Is it Difficult for Convicted Felons to Obtain a Job?

Finding a job is important for most individuals to pay their bills and provide themselves and their families with food and a safe place to live. Unfortunately for convicted felons, securing a job can be a difficult process. The difficulties they face can arise from various factors. Having a criminal record can impact not only a job search but also a person’s ability to obtain housing, their social standing, personal relationships, and more. During any criminal case, it is crucial that you obtain skilled representation and legal advice. Work with an Upper Peninsula criminal defense lawyer during your case.

Why is it Difficult for Convicted Felons to Get a Job?

One of the main reasons that convicted felons can face difficulties getting a job involves legal barriers. Certain crimes and convictions can automatically disqualify an individual from specific jobs and fields. For example, positions that involve working with children, financial institutions, and law enforcement may require a clean record. These rules can limit the job opportunities convicted felons are eligible to apply for.

Employers may also be hesitant to offer a job to someone with a criminal record. Although it may not be fair for an employer to judge, their reluctance can be a significant barrier. Having a felony conviction can be a red flag for employers due to a perceived risk or concern about the applicant’s moral character or reliability.

What Laws Protect the Rights of Convicted Felons During a Job Search?

In recent years there have been active efforts among both businesses and government policy makers to address the discrimination and other issues convicted felons face in seeking employment. One of the initiatives designed to protect their rights is Ban the Box laws.

Michigan state law passed a Ban the Box law in 2018, removing obstacles to employment for individuals with a criminal record by restricting employers from inquiring about an applicant’s criminal history. While employers have the right to access a candidate’s criminal record, the law dictates when they can see the information.

Under the Ban the Box law, employers cannot inquire about an applicant’s criminal history during the initial employment application process. This means that the job application cannot contain questions about arrests or convictions and the employer cannot verbally ask about the same information. They can only inquire about their criminal record after completing at least one interview or giving the applicant a conditional job offer.

While employers can still run a background check or ask about criminal history after the first interview or after offering them the job, Ban the Box allows employers to look at candidates objectively before determining whether or not their criminal history impacts their ability to perform the functions of the job.

If you are facing criminal charges it is important to consider the impact and limitations that a criminal record can have on your life even after you have served your time. Work with a skillful attorney during your case to create and implement effective defensive strategies.