Episode Description

Today we explore the critical importance of background checks beyond traditional employment screening. Discover why these investigations have much more use than you might think, and learn about real cases where background research revealed shocking information that changed everything.

Key Topics Covered

• Employment Background Check Laws by State
  • Some states prohibit criminal background checks during pre-employment evaluation
  • Certain states require bona fide job offers before checking criminal history
  • Other states completely ban criminal history checks for employment
  • Employers must understand their local laws and regulations
• Consumer Background Checks: When You Need to Know
  • Background checks aren't just for employers - individuals can benefit too
  • Researching people before engaging in certain activities or relationships
  • Understanding legal limitations on how records can be used
  • Importance of getting proper legal advice before acting on information
• Case Study #1: The Psychiatrist with Hidden Problems
  • Client's child was seeing a psychiatrist who seemed "off"
  • Research revealed serious financial issues including recent bankruptcy and open liens
  • More troubling: psychiatrist's spouse had serious criminal convictions
  • Spouse's crimes included aggravated assault, resisting arrest, police pursuit, harassment, stalking, and cyber crimes
  • The spouse worked in the psychiatrist's office in an administrative capacity
  • Parents decided to find a different mental health provider
• Case Study #2: The CPA Cutting Corners
  • Client had concerns about their CPA after working together for a year
  • CPA was handling payroll and basic accounting, preparing to do taxes and long-term financial planning
  • Background check revealed CPA was running two unlicensed businesses
  • While the businesses weren't illegal, they required proper licensing that the CPA didn't have
  • Raised questions about willingness to cut corners on client's taxes and financial advice
• Case Study #3: Dangerous Contractors in Your Home
  • Building contractors and general contractors often have criminal records
  • Mid to lower-end contractors found on Craigslist and Facebook pose particular risks
  • These contractors have access to your home, see your assets, and learn your routines
  • Sample checks of contractors on various platforms revealed serious crimes
  • Found attempted murder, narcotics trafficking, endangering child welfare
  • One case involved a contractor whose improperly equipped truck killed someone
• Why Contractors May Have Criminal Records
  • Many take construction jobs because traditional employment is impossible or unappealing
  • Some can't work in office environments or around people in social settings
  • Background issues or lifestyle choices prevent traditional company employment
  • Construction companies are desperate for employees and may cut corners on background checks
  • Even large companies and federal government are relaxing background check requirements
• Understanding Civil Records and Lawsuits
  • Be careful when evaluating someone based on lawsuit history
  • Anyone can get sued once - look for patterns of being sued and losing
  • Consider whether someone frequently sues others (litigation-prone behavior)
  • Some businesses naturally involve more disputes and litigation
  • Don't discriminate against someone for exercising their legal rights
  • Be especially careful with employment decisions based on civil records
• The Reality of Background Checks
  • No "magical" FBI background check available to private companies
  • Police officers don't have access to FBI background checks during traffic stops
  • Information comes from multiple sources: local courts, civil records, criminal records, arrest records
  • Typical background check requires 10-14 hours of manual labor
  • Much information available through social media and public records
  • Professional investigators know where to search and how to compile comprehensive reports

Key Takeaways

• Background checks have applications far beyond employment screening
• Always understand the legal limitations of how background information can be used
• Financial problems and criminal history of associates can impact service quality
• Contractors and service providers who work in your home deserve extra scrutiny
• Civil lawsuit history requires careful interpretation
• Professional background checks involve extensive manual research from multiple sources
• When in doubt, seek legal advice before making decisions based on background information

Resources Mentioned

• Website FAQs and additional videos available
• Private consultation services offered
• Phone consultations available for specific questions

Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Always consult with qualified legal professionals before making decisions based on background check information.