Frequently Asked Questions

  • How long does a nationwide criminal background check take?

    Most nationwide criminal background checks are completed within 1 to 3 business days, depending on the jurisdictions searched and court response times. County-level searches may add time if records require manual retrieval. At Landmark Investigations, we prioritize fast turnaround while maintaining accuracy and compliance.
  • What's the difference between a state and county criminal search?

    A state criminal search reviews centralized state repositories, while county searches pull records directly from local courthouses where arrests and convictions are filed. County searches are often more comprehensive and current. We combine both methods to ensure thorough criminal history screening across Texas and nationwide.
  • Can a background check show pending criminal charges?

    Yes, background checks can reveal pending charges if they appear in arrest records or county court dockets. Pending charges indicate an ongoing case without a final conviction. At Landmark Investigations, we include arrest records and pending charges in our criminal background reports when legally accessible.
  • What does FCRA-compliant background screening mean for employers?

    FCRA-compliant screening means the background check follows Fair Credit Reporting Act rules, including obtaining written consent, providing pre-adverse action notices, and allowing candidates to dispute findings. Employers must use compliant reporting to avoid legal liability. Landmark Investigations delivers fully FCRA-compliant pre-employment screening for businesses.
  • How do landlords verify a tenant's eviction history?

    Eviction history is verified through civil court records where unlawful detainer or eviction cases are filed. These searches reveal past evictions, judgments, and payment defaults. At Landmark Investigations, we include eviction history reports as part of our tenant background checks to help landlords assess rental risk.
  • What information is included in employment verification?

    Employment verification confirms job title, dates of employment, and employer contact details. When authorized, it may include salary verification and reason for separation. At Landmark Investigations, we contact previous employers directly and provide documented confirmation for pre-employment screening or tenant applications.
  • Can you run a background check on someone in another state?

    Yes, background checks can be conducted nationwide regardless of where the subject or client is located. Our services cover state, county, and federal records across the United States. Landmark Investigations is based in Texas but performs background checks for clients and subjects anywhere in the country.
  • What shows up on a personal background check for dating?

    A dating app background check typically includes identity verification, criminal records, sex offender registry status, alias searches, and address history. These reports help confirm someone's identity and uncover red flags. At Landmark Investigations, we provide confidential and discreet dating background checks for personal safety.
  • How far back do criminal background checks go in Texas?

    In Texas, criminal background checks generally go back seven years for most employment purposes under FCRA guidelines, but felony convictions and serious offenses may appear indefinitely. County and state repositories vary in record retention. Landmark Investigations tailors search depth based on client needs and legal requirements.
  • What's the biggest mistake landlords make with tenant screening?

    The biggest mistake is relying only on credit checks without reviewing criminal history, eviction records, or employment verification. Incomplete screening increases rental risk and potential liability. At Landmark Investigations, we offer comprehensive tenant background checks that combine criminal, eviction, and income verification for informed decisions.
  • Do attorneys need special background checks for witnesses or jury pools?

    Yes, attorneys often require detailed background investigations including litigation history, civil judgments, asset searches, and court document retrieval to assess credibility or identify biases. These checks go beyond standard screenings. Landmark Investigations provides specialized legal background checks tailored for witness research and jury pool screening.
  • Can public records searches reveal liens or bankruptcy filings?

    Yes, public records searches uncover civil filings such as liens, judgments, bankruptcy cases, and property ownership records filed with county and federal courts. These documents provide financial and legal history. At Landmark Investigations, we conduct thorough public records searches for landlords, employers, and legal professionals.