The Cook Illinois Hand Check Request Form is a document used by individuals or organizations to request a hand check for potential criminal records or background checks in the state of Illinois. This form is specifically designed for Cook County, which is the largest county in Illinois and includes the city of Chicago. The purpose of the Cook Illinois Hand Check Request Form is to allow applicants to obtain comprehensive information about an individual's criminal history within Cook County. This can be useful for employers, landlords, or other entities that require background checks before making decisions such as employment, housing, or licensing. By submitting the Cook Illinois Hand Check Request Form, applicants can request a manual search of records maintained by the Cook County Circuit Court Clerk's Office. This search provides access to a broad range of criminal records within the county, including felony and misdemeanor cases. It's important to note that the hand check request form is different from other forms of background checks, such as fingerprint-based checks or national criminal databases. While the hand check relies on Cook County-specific records, these other methods may provide more comprehensive information that extends beyond the county borders. Different types of Cook Illinois Hand Check Request Forms may include variations for different purposes, such as: 1. Employment Hand Check Request Form: This form is typically used by employers who want to conduct a background check on prospective employees before making a hiring decision. It helps employers ensure the safety and reliability of their workforce. 2. Housing Hand Check Request Form: Landlords or property management companies often use this form to screen potential tenants. By requesting a hand check, they can determine if an applicant has a history of criminal activity that may pose a risk to other tenants or the property itself. 3. Licensing Hand Check Request Form: Professionals who require specific licenses or permits, such as healthcare providers or contractors, may need to submit this form to ensure they meet the necessary background check requirements. It helps regulatory bodies assess the suitability and trustworthiness of applicants. In summary, the Cook Illinois Hand Check Request Form is a vital tool for obtaining comprehensive criminal history information within Cook County, Illinois. It allows individuals and organizations to request manual searches of records to make informed decisions regarding employment, housing, or licensure. Different types of hand check request forms may exist catering to specific purposes such as employment, housing, or licensing.