Finding the right candidate is crucial for any business, and pre-employment background checks are a vital part of the hiring process. HireRight is a popular choice for these checks, but a common question arises: how far back does a HireRight criminal background check go? The answer isn't a simple number of years. It's more nuanced than that.
Understanding the Scope of HireRight's Criminal Background Checks
HireRight, like other background check providers, adheres to both federal and state laws regarding the information they can legally access and report. This means the depth of their criminal background checks varies significantly depending on several factors:
1. Jurisdiction-Specific Laws:
Each state has its own laws governing the retention of criminal records. Some states may seal or expunge records after a certain period, making them inaccessible to background check companies. Others may retain records indefinitely. Therefore, a HireRight check in California might reveal different information than one conducted in Texas.
2. Type of Offense:
The type of offense plays a crucial role. Felonies are generally retained longer than misdemeanors. Furthermore, certain offenses, like violent crimes or sex offenses, might be accessible for an extended period, regardless of state laws.
3. Age of the Applicant:
While there's no universal age cutoff, some jurisdictions might consider juvenile records confidential after a certain age. HireRight will generally only report on adult criminal records unless mandated by law or specific client requirements.
4. Client Requirements:
The specific requirements of the hiring company also influence the scope of the check. A company may request a check that only looks at the last seven years, while another might require a more comprehensive review covering a longer period.
What Information Does HireRight Typically Include?
HireRight typically searches a range of databases to compile a report, including:
- County, state, and federal court records: This is where the majority of criminal history data resides.
- National databases: These databases may contain information about arrests, convictions, and other criminal activities across various jurisdictions.
Keep in mind that HireRight does not directly access sealed or expunged records. If a record has been legally sealed or expunged, it won't appear in the background check.
Can I Find Out More About My Specific HireRight Check?
The best way to understand the specific scope of a HireRight background check is to:
- Review the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) disclosure: This document provided to the applicant outlines the specific information that was collected and the sources used.
- Contact HireRight directly: They can provide clarification on the specific parameters used for your background check.
- Ask the employer: Your prospective employer should be able to explain their specific requirements for background checks.
Conclusion: No Single Answer
Unfortunately, there's no simple answer to "How far back does a HireRight criminal background check go?" It depends on numerous interacting factors, including state laws, the nature of the offense, the applicant's age, and the employer's specific requirements. Understanding these variables is key to managing expectations and navigating the background check process effectively. Always ensure you're aware of your rights under the FCRA.
