National Criminal Database vs County Criminal Searches
When it comes to conducting criminal record searches, there are two main types of searches available: National Criminal Database search and County Criminal search. While both searches can provide valuable information about an individual’s criminal history, there are significant differences between the two that are worth noting.
A National Criminal Database search is a comprehensive search that pulls information from various sources and databases across the country. This type of search includes information from federal, state, and county-level databases, as well as sex offender registries and other public records. The advantage of this type of search is that it can cover a broader scope, providing a more extensive record of an individual’s criminal history. However, it is important to note that a National Criminal Database search may not always be up-to-date or complete, as information from some sources may be delayed in entering the database.
A County Criminal search, on the other hand, focuses specifically on an individual’s criminal record within a particular county. This type of search is conducted by directly accessing the county’s court records, which can provide more accurate and up-to-date information than a National Criminal Database search. However, the disadvantage of this type of search is that it may not capture an individual’s criminal history outside of the county searched.
In summary, while both National Criminal Database and County Criminal searches can provide valuable information for background checks, they differ in their scope, accuracy, and completeness. Companies and individuals conducting criminal record searches should carefully consider the specific needs of their search and choose the appropriate type accordingly.
For the most comprehensive background check, companies should consider running both searches together.