Reasons to Run a State Criminal Record Check on a Nanny

Conducting a state criminal record check on a nanny can help parents avoid hiring a nanny who may pose a risk to the safety of the family’s children, possessions or property. Parents can utilize state criminal records checks to avoid hiring a dangerous caregiver or what whose criminal record makes her an undesirable caregiver.

The availability of criminal records and the method of obtaining them can vary from state to state. Criminal records can be housed in county courts, federal records, proprietary databases and/or state repositories.

In some states, criminal information from county criminal information is compiled into a repository. Each state has its own laws that determine what type of information and how much of that information is provided to the state repository. Since the repository is based on information provided by local jurisdictions, it is only as good as the information provided and only as current as the most recent informational update. In addition, state laws may restrict access to specific records, returning incomplete results.

The information gathered in a state search can reveal which county court records in the nanny should be searched. If a state criminal record is found on a nanny candidate, the records can then be checked and confirmed in country that was listed on the record.

Parents must be aware that the information revealed in a state criminal record check can’t always be legally used against a candidate for pre-employment screening. States set restrictions on what types of information in an individual’s criminal history can be used for employment consideration. States also put restrictions on how many years back an employer can consider when using criminal history for employment decisions.

State criminal background checks must be conducted in accordance with the Fair Credit Reporting Act. Nannies must provide authorization for a background check and must be given a disclosure regarding the check.

A nanny is someone you are bringing into your home to care for the most precious ones in your life – your children. Can you ever be too careful when choosing the right caregiver for your little ones? No.

Here are 10 reasons to run a state criminal records check on your nanny candidate.

  1. Criminal history can speak to a nanny’s character. Parents entrust their nannies with the wellbeing of their children and expect them to have sound judgment. A violation of the law can be an indication of poor choices and blatant disregard of the law.
  2. A state search can help you identify which county records to search. If a state record appears with an adverse incident, the incident can be confirmed and more thoroughly investigated in the appropriate county.
  3. A state criminal background check can confirm information provided on the application. If a nanny says she has no criminal history and she is found to have one, she’s falsified information on her application, positioning her to be an untrustworthy candidate.
  4. A state criminal background search is geographically wide. A state search checks records provided from local jurisdictions. Some states have much better state repositories then others. In the states with good repositories, a state search is a true statewide search.
  5. A state criminal background search typically yields quick results. With a state repository the records are all in one place, making it quicker to search. Some states have their repositories online for more convenient access.
  6. Reluctance to provide authorization could be a red flag. A nanny who refuses or is hesitant about providing authorization could have something to hide.
  7. A state criminal record search can confirm your feeling on a caregiver. If you feel good about a candidate, a clean record can confirm your instincts that she doesn’t have a criminal history.
  8. A state criminal record search can prevent you from hiring a risky caregiver. Nannies provide care in your private home, often unsupervised. Caregivers who have a history of theft, violence or other undesirable behaviors don’t belong caring for children.
  9. A state criminal record search helps you better know your potential employee. Don’t leave room for doubt. Use as many tools as you can to gather information about a candidate you wish to hire.
  10. A state criminal record search can reveal a history of substance abuse. Parents can’t afford to hire a caregiver who has alcohol or substance abuse issues. A criminal history may reveal a history of alcohol or substance abuse.

While it can be awkward to ask a nanny candidate for authorization to run a state criminal background record search, it’s vital you do. Experienced caregivers are prepared to undergo rigorous pre-employments screening and they want parents to feel confident they are hiring the right caregiver for their family.

For more information on background screenings please review our Guide to Nanny Background Checks.