After serving time for a criminal offense, one of the hardest experiences that someone can face is getting back out into the workforce. Regardless of crime committed, a criminal record holds significant weight for employers, so it is therefore important for all job seekers with a history to understand what might be found out, when a record will prevent getting a job, and what steps can be taken in order to get the job they want.
If you’re trying to overcome this hurdle and need help,
please contact or call Grozinger Law, P.A. 407-915-0715
What can an employer find out?
It’s commonly understood that many private employers conduct background checks before offering any positions to potential employees. During this process, the employer will see whether there are past criminal convictions, or plea bargains that resulted in a criminal record. What may change is the length of time that an employer will look back upon, therefore if a conviction happened well before the time, there is a good chance that they will not see it. Should information be erased from a criminal record, no employer is entitled to uncover that information; this may be through being found not guilty, if charges were dismissed, if the individual was a minor at the time of the crime, or if the record was expunged.
Criminal records do not exclude criminals from all employment
Depending on the position being sought and the location of the position, a convicted criminal may be in the clear. While this is different from private employers, there are requirements for public agencies to consider the time since the conviction, the type of crime, whether there was rehabilitation, and what the relationship is between the conviction and the position being applied for.
However, what should be known is that, regardless of criminal offense, some positions will be unavailable, most notably jobs that require the operation or sale of firearms, work in childcare, or work at an airport.
How to improve your chances at getting a job?
While it’s well known that getting a job with a record is difficult, it’s far from impossible. The following steps can really give you an advantage:
- Be honest on your job application
- Give details about the circumstances of your crime and rehab efforts
- Provide great personal or professional references from those without records
Believe it or not, what employers value more than your history is your honesty. So while many businesses may refuse you because of your record, some may view your truthfulness as your attempt to continue to improve yourself. Similarly, by being very open about your crime, employers may see that as your willingness to continue on a good path. Lastly, with the right people backing you, you may be able to overcome any charge.
If you’re in need of help, or need advice on how best to handle your past history, don’t hesitate to call us at Grozinger Law, P.A.. We understand what you’re going through, and want to make your life as easy as possible.
