In personal and professional life, knowing the background of who you are dealing with can not be over emphasized. It ensures not only the safety and security of the parties involved, but peace of mind when it comes to reducing your risk.  The costs of dating the wrong person affect morale, self-esteem, reputation, health, etc.  The costs of possible litigation, violence, fraud and theft considerably outweigh any costs of background screening.  Get the facts and know who you are dealing with before becoming involved.