Do Criminal Background Checks Show Warrants?

Hi there, John M. Kaman from Kaman Law Firm here. Today, we’re diving deep into a question that stirs up a lot of curiosity and sometimes concern: Do criminal background checks show warrants? This topic is more intricate than it appears, so let’s dissect it in detail.

Unraveling the Basics of Criminal Background Checks

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of warrants in background checks, let’s first understand what a criminal background check really entails. These checks are a standard procedure in various scenarios like employment screening, tenant applications, and even certain financial transactions. They’re designed to unearth an individual’s criminal history, providing insights into their past encounters with the law.

Key Components of a Criminal Background Check:

1. Criminal History: Convictions, arrests, court records.
2. Sex Offender Status: Checks against national sex offender registries.
3. Personal Information Verification: Identity verification including past addresses and aliases.

Warrants in the Spotlight

Now, focusing on warrants: a warrant is an order issued by a judge or magistrate that authorizes law enforcement to take a particular action, such as making an arrest or conducting a search. There are primarily two types of warrants that might surface in a background check:

1. Arrest Warrants: Issued when there is probable cause to arrest an individual for a specific crime.
2. Bench Warrants: Typically issued if a person fails to appear in court as required.

The Inclusion of Warrants in Background Checks

The big question is, do these warrants appear in criminal background checks? The answer is, yes, warrants can appear in criminal background checks, but there are several factors at play:

• Type of Background Check: Comprehensive national checks are more likely to include warrant information than local or state checks.
• Source of the Check: Different background check providers have access to various levels of information.
• Jurisdictional Limitations: Some warrants, especially those issued in certain jurisdictions or for minor offenses, might not be included.

The Role of National Crime Information Center (NCIC)

The NCIC, managed by the FBI, is a comprehensive database that includes warrant information. While the NCIC is primarily used by law enforcement, certain aspects of it, like outstanding warrant information, can be accessed through broader criminal background checks.

Implications for Employment Screening

In the employment realm, the discovery of an outstanding warrant can be a cause for concern. However, employers must navigate this carefully:

• Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) Compliance: Employers must ensure that their hiring practices, including how they use information from background checks, comply with EEOC guidelines.
• Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA): Under the FCRA, employers are required to get consent before conducting a background check and provide specific notifications if the information in the check affects employment decisions.

The Right to Dispute and Correct Inaccuracies

It’s important to note that individuals have the right to dispute and correct inaccuracies in their background checks. This is crucial because errors in background checks, including incorrect warrant information, can have serious repercussions.

Best Practices for Individuals

If you’re undergoing a background check, here are a few tips:

• Be Aware: Know what might appear in your background check.
• Exercise Your Rights: If there are inaccuracies, especially regarding warrants, take steps to correct them.
• Stay Informed: Understand the implications of a background check on your employment or other opportunities.

Conclusion: Navigating the Complexities

In summary, while criminal background checks can include warrants, their presence and impact depend on various factors. As a legal professional at Kaman Law Firm, I recommend both organizations and individuals approach these checks with knowledge and understanding.

If you’re grappling with issues related to criminal background checks or warrants, feel free to reach out to us at Kaman Law Firm. We’re here to provide clarity and assistance in your legal journey. Stay informed and ahead in the legal game!