In order for employers to keep their risk of litigation low, it is important to keep up-to-date with current laws and data, especially as it relates to criminal background checks. According to VeriFirst President Ryan Howard, employers want to hire quickly, but rushing the process without performing necessary background checks can result in workplace violence, negligent hiring claims or FCRA class action lawsuits. HR departments should regularly review their hiring practices to ensure their screening process is compliant with current policies, before determining if an applicant’s criminal background would negatively impact the duties of the position.
