Inside Scoop: What's in a Police Check?
When it comes to security and safety, whether in the context of employment, volunteering, or other areas where trust and integrity are paramount, a police check serves as a vital tool. A police check, also known as a criminal background check, a criminal record check, or a police clearance, is an official document that provides a summary of an individual's criminal history. But what exactly comprises a police check? Let's delve into the main components that you can typically expect to find in such a background screening document.
Criminal History
The most critical aspect of a police check is the criminal history section. Here, details of an individual’s past convictions are laid out. This includes both major and minor offenses, regardless of where they were committed, as long as they are on record within the jurisdiction of the police check. It is important to note that not all convictions may appear. Some jurisdictions have legislation in place that allows for not disclosing convictions after a certain period — this is often referred to as a 'spent' conviction.
Convictions
More specifically, a police checklists an individual's convictions, which are proven instances of the individual having committed a crime. These can range from minor convictions, like a traffic offense, to more significant ones, like assault or theft. The details provided will typically include the date of the conviction, the nature of the offense, and any penalties that were given, such as fines, community service, probation, or imprisonment.
Cautions
In addition to convictions, police checks often list cautions. These are formal warnings given by the police or judicial authority to someone who has committed a minor offense. Cautions serve as a record that a person has come into contact with law enforcement, but they don't always equate to guilt. They are kept on record and may influence future decisions by authorities if there are repeated offenses.
Pending Charges
Another significant aspect of a police check is the documentation of pending charges. These are charges for offenses that an individual has been accused of but for which they have not yet been tried in court. Pending charges can affect a person's eligibility for certain jobs or positions, particularly if the charges are pertinent to the role's requisite level of responsibility and trust.
Other Information
Depending on the jurisdiction and the type of police check performed, a report may also include other relevant safety information such as:
- Court appearances and legal matters awaiting trial
- Traffic offenses, including DUIs and serious driving convictions
- Restraining orders or other civil court rulings that involve police enforcement
- Indictments and federal offenses, in comprehensive checks that include federal law enforcement data
What's Not Included?
It's also worth noting what is not included in a police check. General personal information unrelated to criminal activity, such as credit scores, civil lawsuits, and personal references, is not part of a police check. However, employers or organizations may seek this information separately through credit checks or background screenings that include civil legal history.
Conclusion
A police check is a snapshot of an individual's interactions with the criminal justice system, revealing past behaviors that could be considered pertinent to their trustworthiness and reliability. Whether for employment, volunteering, or compliance with regulations, understanding what is contained in a police check helps organizations make informed decisions for a safer environment. As an individual, knowing what information can be disclosed about you in such a clearance provides clarity and the opportunity to rectify or explain any issues that may arise from a police check.