If you are considering a partnership with someone in business, you are permitted to inquire about details of that person’s character and behavior.  The same applies if you are seeing a partner in marriage.  You are permitted to do so even in instances when you have not previously heard anything derogatory about that person.  Even though your inquiry might provoke the revelation of derogatory information it is nonetheless permissible, since your intention is to prevent future disputes or damage.  ~ Guard Your Tongue