There are a number of businesses that now require the successful completion and passing of a certified criminal record background check before the person can be employed by their company.  Businesses use these background checks to ensure that potential applicants have not been convicted of a criminal offense in the past that could have negative implications for their business, such as theft, embezzlement or fraud.

Different companies may look for different things on the certified criminal background check of their applicants.  Industries where the employees have close contact with children will generally disqualify any individuals that have convictions for child abuse, neglect, or domestic violence appearing on their background check.  Companies in the financial industry are concerned about applicants that have been convicted of financial crimes, such as numerous different types of theft and fraud.

In most cases, the company that is looking to hire the employee will obtain and pay for the certified criminal record background check of employees that are otherwise qualified for the position.  The company first obtains permission from the applicant to conduct the background check and if the background check is the reason the person is disqualified from the position, the company will inform the applicant of its findings.  Many companies make submitting to a background check a condition of employment with the company and individuals that refuse to consent to a background check are disqualified from employment with the company.