Should managers do reference checks?

Reference checks are a key part of the hiring process. But who’s the right person to conduct them?
On one hand, there are some tricky legal waters to tread, so some experts say it’s best left to HR.
But on the other hand, some say references give more information when they’re talking to a peer (another manager) than to someone in HR. Also, they say, HR can train managers on how to avoid legal problems.
Who checks the references at your company? Do you think managers or HR should be in charge?
Let us know by leaving us a comment.