Background Checks in Florida

Name: Emerging Investigations
Address: 8919 Paul Buchman Highway, Plant City, Florida, 33565
Telephone: 813.291.3228

Get accurate, fast, and compliant Florida background checks.

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WHY EMERGING

Why Choose Emerging Investigations?

Background checks in Florida play a crucial role in safeguarding businesses, organizations, and individuals alike. For employers, these checks are essential tools for making informed hiring decisions, ensuring workplace safety, and maintaining regulatory compliance. Florida law mandates background screening for certain industries, such as healthcare, education, and childcare, to protect vulnerable populations. Individuals also benefit from understanding the background check process in Florida. Whether you're applying for a job, seeking housing, or volunteering, Emerging Investigations knows what information may be disclosed can help you prepare and address any potential concerns proactively. Florida's background check system is comprehensive, typically including criminal records, employment history, education verification, and sometimes credit history, depending on the nature of the inquiry. Understanding the nuances of Florida's background check processes is vital for both employers and individuals to navigate the job market, ensure compliance, and make informed decisions in various aspects of personal and professional life.

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Criminal Background Checks

KNOWING YOUR OPTIONS

Types of Florida Background Checks

In the Sunshine State, background checks are categorized into two main types: Level 1 and Level 2. Level 1 checks are name-based and search Florida records only, while Level 2 checks are more thorough, involving fingerprinting and searches of both state and national databases. This tiered system allows for flexibility based on the specific requirements of different positions and industries.

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WHAT TO EXPECT

Our Background Check Process

01. Free Consultation

02. Custom Strategy Plan

03. Data Requests & Collection

04. Real-Time Monitoring & Reporting

05. Comprehensive Data Analysis

06. Detailed Final Report

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Background Checks

ANY QUESTIONS?

Frequently Asked Questions

In Florida, employers must follow the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) for background checks, including obtaining written consent and adhering to adverse action procedures. While Florida adds few state-specific regulations, certain industries require Level 1 (name-based) or Level 2 (fingerprint-based) background checks for work with vulnerable populations. Although there’s no state limit on lookback periods, the FCRA generally restricts reporting adverse information older than seven years, excluding criminal convictions. Employers should conduct individualized assessments rather than blanket bans for applicants with criminal records, as some jurisdictions enforce “ban the box” laws limiting when criminal history inquiries are allowed. Consistent policy application helps avoid discrimination claims, and thorough checks may offer protection against negligent hiring claims. Legal advice is recommended for developing compliant policies.

Florida offers two main types of background checks:

Level 1 Background Checks: These are name-based searches of Florida records and the national sex offender registry. They're typically used for positions that don't involve vulnerable populations.
Level 2 Background Checks: These are more comprehensive, fingerprint-based checks that search both Florida and national criminal databases. Level 2 checks are required for roles involving vulnerable populations, such as children, the elderly, or disabled individuals.

Both types of background checks in Florida can include criminal history, employment verification, and education confirmation, depending on the specific requirements of the position.

The duration of background checks in Florida can vary:

Level 1 checks typically take 24-72 hours to complete.
Level 2 checks usually take 3-5 business days, but can sometimes take up to 10 days.

However, turnaround times for background checks in Florida may be longer if there are issues with fingerprint quality or if additional research is needed. Some providers offer expedited services for urgent needs, potentially reducing wait times to as little as a few hours for certain types of checks.

While Florida follows federal laws like the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), it has some unique aspects:

Florida Statutes Chapter 435 outlines specific screening requirements for certain industries.
The state offers some legal protection to employers who conduct background checks, potentially shielding them from negligent hiring claims.
Some Florida cities have "ban the box" ordinances, restricting when employers can ask about criminal history.
Florida doesn't have a state law limiting how far back background checks can go, unlike some other states.

Always consult with a legal professional to ensure full compliance with the latest laws regarding background checks in Florida.

In Florida, Level 2 background checks are mandatory for:

Healthcare workers in direct contact with patients
Childcare workers and school employees
Employees of assisted living facilities and nursing homes
Foster parents and adoptive parents
Security guards and other professionals in positions of trust

Additionally, many government positions and roles involving financial responsibility often require Level 2 background checks in Florida. The specific requirements can vary by industry and position, so it's important to check the latest regulations or consult with the relevant licensing board for your field.

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