It comes to no surprise that with today’s security issues, people have become more cautious when it comes to meeting new people or entrusting them large responsibilities. Background checks have now become standard operating procedures for many companies to ensure that potential employers are clear of anything dark secrets. Another valuable source of information when it comes safety are court records, though not many know it.

There are a lot of ways in which you can use the information included in a court record. In most court records, the information will include the full names of everyone involved in the specific case, and a short summary of what the case is all about and the conclusion of the proceedings. Other important documents are also kept as well, such as the full transcript of the court proceedings, pleadings, petitions, and correspondence from both sides, and other evidences in written form, like official statements and necessary documents. Of course, judgments and court rulings are also included as supplementary sources of information. These information are very useful if you’re planning to hire an employee, just so you can check if he or she has criminal records. If you find out that he or she has, you can also find out what measures were taken to punish the person and whether or not a police clearance is already obtained.

Believe it or not, getting hold of court records will also be very helpful if you’re looking for information about your family, such as your genealogy, inheritance, or legal guardianship. Cases such as land and property disputes will hold many information about your relatives that can trace as far back as your great-great-great grandfather. You can even dig up some information about your partner, whether or not he or she has stayed away from any crimes and offenses.

Generally, criminal proceedings such as speeding or drunk driving are easier to look for than civil proceedings like divorces and adoption, among others. In any case, court records should not be that hard to look for because they are almost always open to the public, except in rare occasions. To make the most out of investigating into these records, you have to make sure that you have the correct general information, such as the names and addresses. Once you get the data you have wanted, you will feel safer and more resolute in making the right decision, be it in hiring a person or getting serious in a relationship with your partner.