Background checks are a useful screening and selection tool for companies. Of the many types of background checks, criminal background checks are routinely carried out by employers to ensure that they are not courting a risk of physical and mental trauma. In fact, in several states in the U.S, criminal background checks are compulsory for prospects who apply for positions in places such as nursing homes, educational institutions, and adult care centers.

Firms that do background checks have access to records in county courthouses and databases in various states that contain information on those convicted or charged with felony, misdemeanor, or criminal act. Upon receiving a request from a client, the firm researches the county records of the individual