What is a reliable screen? Not all background checks are created equal and in the case of database only screens, they are dangerous and unreliable.

The reality is that even the best “national” database contains records from only about 50% of U.S. Courts. The other half can only be found by searching directly at the county level. Also, you may be using an “instant” database, which returns results immediately or within a few hours. Because these hits are not verified, there may be missing or incomplete information.

Verifying hits at the court of record is the best way to ensure they are the most accurate and up-to-date. Databases are an excellent supplement to county level searches but are too dangerous to be used as a sole source.