Sometimes, the consequences of mistakes prevail years after the incident. If you were charged with a violent crime, you may be concerned about its impact on your future employment and your family’s well-being. Rebuilding your life can be challenging, but staying informed can help you plan your future.
The impact of a criminal record
Employers can stigmatize individuals with past criminal charges and arrests. Even if you make a good impression in the interview, an employer could decide to employ someone else after learning about your record. This is legal, but if they treat you differently from other people with past criminal charges because of your race, national origin, or other characteristics, you could be facing discrimination.
The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission establishes that employers can decide not to hire someone based on their criminal record if they consider it a risk or not a good fit for the job’s responsibilities. If they ask about your past, it is best to avoid lying. Instead, use the opportunity to explain your efforts to get back on your feet and prevent any other charges.
An employer may consider a list of factors when deciding whether your criminal record is relevant to the job, as follows:
- The severity and nature of the offense: Employers could assess the consequences, the legal elements, and the type of crime committed.
- Time elapsed since the offense or sentence completion: This helps them evaluate the risk of potential illegal actions while employed. Each company has different policies for candidates with a criminal record.
- The nature of the job you are interviewing for: Employers could examine your duties, the level of supervision required and other relevant factors to determine your suitability for the role.
After carefully considering these factors, employers can decide if your criminal record is relevant to the job you would be doing. If clear, you may be offered the position, allowing you to start building a new life for yourself and your family. While a violent crime charge can affect your employment opportunities, it is still possible to move forward.