Kramer comments on background check errors

Zachary Kramer, Associate Dean for Intellectual Life at the College of Law, was quoted in an article in The Arizona Republic by Josh Brodesky on Nov. 20, titled “Background checks prone to mistakes.”

This fall, Darlene T. Martinez filed suit against Universal Background Screening, a company that provides background checks, drug testing and physical exams for businesses in the employment process. In early 2011, while being screened for a new job Martinez’s personal information was confused with that of another valley woman with a criminal record. This prevented Martinez from getting the job.

“A background check is supported by data, and when the data isn’t right, it’s an incredible hassle for everyone to try to correct the data,” Kramer said. “It happens a lot when the information they have is either not fresh or incomplete.”

Kramer said common names are often confused, and although he wouldn’t comment on Martinez’s case, he said lawsuits such as hers can encourage background-check companies to do a better job.

Kramer teaches employment law, special topics in employment discrimination law and property. His research focuses on antidiscrimination law, law and sexuality and work/family issues.