That depends greatly on the laws from area to area. Here in Louisiana, the only people that get get background checks done (which are done here via the local Sheriff's office for about $35) are law enforcement or licensed PI's. There are companies that do BGC's for other companies, but I believe the information in considered private and not openly distributed.
Best bet would be to find someone who knows someone (police friend, etc) who can get it done, or hire a PI which will cost you a bit.
I must comment on how unusual your request is though. Is her cooking really that bad?
