BACKGROUND INVESTIGATIONS Conducted by Melendez & Associates

Protecting Your Business from Within

Studies show that fraud and related business abuses cost U.S. organizations billions of dollars annually. While external threats often capture headlines, some of the greatest risks come from within. Internal theft and employee misconduct continue to be among the most serious challenges facing today’s businesses.

At Melendez & Associates Investigations, we specialize in uncovering fraud and other illicit activities that may be affecting your organization. With deep experience in both legal and corporate investigations, we offer a full range of services to help you detect, prevent, and respond to internal and external threats.

Criminal and Civil Court Background Checks:   

We begin by examining county courthouse records in the states where the subject has lived over the past 7–10 years. Our searches include criminal history checks under all known names, including aliases and maiden names. We also investigate any civil litigation history—whether the subject has been a plaintiff or a defendant—providing insight into their legal background.

Credit Check (if applicable): If the applicant will have access to money, financial,  or confidential records, we will need the subject's consent to check  their credit history to comply with the Fair Credit Reporting Act. This step helps assess financial responsibility and integrity. 

Education and Employment Verification:   

We contact educational institutions directly to confirm degrees and certifications. We also verify past employment and performance by reaching out to previous employers or listed references. This process helps identify discrepancies and offers valuable context about the subject’s background and professional integrity.

Database Research:   

We leverage a wide range of public records and proprietary databases to gather supplemental information. This includes property ownership, professional licenses, court records, and other relevant data. All findings are carefully cross-referenced for accuracy.

Interviews and Fieldwork:   

For more comprehensive investigations, we may conduct interviews with individuals familiar with the subject. This can involve field visits, phone calls, or in-person meetings with associates, neighbors, or professional contacts who may offer relevant insight.

At Melendez & Associates, our goal is to provide clients with accurate, timely, and concise information to support informed decisions—whether it relates to hiring, partnership considerations, or legal matters.

Every investigation is unique. We adapt our approach based on the case’s specific needs and circumstances.

We’re always available to answer your questions, so please contact us at 425-829-6380, if you need more information on an investigation.