Statewide Criminal Search
Statewide Criminal Searches offer HR teams and hiring managers a broader lens into an applicant’s background by scanning criminal records across an entire state. Unlike single-county searches, these reports uncover offenses that might otherwise go undetected—helping you make informed decisions with greater peace of mind.
Edify’s Statewide Criminal Search leverages both electronic access and in-court researchers (when required) to pull the most up-to-date felony and misdemeanor case information. This includes detailed case history, identifiers, and charge data, ensuring that your background checks meet your organization’s due diligence requirements.
How It Works
- Identifies counties lived in using Social Trace data.
- Searches all available court records within the state.
- Pulls complete case history: charges, dates, dispositions, and sentencing.
When to Use It
- When an applicant has lived in multiple cities within a state.
- As a supplement to a county-level or national database search.
- For roles with public trust or sensitive access across state lines.
TAT & Fees
- Typical turnaround: 1–3 business days.
- Fees vary by state; some courts charge access fees.
- Automatically included if required by your screening package.
Why It Matters
Statewide Criminal Searches are a crucial tool for comprehensive hiring decisions. They fill in the gaps left by national database checks, especially in states with centralized reporting systems. Employers reduce liability, avoid negligent hiring risks, and demonstrate diligence by screening beyond just the applicant’s county of residence.
Use-Cases
- Healthcare organizations hiring multi-location staff.
- Retailers screening applicants who have relocated within the state.
- Contractor staffing firms working with state government agencies.
Statewide Criminal Search FAQs
Q: Does this replace a County Criminal Search?
A: No, it’s best used alongside county searches for full coverage.
Q: Are all states available for statewide searches?
A: No, availability varies by state. Contact us to confirm specific states.
Q: What happens if a record is found?
A: All findings are verified at the original court source before reporting, per FCRA rules.
Authoritative Source
For more on background screening laws and compliance, visit the FTC, CFPB, and EEOC. Edify Screening proudly follows the best practices set by the Professional Background Screening Association (PBSA).
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