Background Search

[smme]

I would like to do a background check on a potential nanny/sitter and I was wondering how to do it. I know I can obtain criminal records at the court house, but what about outstanding arrest warrants? There are a ton of "databank" searches (which claim they can find out conviction and warrant info) available on the web, but can you really trust them? I've read that these searches usually only cover outstanding felony arrest warrants and aren't very accurate.

Do I have to hire a PI or can I call/visit the county court myself? I would rather find out this information myself to save money, so if it's possible I'd appreciate any information.

Thanks in advance for your advice!

[JKT]

Pay a visit to your local County/District clerks office (depending where you are).

Most of what you are looking for is public record and can be accessed from a computer in the clerks office. This will have conviction information and possibly any outstanding warrants. You might also call the local Sheriff's Department's Warrant Division (again, depending upon where you are). They are generally cooperative about that information, especially if there is an outstanding warrant and you know where the person can be found.

Best of luck,

[gracedawn]

smme, I would suggest that you search through the public records as you indicated above but also if your really concerned then you can create a sort of background form for this person to fill out. You can go over the answers she provided and request a finger print on the paper. (voluntarily of course) The questions can be simular to a job application including parents names and address and other familly address. You can also check her name through a Megan's Law computor. When the public run a check on Megan's Law they have to fill out some paper work, but it is a service provided for the public so it is worth checking into. The background questionar and optional fingerprint is a scare tactic. Good luck