includes the most up to date information available.
- Records usually come directly from the courthouse instead of a database.

County search cons:

- County searches only cover a limited geographical area.
  - Searching several counties can be more expensive than searching the state.

Statewide search pros:

- A statewide search covers most counties in the state.
- A statewide search can be less expensive than searching each county individually.

Statewide search cons:

- Statewide searches are not available in all areas.
- Some states use databases that are updated infrequently and may exclude some counties. Our representatives have a thorough understanding of the criminal record system in every state.  We can explain the specifics of each state's court system and make suggestions regarding which search would be best for you.

Q: How long does it take to get information when conducting a background search?

The average turnaround time for a background search is 1 to 2 business days.

Q: What is the most accurate type of criminal record search?

A county court search for both felony and misdemeanor records is usually the most revealing source of information.

Q:  What is a National Criminal Database Search?

The National Criminal Database is a database compiled by private agencies collecting information from a variety of sources. Multiple sources, including some county records, some state Department of Corrections files; Sexual Offenders lists (from states requiring offenders to register) may contribute to the database. There may be felonies, misdemeanors or some traffic violations included in the database depending on the reporting source. Not all states or all counties report information to database providers and criminal information contained in the databases may not include dispositions, later amendments to the files or notices that the case has been expunged.

The NCDS is useful in providing a broader scope to a criminal search by including a greater geographic search area and is a good first step in a progressive search but it is not intended to replace a physical search of court records or to stand alone as a criminal records search.

Q: What is a statewide criminal records search? Does every state offer this information?

A statewide criminal records search offers information from the county courts on arrests for felony and misdemeanor crimes (depending on the state). The information is based on the data provided to the state from each reporting county. At this time, approximately 26 states offer this information.