Even after you’ve served your sentence, a criminal conviction can continue to follow you around and prevent you from rebuilding a stable life. One of the most important aspects of life that a criminal record can impact is your employability. While not every employer is going to run a background check, most will. This is because a background check can provide a wide range of information about your past that you might not want to disclose in person. Unfortunately, a private employer can deny employment or fire you for having a criminal record. Reasons an employer might choose to avoid hiring former convicts include:
- Attempting to avoid negligent recruitment charges
- Workplace safety or fear of a hostile work environment
- Security clearance requirements
What Information Is Contained In My Background Check?
A background check reveals more than just your criminal history. Other aspects of a background check include:
- History of your residence & addresses
- Federal & state tax liens
- Federal & state bankruptcies
- List of known relatives
- Property ownership
- History of marriages & divorces
Should I Disclose My Conviction to a Potential Employer?
When it comes to disclosing your conviction to an employer, you should be upfront and truthful. Honesty can help establish trust between you and a potential employer. Reliable references can also help you overcome the stigma of having a conviction on your record, especially if they come from previous employers who are familiar with your work ethic.
In some cases, criminal charges can even be expunged from your record. An experienced lawyer can help determine whether or not this option is available to you. At Andrew J. Cornick, Attorney at Law, we have 19 + years of legal experience and can help you rebuild your reputation. Being accused of, or charged with, a criminal offense is one of the most life-changing events a person can face. We strive to help our clients overcome the weight of their convictions and secure the results they deserve.
Do you think your conviction has affected your employability? Are you having difficulty getting job offers due to your criminal record? Contact our Fredericksburg criminal defense attorney, or call (540) 386-0204 to learn how we can help with your case!