required to submit a detailed history statement that will be the basis for the background investigation.3 Other documents that are most often required are: a birth certificate, diploma, drivers license, any military discharge papers, and any marriage certificates/ divorce decrees. The department should also obtain fingerprints and photographs, an authority for release of information, and also an authority for release of military information.The actual background check will usually include the following ( a general outline of steps involved):I. Opening- includes brief description of applicant, picture, age, date of birth, and place of birth.II. Residences- starting with present addresses and working backwards.III. Educational Background- College, High School, and Grammar School.IV. Financial History- including Credit Bureaus, banks, and charge accounts.V. Military Service- including contacts with former members of units.VI. Criminal and Traffic Record- including any incidents in either category.VII. Past Employment- including talks with employers, supervisors, and fellow employees.VIII. Family Relations - interviews with various family membersIX. ReferencesX. Personal Relations- friends, past dates, any evidence of alcohol/drug abuse, etc.XI. Medical History- interview with family physicianXII. Summary- including any uninvestigated leads, summary of personality, and if acceptedthe last paragraph will be a recommendation of the applicant.In my opinion, the background check is a very thorough but necessary procedure. I think that the background check could not be more thorough than it already is, if it is followed correctly. It was pointed out in one reference that sometimes a criminal record check should go beyond simply requesting that both criminal and juvenile checks be made.4 The investigation should include whether any complaints were ever filed against or by the candidate. This can reveal such items as serious marital dispu...
