Level 2 Criminal Background Checks: A Thorough Overview
Cindy Ellis - July 14, 2023
In a world where appearances can be deceiving and online personas may not accurately reflect someone’s true character, background checks serve as a reliable means of obtaining objective and factual information. They empower individuals and organizations to make well-informed decisions and effectively mitigate risks.
Whether you are driven by personal motives, such as evaluating a potential romantic partner, reconnecting with long-lost family members, or professional endeavors like hiring employees or forming business partnerships, background checks provide invaluable insights that enable us to exercise sound judgment.
There are several types of background checks, each designed to assist in verifying information, assessing credibility, and identifying potential risks or red flags. But today, we will dive into the world of Level 2 criminal background checks, exploring their crucial role in making well-informed decisions.
Join us as we delve into the components that shape these checks, navigate the complex legal landscape surrounding them, draw comparisons with Level 1 background checks, and shed light on the industries and positions that demand meticulous vetting.
Level 2 Background Checks: What Are They?
When assessing the suitability of job applicants or conducting thorough screenings, employers and organizations often turn to Level 2 background checks – a comprehensive and detailed national investigation that offers in-depth insights into an individual’s past.
At its core, a Level 2 criminal background check surpasses surface-level information, delving into an individual’s encounters with the law. It typically involves accessing state and federal criminal databases, such as the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) and the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to obtain broader information about an individual’s criminal history. This includes records of convictions, arrests, pending charges, warrants, and other relevant legal proceedings.
The primary objective of a Level 2 background check is to unearth an individual’s criminal past, shedding light on felony convictions, sex-related offenses, and other pertinent criminal records. However, in certain instances, these checks may also involve additional facets such as reviewing credit reports, conducting reference checks, and verifying credentials.
Given the complexity and expertise required, third-party companies are usually the best option to conduct Level 2 checks. These entities possess the necessary resources and knowledge to navigate the intricacies of accessing databases, verifying information, and conducting meticulous screenings. Moreover, such a process necessitates compliance with several legal requirements, including the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) and various state-specific regulations.
The Components of a Level 2 Criminal Background Check
A Level 2 criminal background check comprises several essential components contributing to its comprehensive nature. Let’s delve into each one better to understand the depth and thoroughness of these checks.
State and Federal Criminal Records
Level 2 checks leave no stone unturned regarding an individual’s criminal history. These checks venture into both state and federal criminal record repositories, providing decision-makers with a holistic view of an individual’s interactions with the law.
By accessing records such as convictions, arrests, pending charges, warrants, and other legal proceedings, Level 2 checks provide vital information for informed decision-making.
Fingerprinting
One distinguishing feature of Level 2 checks is the inclusion of fingerprinting. By collecting an individual’s fingerprints, authorities can perform meticulous analysis and comparison against national databases, including those maintained by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
Fingerprinting serves as a unique identifier, bolstering the accuracy and reliability of the identification process. It significantly reduces the risk of mistaken identity or incomplete records, ensuring a more thorough background check.
Sex Offender Registry Search
Level 2 background checks routinely incorporate searches of sex offender registries. This critical step aims to identify individuals convicted of sex-related offenses. By conducting thorough examinations, decision-makers can proactively ensure the safety and well-being of vulnerable populations, such as children or older people.
This measure serves as a safeguard, particularly in contexts where individuals may have contact with those at higher risk, creating a safer environment for all involved.
Validating Professional Licenses and Certifications
In specific industries, Level 2 background checks involve the verification of an individual’s professional licenses and certifications. This additional layer of scrutiny ensures that individuals who hold positions requiring specialized qualifications meet the necessary standards and comply with regulatory requirements.
By conducting these verifications, decision-makers preserve the integrity and professionalism of these industries, affirming the competence and legitimacy of individuals within their respective fields.
Additional Screening
Depending on the unique requirements and context of the background check, Level 2 screenings may encompass additional components, such as credit checks, review of educational credentials, verification of employment history, examination of motor vehicle records, and conducting thorough reference checks.
These supplementary screenings provide decision-makers with a more holistic and comprehensive profile of an individual’s background, enabling them to accurately assess suitability for specific roles or responsibilities.
What Information Does a Level 2 Background Check Reveal?
A Level 2 background check, renowned for its thoroughness, unlocks a treasure trove of information that paints a comprehensive picture of an individual’s background. This includes:
- Criminal history, including convictions, arrests, and pending cases.
- Financial status, such as outstanding debts and child support payments.
- Personal records, including marriage and divorce records.
- Education and credentials verification.
- Driving records, including traffic violations and license validity.
- Additional checks for warrants, civil court judgments, liens, and sexual misconduct records.
- Employment history, verifying past positions and dates of employment.
- Professional license verification, ensuring the validity of licenses held by the individual.
- Social media and online presence screening, examining the individual’s online activities and presence.
- Reference checks, contacting provided references to gather insights about the individual’s character and work performance.
The Significance of Level 2 Background Checks
Level 2 criminal background checks hold immense significance in various industries and positions that demand more responsibility, trust, and public safety.
Here are some key areas where these checks play a vital role in ensuring the well-being of individuals and fostering secure environments:
Employment
Industries such as healthcare, education, finance, and law enforcement, consider Level 2 checks an indispensable part of their hiring and screening processes. These checks serve as a safeguard, ensuring the safety and security of employees, clients, and the general public.
By identifying individuals with potential risks or threats, Level 2 checks mitigate the chances of compromising workplace safety, especially in positions involving high trust, sensitive information access, or interaction with vulnerable populations.
Licensing and Professional Certifications
Certain professions, including healthcare providers, teachers, law enforcement officers, and childcare providers, often require Level 2 checks as part of the licensing or certification process.
This rigorous examination ensures that individuals entrusted with public safety and well-being meet the necessary standards and do not possess a history of criminal behavior that could compromise their ability to fulfill their responsibilities.
Volunteer Screening
Organizations relying on volunteers, particularly those working with vulnerable populations, recognize the importance of Level 2 checks in ensuring the safety and well-being of those they serve.
Whether it’s a youth mentoring program, a senior care facility, or a nonprofit organization assisting disadvantaged individuals, Level 2 checks are crucial in identifying individuals with a history of offenses that could pose risks to the population they aim to support.
Personal Relationships
Level 2 checks can also benefit individuals seeking personal relationships, such as dating or forming new friendships. While respecting privacy boundaries and exercising judgment is essential, conducting a Level 2 check using trusted sources like Information.com can provide peace of mind and contribute to personal safety.
It’s essential to approach such checks responsibly, with the consent and understanding of the individual involved, ensuring transparency and open communication.
Differences Between Level 1 and Level 2 Background Checks
Level 1 background checks and Level 2 background checks serve distinct purposes and vary significantly in scope, depth, and requirements.
Let’s delve into the differences between these two types of checks.
1. Scope of Investigation
Level 1 checks have a limited scope, focusing on basic information and criminal record searches within a specific jurisdiction. In contrast, Level 2 checks have a broader range, involving a more extensive examination of an individual’s criminal history at state and federal levels.
2. Criminal Records Search
While Level 1 checks primarily serve the purpose of general employment screenings for non-sensitive positions, Level 2 checks are required for positions and industries that demand higher scrutiny, safety, and security.
3. Fingerprinting Requirement
Fingerprinting is typically not a requirement for Level 1 background checks. These checks rely on other means of identification, such as name-based searches and database inquiries. On the other hand, Level 2 checks commonly include a fingerprinting requirement to offer accurate analysis and comparison against national databases.
4. Industry and Purpose
Level 1 checks are suitable for low-risk positions that do not involve significant trust, access to sensitive information, or interaction with vulnerable populations. In contrast, Level 2 checks are commonly used in fields such as healthcare, education, finance, law enforcement, and positions involving contact with vulnerable populations, where a higher level of scrutiny and safety is paramount.
Conducting a Level 2 Background Check (Plus Legal Aspects)
Conducting a Level 2 background check requires careful adherence to legal requirements to ensure compliance, protect individuals’ rights, and maintain the integrity of the screening process.
Here’s a quick list of the essential legal requirements that apply to Level 2 background checks:
- Compliance with applicable laws: Familiarize yourself with local, state, and federal laws governing background screening procedures to ensure compliance.
- Obtaining consent: Obtain written consent from the screened individual, clearly stating the purpose, information accessed, and result usage.
- Adherence to Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA): Comply with the FCRA guidelines, ensuring accuracy, fairness, and privacy when using a third-party consumer reporting agency.
Now that we have addressed the legal aspects, let’s explore the process of conducting a Level 2 background check.
- Identify the purpose: Clearly define the purpose and requirements of the Level 2 background check based on industry, position, and legal obligations.
- Gather information: Collect essential details from the individual, including full name, date of birth, and Social Security number, to initiate the background check process.
- Engage a reliable background screening provider: Work with a reputable and accredited provider specializing in Level 2 checks, ensuring legal compliance, confidentiality, and data security.
- Determine the scope: Define the Level 2 background check components based on legal requirements, industry standards, and the specific position being screened.
- Conduct the background check: Initiate the background check process by accessing authorized databases, conducting searches, verifications, and relevant screenings.
- Review and assess the results: Carefully review, assess, and evaluate the obtained information for any potential red flags or discrepancies.
- Maintain compliance and confidentiality: Handle all information gathered during the Level 2 background check confidentially and maintain compliance with privacy laws.
By following these legal requirements and conducting Level 2 background checks diligently, anyone can make informed decisions while upholding individuals’ rights and privacy.
Can Individuals Run a Level 2 Background Check?
Individuals generally do not have direct access to run Level 2 background checks. These checks typically require the involvement of third-party companies or professional screening providers.
Level 2 background checks involve compliance with various legal requirements, such as the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) and state-specific regulations. Professional screening companies are well-versed in these laws and ensure that the screening process adheres to all legal obligations. This helps mitigate the risk of non-compliance for organizations and individuals.
Additionally, the entire process relies heavily on accessing comprehensive databases, including national criminal databases and registries. These databases are restricted and require authorized access, generally granted to professional screening companies. Third-party providers have relationships with these databases and can efficiently retrieve and analyze the necessary information.
Key Takeaways About Level 2 Criminal Background Checks
In essence,Level 2 criminal background checks are a comprehensive and vital tool in today’s world, promoting safety, informed decision-making, and the creation of secure environments. These checks delve deep into an individual’s criminal history, providing valuable insights for individuals and organizations.
By harnessing the power of Level 2 checks, individuals and organizations can make well-informed decisions, mitigate risks, and create safer environments. These checks are particularly crucial in healthcare, education, finance, and law enforcement, where a higher level of scrutiny and safety is paramount.
While individuals generally cannot run Level 2 checks themselves, partnering with reputable screening providers ensures access to comprehensive databases, legal compliance, and expert analysis. Through these trusted partnerships, individuals and organizations can navigate the complex legal landscape and protect individuals’ rights while upholding privacy and security standards.
Whether for personal reasons or professional purposes, using Level 2 background checks fosters a safety culture and enables individuals and organizations to make sound judgments based on reliable and objective information. They contribute to creating a more secure and trustworthy society.
By following proper procedures, complying with legal obligations, and conducting these checks diligently, we can all contribute to a safer community where informed decisions are made based on thorough and reliable information.
Level 2 Criminal Background Checks: FAQs
- What is a Level 2 criminal background check?
A Level 2 criminal background check is a comprehensive investigation that goes beyond basic checks, providing a more thorough examination of an individual’s criminal history, financial status, and personal records.
- How is a Level 2 criminal background check different from a Level 1 check?
Level 2 criminal background checks are more extensive than Level 1 checks, as they access state and federal databases for a broader range of information. They include additional components such as credit checks, driving records, and education verification, offering a more comprehensive assessment.
- What information does a Level 2 criminal background check reveal?
A Level 2 criminal background check may reveal an individual’s criminal history, financial status, personal records (such as marriage and divorce records), education verification, driving records, and other relevant details, depending on the scope of the check.
- Can individuals run their own Level 2 background checks?
Generally, Level 2 background checks require the involvement of a third-party company due to legal requirements, access to comprehensive databases, expertise, and ensuring impartiality and objectivity in the process.
