County criminal records are the building block of a thorough background investigation as they are the most accurate and up-to-date records on file. A county criminal record search reveals whether an applicant has criminal records within a particular county. County criminal records include both misdemeanor and felony convictions, as well as pending charges. Pending charges are important factors in the employment screening process, as the manner in which these charges are resolved will directly affect a business. County criminal records do not include federal crimes.