Online background check websites promise instant answers for a few dollars. Anyone who has used them knows the results are often incomplete, outdated, or attached to the wrong person. When an important decision is on the line, a professional background investigation provides verified information you can rely on.

The Problem With Instant Reports

Automated reports pull data from many sources without verifying it. Common problems include:

• Records belonging to someone with a similar name
• Missing court cases from counties that are not well indexed
• Old addresses and phone numbers presented as current
• No context about what a record actually means

Making a decision based on unverified data can be costly, unfair, or even unlawful in certain settings.

What a Professional Background Investigation Includes

Depending on the purpose and the law, an investigation may include:

• Identity confirmation
• Court record research in relevant counties, including civil and criminal cases
• Bankruptcies, liens, and judgments
• Business affiliations and corporate filings
• Property ownership
• Professional license verification
• Publicly available online and social media presence
• Interviews with references or associates when appropriate

Investigators verify findings at the source when possible, such as reviewing the actual court file instead of relying on a database summary.

Common Reasons for a Background Investigation

• Vetting a potential business partner or investor
• Checking a contractor, caregiver, or nanny
• Learning more about a new romantic partner
• Supporting litigation or settlement decisions
• Evaluating a tenant or major transaction
• Confirming someone is who they claim to be

Employment Screening Rules

When background information is used for employment decisions, federal and state laws may apply, including rules about consent and notice. Employers should consult legal counsel and use compliant processes. For many Ohio jobs, fingerprint based BCI and FBI checks are also required.

Lawful and Ethical

Investigators use lawful sources only. They do not obtain bank, phone, or medical records without legal authority.

Clear Reporting

You receive a written report that explains what was found, where it came from, and what it means.

Verified Information You Can Trust

We conduct background investigations for individuals, attorneys, and businesses throughout Ohio. Visit our private investigation services page or contact us through our service inquiry form. For fingerprint background checks, visit our fingerprinting services page.