What types of information do I need on the research subject?
We will typically ask the Client to provide the subject's name, date of birth, and Social Security number, if possible, and any other recent information that you may have, including recent addresses, professional affiliations, and/or job resumes/applications. Although it is possible to collect a large amount of valuable information without all of these details, the more verifiable data provided by the Client will ensure a more accurate and thorough report.
Are there any restrictions on the types of information I can get on a subject?
Our firm is legally authorized to access many different types of records, but we will not research any information that is prohibited by law or obtained unethically. Medical records, certain financial records, and certain telephone records cannot be researched due to legal restrictions. Our research will not step outside of the law or be conducted in a manner that is deemed unethical or an unnecessary violation of an individual's privacy.
Do I need to get a release or authorization from the subject to research his background?
Although much of the information we access can be retrieved from public record sources and various databases, certain information can only be provided with a signed authorization from the subject. This includes credit reports and certain motor vehicle and criminal records in certain states. A signed release will aid our research, but we can still provide significant detailed information without one.
How is the information you find presented to me?
Our reports are presented in a professional, easy-to-read format, with the information categorized and separated for easy viewing. Negative information is provided in red type, and positive or verified information is provided in green. We also include searches that did not return results, so you will know what all of our efforts entailed. For security reasons and to protect your organization, certain information on the report will be truncated, including Social Security numbers, driver's license numbers, and dates of birth.
How soon after we submit a request can I expect the report?
In most cases verbal and/or written results based on ordered records can be provided within five business days. However, in some cases reporting may take longer. If, for some reason, we know that we will exceed the expected response date, we will provide the Client with a telephonic update at no additional cost. For Due Diligence searches requiring collection and analysis of a very large amount of information, the turnaround time may be longer. We strive to provide Due Diligence reports within two weeks of the request.
What causes delays?
The custodians (both public and private) who maintain the information we typically seek process requests differently. Each jurisdiction, municipality and employer has its own processes and procedures for responding to information requests. Because of the lack of uniformity, response time varies greatly. Additionally, incomplete or inaccurate information provided by the applicant or the requestor may cause delays.
Are applicants entitled to a copy of your report, and if so, under what circumstances?
The amended Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) requires that when the report is used for employment purposes, the user (our Client) must provide a copy of the report to the applicant in advance of any adverse action, along with a prescribed notice of his or her rights. [§607(c)]
How accurate are your reports?
We take great pride in providing accurate reports in a timely fashion. We also have access to the most accurate and reliable resources. However, because we must often rely on records retained by third parties, inaccuracies do sometimes appear. When brought to our attention, we quickly correct our report and, when appropriate, notify the custodian of the record.
How long are your files retained?
All of our files are maintained for a minimum of five years. There is no charge for file retention and maintenance.
Why can't my Human Resources department or paralegals collect the same information on the subjects?
Some of the information we find is public record, to which most people have access. However, valuable hours may be lost when attempting to gather information if you are not familiar with the most reliable resources and efficient search methods. Due to the experience of our skilled researchers, we are able to find the most accurate information, including information that you may have not known to look for, while not wasting your organization's precious time.
Our firm also has exclusive access to certain resources and nationwide contacts which can provide information that cannot typically be found by others. Moreover, retaining an independent third party to perform your research helps protect your company from certain legal claims. As an external resource, you can rest assured that the information has been provided by experienced, knowledgeable, and unbiased professionals.
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