Understanding Jurisdictions
Criminal records are maintained at three levels: county (where most crimes are prosecuted), state (aggregated from county courts), and federal (for federal offenses). No single search covers all three — comprehensive screening requires searching the appropriate combination.
Understanding what each level covers helps you make cost-effective screening decisions based on your specific needs.
County-Level Searches
County searches access records directly from the courthouse where cases were filed. They provide the most detailed information including case numbers, charges, dispositions, and sentences. However, you need to know which county to search.
For subjects who have lived in multiple areas, county-by-county searching can be expensive. This is where state and federal searches add value.
When to Search All Three
For high-stakes decisions — employment in sensitive positions, tenant screening for high-value properties, or litigation due diligence — we recommend searching all three levels for comprehensive coverage.
Start with a federal search and the state(s) where the subject has resided, then add county-level searches in jurisdictions where state records indicate activity or where you need the most detail.
| Feature | County Search | State Search |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage | Single county | Entire state |
| Detail Level | Most detailed | Summary records |
| Cost | Per county searched | Single fee per state |
| Speed | 1-3 days | 1-5 days |
| Best For | Known jurisdiction | Broad screening |