We stll have WCCA here in Wisconsin. It displays all public cases, not arrests.

Federal (and state) law does require the applicant's permission before checking one's credit report. There are a number of good firms out there that will supply ones' credit report for a nominal fee.

I consider a person's credit, criminal background (and civil matters, really part of credit), and employment history prior to hiring. I also obtain from them a written release authorizing my investigation of these matters.

Finally, federal (and state) law prohibits considering an arrest record for hiring criteria. It is also generally a violation of law to disriminate based on a criminal conviction unless that conviction substantially relates to the position applied (or considered) for. Be careful! It is not that hard to follow the rules, but it is easy to violate them if you are careless or disregard them.