Criminal Background Checks

Hiring new employees can be daunting for any employer, as it is crucial to find the right candidate who fits the job requirements and aligns with the company’s culture. However, with the increasing incidences of employee-related criminal activities, employers cannot take chances when hiring. That’s where criminal background checks come in.

Conducting thorough background checks, including criminal background checks, has become a crucial step in the hiring process. These checks provide employers with valuable information about an applicant’s employment history and education and help identify any criminal history that could pose a risk to the workplace.

Criminal background checks are particularly important in ensuring a safe and secure workplace. These checks can reveal any previous convictions, arrests, or pending charges an applicant may have. This information is crucial as it helps employers make informed hiring decisions, avoid potential legal liabilities, and reduce the risk of workplace accidents or incidents.

Moreover, criminal background checks can help build trust and credibility between employers and employees. Employers can instill confidence in their employees and create a positive work environment by demonstrating a commitment to maintaining a safe and secure workplace.

Keep reading to dig deeper into the importance of criminal background checks for employment and how they can help you create a safe and secure workplace for your employees.

What is a criminal background history check?

A criminal background check involves searching various criminal records databases to identify criminal history or charges against an individual. This can include records from local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies. A criminal background check aims to assess whether a candidate has a criminal history that could threaten the safety and security of the workplace, co-workers, or customers.

It is important to note that there is a difference between a background check and a criminal background check. A background check typically includes verifying a candidate’s employment history, education, and other relevant information. On the other hand, a criminal background check focuses on identifying any criminal activity in which an individual may have been involved.

Employers who wish to conduct criminal background checks as part of their hiring process must ensure that they comply with various state laws regulating the use of criminal records. These laws impose specific restrictions on how employers use an applicant’s criminal history. For example, some states forbid employers from inquiring about arrests that did not result in a conviction, except when the charges are still pending.

In contrast, other states permit employers to ask about convictions only if they are directly related to the job’s duties. In addition, some states require employers to consider specific facts about an applicant’s criminal record, such as the seriousness of the crime and any rehabilitation efforts, while making hiring decisions. Several states have even passed “ban-the-box” laws that prevent employers from asking about an applicant’s criminal history until a job offer is extended. Employers must comply with state laws related to criminal background checks to avoid potential legal issues and allegations of discrimination.

Criminal background checks for employment

In today’s competitive job market, employers must make informed hiring decisions to ensure they bring in the best candidates. With this in mind, many companies conduct criminal background checks as part of the hiring process. While this may seem intrusive or unnecessary to some job seekers, employers have several valid reasons for conducting criminal background checks for employment.

Ensuring workplace safety

One of the primary reasons why employers conduct criminal background checks is to ensure the safety of their workplace, employees, and customers. By identifying any criminal history or charges, employers can make informed decisions about whether a candidate is suitable for the position and whether their past behavior threatens the safety and security of the workplace.

Protecting vulnerable populations

In some industries, such as healthcare, education, or childcare, employees may be entrusted with the care and safety of vulnerable populations such as children, elderly or disabled individuals. Conducting criminal background checks can help ensure that individuals with a history of abuse or neglect are not employed in these sensitive positions.

Meeting legal requirements

Employers may also be required to conduct background checks on employees in sensitive areas such as security, law enforcement and firefighting. Many states have laws that require employers to conduct background checks on employees working in these fields. In addition, many employers choose to conduct background checks as a matter of best practice or policy. Employers may also be required by law to report any crimes committed by their employees. Therefore, they must conduct criminal background checks before hiring individuals with a history of criminal activity.

Protecting company assets

Employees may have access to sensitive company information or assets in certain industries, such as finance or banking. Conducting criminal background checks can help ensure that individuals with a history of financial crimes or fraud are not employed in these positions.

Maintaining public trust

For organizations with a public presence or operating in sensitive industries, such as law enforcement or government agencies, conducting criminal background checks can help maintain public trust and confidence in the organization’s integrity and ability to perform its duties effectively.

While conducting criminal background checks may not be necessary or appropriate for every position, they can be a valuable tool for employers to make informed hiring decisions and ensure the safety and security of their workplace. However, it’s crucial to ensure that criminal background checks are conducted fairly and in compliance with applicable laws and regulations, and that all candidates are given a fair opportunity to explain any criminal history or charges that may appear on their record.

Criminal Background Checks by Atlantic Employee Screening

When making critical decisions about potential employees, volunteers, or tenants, having access to reliable and accurate information is crucial. One of the most critical elements to consider is an individual’s criminal history. At Atlantic Employee Screening, we understand the importance of thorough criminal background checks and strive to provide our clients with the most accurate, up-to-date information available. Our team of experts uses the latest technology and industry best practices to deliver comprehensive background screening services to our clients.

Criminal background checks involve a meticulous process of searching through various databases and records to uncover an individual’s criminal history. At Atlantic Employee Screening, we use a comprehensive approach that collects information from multiple sources, including national databases, county court records, and state criminal records. We use this information to verify an applicant’s identity and search for any criminal history, including felony and misdemeanor convictions, arrests, and warrants.

A criminal background check by Atlantic Employee Screening provides a detailed report of an individual’s criminal history. Depending on the jurisdiction and applicable laws, this includes information on arrests, convictions, pending cases, and even dismissed or expunged records. Our reports may also include details about the nature of the offense, dates, and any associated penalties or sentences. The report may also include information on sex offender registries, terrorist watchlists, and other relevant databases.

It’s important to note that some information may not be included in a background check due to legal restrictions on reporting certain records. We are always transparent with our clients about any limitations that may apply.

At Atlantic Employee Screening, we prioritize efficiency without sacrificing accuracy. The turnaround time for a criminal background check varies depending on the complexity of the search and the databases being accessed. On average, our clients can expect to receive their results within 24-72 hours. However, some inquiries may take longer, especially if they involve international records or require manual verification of information.

Ordering a criminal background check from Atlantic Employee Screening is simple and straightforward. Our clients can submit a request through our secure online portal, and our team will take care of the rest. Our team will begin the search process and notify you once the report is ready for review. We provide fast and reliable service, ensuring our clients receive accurate, up-to-date information to make informed hiring decisions.

Don’t Risk Making a Bad Hire – Contact Atlantic Employee Screening Today

Making a bad hire can be costly for businesses financially and in terms of company reputation. Don’t risk your company’s success by hiring someone with a criminal record that could have been discovered with a thorough background check. Choose Atlantic Employee Screening for reliable and comprehensive criminal background checks.

Contact us today to learn more about our services and how we can help you make informed hiring decisions. Our team is ready to answer your questions and provide you with the information you need to choose the right background check package for your business. Trust Atlantic Employee Screening provides the background screening services you need to build a strong, reliable, and trustworthy team.