Civil Court Record Searches
A civil court search shows lawsuits, judgments and other non-criminal court cases involving a candidate. Fast Track searches county and federal civil courts, with most results in 1–3 business days.
County vs. federal civil searches
| Search | What it finds |
|---|---|
| County civil | Most lawsuits, contract disputes, small claims, evictions and money judgments, which are filed in local courts |
| Federal civil | Cases under federal law, such as civil rights and fraud claims, plus bankruptcies, which are filed only in federal court |
What a civil record can show
- Lawsuits where the candidate was the plaintiff (suing) or the defendant (being sued)
- Judgments, which are court orders to pay money
- Bankruptcies, filed in federal court
- Evictions and landlord-tenant cases
- Restraining orders, in some courts
A civil case means two parties had a dispute. Being named in a lawsuit isn’t proof of wrongdoing, so look at the outcome and how it relates to the job.
How a civil court search works
- The candidate authorizes the check online.
- We identify the right courts using the candidate’s address history.
- We search each county or federal court and review any cases that match.
- We confirm identity using details such as date of birth, so you don’t get someone else’s case.
- You get a report listing each case, the parties, the filing date and the outcome.
How far back can civil records be reported?
Under the federal Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA), for jobs paying under $75,000 a year, civil suits and judgments generally can’t be reported after 7 years, and bankruptcies after 10 years.
Using civil records fairly
Civil records are most relevant for roles that handle money, sign contracts, manage property or have fiduciary duties. For most other jobs, they may not be relevant at all. If a civil record affects your decision, follow the FCRA adverse action steps: a pre-adverse action notice with a copy of the report, a waiting period, then a final notice.
State and local rules to know
Some states and cities limit how employers can use credit or financial history, including judgments and bankruptcies, in hiring. Federal bankruptcy law also bars government employers from denying a job solely because of a bankruptcy, and limits private employers from firing someone for one. Check the rules where the job is located.
What can delay a civil search?
- Courts without online records, where a clerk must search by hand
- Common names that match several cases
- Cases with limited identifiers, which take extra steps to confirm
Who uses civil court searches?
Financial services and banking, property management, employers hiring for roles that handle money or sign contracts, and government contractors.
Often ordered with
- Criminal Background Checks for a full court-record picture
- Employment Verification for senior roles
- Professional Reference Checks for leadership hires
Frequently asked questions
What’s the difference between a civil and a criminal search?
A criminal search shows offenses prosecuted by the government. A civil search shows disputes between people or businesses, such as lawsuits and unpaid judgments.
Are bankruptcies included?
Only in a federal civil search, because bankruptcies are filed in federal court.
How long does a civil court search take?
Most results come back in 1–3 business days.
Is a civil search the same as a credit check?
No. A civil search shows court cases. A credit report shows debts and payment history, and has its own legal rules.
Can I use civil records in a hiring decision?
Yes, when they’re relevant to the role and you follow the FCRA’s adverse action steps. Some states limit the use of financial history in hiring, so check your local rules.
