What Felonies Disqualify You From Getting A Job?

Getting a nice job with a criminal record can be a rigid quest. Many employers conduct a tuff check on job applicants, and a felony on one’s record can disqualify them from certain types of positions. While the exact qualifications vary depending on the employer and the nature of the job, certain types of felonies are more likely to disqualify someone from employment opportunities. In this article, we will discuss the common felonies that disqualify you from getting a job and how to overcome this obstacle and find employment.

The Impact Of Felony On Employment

When you’re a convicted fellow, it can feel like your future is bleak. One of the most significant impacts is on employment opportunities. Felony conviction records are available to the public and can be found during background checks. This often results in employers being hesitant to hire individuals with felony records. Let’s take a closer look at what a felony is and how it can affect your job search.

Example Of Felonies That Affects Job Applicants

Examples are grave crimes differing from a misdemeanor such as 

• Murder
• rape

• assault with a deadly weapon, 
• and grand theft. These crimes usually carry a maximum penalty of one year in jail.

Felonies That Disqualify You From Getting A Job

convictions can significantly impact your ability to find employment. Many employers conduct background checks on applicants, which will reveal any criminal convictions. If an employer discovers that you have a felony conviction, they may be hesitant to hire you, particularly if the offense is related to the job’s responsibilities. For example, if you have a conviction for embezzlement, a company is unlikely to hire you for a financial management position.

The general distrust of people with felony convictions is rooted in the idea that they are more likely to engage in criminal behavior.

Crimes That Disqualifies

Felonies On Violence Or Threats To Public Safety

Felony convictions that involve violence, such as murder or assault, can have a significant impact on your employment opportunities. Employers may be hesitant to hire individuals who have a history of violent behavior.

Examples Of Felonies That Involve Violence

Some examples of felonies that involve violence include murder, assault, battery, and domestic violence.

• Assault and battery

Assault and battery involve the intentional use of force against another person. A conviction for assault or battery can make finding employment challenging, especially in roles that require handling conflicts or interacting with the public.

• Murder

Convictions for murder or manslaughter are serious felonies that can disqualify you from many job opportunities. Employers may be reluctant to hire individuals with a history of violence, regardless of how long ago the conviction occurred.

• Kidnapping

Kidnapping involves the unlawful confinement of another person. Convictions for kidnapping can severely limit your job opportunities, particularly in roles that involve working with children or vulnerable populations.

Impact On Employment Opportunities For Those With Violent Felonies

Many employers, especially those in industries that require security clearances, may not hire individuals with violent felony convictions. Additionally, certain regulations prohibit individuals with violent felony convictions from working in certain industries, such as healthcare or education. Some employers may be willing to hire individuals with violent felony convictions if enough time has passed and the individual has demonstrated rehabilitation and remorse.

Felonies Involving Fraud, Embezzlement, Or Theft

Felonies involving fraud, embezzlement, or theft can have a severe impact on employment opportunities. Employers may be hesitant to hire individuals who have been convicted of crimes that involve dishonest behavior.

Types of Fraud, Embezzlement, and Theft Felonies

Examples of fraud, embezzlement, and theft felonies include identity theft, embezzlement of funds, and grand theft.

• Theft

Felony theft involves taking someone else’s property with the intent to permanently deprive them of it. Convictions for theft or larceny can be particularly problematic, as many employers require trustworthiness in their employees.

• Embezzlement

Embezzlement involves the theft of funds or property by someone who is in a position of trust. Prosecutors may charge embezzlement as either a felony or a misdemeanor, depending on the circumstances.

• Identity Theft

Identity theft involves using someone else’s personal information, such as a social security number, to commit fraud. Identity theft convictions can make it challenging to find employment in fields that require handling sensitive information, such as finance or healthcare.

How These Felonies Disqualify You From Certain Jobs

Employers in industries such as finance, accounting, and government often require employees to have a clean criminal record. Individuals with fraud, embezzlement, or theft felony convictions may find it difficult to obtain employment in these industries. Additionally, any jobs that require handling money or sensitive information may be off-limits for these individuals.

Felonies Related To Drug And Substance Abuse

Drug-related felonies can have a significant impact on employment opportunities. Employers may be hesitant to hire individuals who have a history of drug-related felonies.

Examples Of Drug-Related Felonies

Examples of drug-related felonies include drug trafficking, drug possession with intent to distribute, and manufacture of drugs.

• Possession Of Drugs

Possession of illegal drugs, such as cocaine, heroin, or marijuana, is a felony in most states. If you have been convicted of drug possession, finding a job requiring a background check can be difficult.

• Drug Trafficking

Drug trafficking is another felony that can prevent you from getting a job. Drug trafficking involves the sale, transport, or distribution of illegal drugs. If you have been convicted of drug trafficking, it can be harder to find employment opportunities.

• DUI

Driving under the influence (DUI) of drugs or alcohol is another felony that can affect your employment prospects. Employers may be hesitant to hire someone with a DUI conviction, especially if the job involves driving or operating heavy machinery.

How These Felonies Affect Employment Opportunities

Many employers in industries such as healthcare, education, and law enforcement require background checks and drug screenings. Individuals with drug-related felony convictions may be disqualified from these industries. Additionally, any jobs that require driving, operating heavy machinery, or handling hazardous materials may be off-limits for these individuals. Offenses and Their Impact on Employment Opportunities

Felonies Involving National Security And Government Clearance

If you have a felony conviction involving national security, it can be challenging to find employment in government jobs. The government’s security clearance process is rigorous and comprehensive, and anyone with a felony conviction may find themselves disqualified from obtaining government clearance.

Which Felonies Affect Security Clearance?

Felony convictions involving national security and classified information can disqualify you from obtaining a security clearance. Some of these crimes include espionage, sabotage, treason, terrorism, and unauthorized disclosure of classified information.

How These Felonies Affect Employment In Government Jobs

If you’re seeking employment in government jobs that require a security clearance, having a felony conviction can be a significant barrier. While not all government jobs require a security clearance, those that do will be difficult to obtain. In some cases, felony convictions may also disqualify you from obtaining specific licenses or certifications needed for a job.

White-Collar Crimes And Employment Disqualifications

White-collar crimes, which often involve financial fraud or deception, can also disqualify you from getting a job. These felonies include:

• Fraud

Fraud can take many forms, from identity theft to Ponzi schemes. If you have been convicted of fraud, it can be hard to find a job in any industry that involves finances or sensitive information.

• Bribery

Bribery is another white-collar crime that can affect your job prospects. If you have been convicted of bribery, it can be tough to find work in any industry that involves working closely with clients or customers.

• Money Laundering

Money laundering involves hiding or disguising the proceeds of illegal activity, such as drug trafficking or fraud. If you have been convicted of money laundering, it can be tough to find a job in any industry that deals with finances or accounting.

How Employers Use Criminal Background Checks

 

Many employers use criminal background checks in their hiring process. However, the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) regulates how employers can use criminal background checks. Employers must disclose to job applicants that they will be conducting a background check and obtain written consent. They must also notify job applicants if they plan to take adverse action based on the results of the background check.

Background Checks On Felons

Legal Rights And Protections For Job Applicants With Felonies

Under the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), job applicants with criminal records are protected from employment discrimination. The EEOC has issued guidance for employers on the use of criminal background checks in the hiring process to ensure that they are not used to discriminate against job applicants with a criminal record. Additionally, some states have passed laws that prohibit employers from asking about criminal history on job applications, which can help level the playing field for job applicants with felony convictions. It is important to understand the impact that a felony conviction can have on a person’s job prospects. While some industries and employers may be more forgiving of past mistakes, certain types of felonies can significantly limit employment opportunities. However, felons can find gainful employment. With the right strategies, persistence, and legal support, job applicants with felonies on their records can still find success in the workforce.

If you have a felony conviction on your record, it doesn’t necessarily mean you can never find a job. There are several programs and resources available to help felons find employment opportunities, including rehabilitation, nonprofit programs, and expungement. Read here on how to expunge your record.

Employers Who Hire Felons

Some employers are willing to hire felons, particularly in industries with high demand for workers. These employers may be more willing to overlook a felony conviction if you have the skills and experience they need. In conclusion, having a felony conviction can make it difficult to find work, but it does not mean that you are unemployable. It is important to be aware of your rights and understand what felonies disqualify you from getting a job. With the right approach, you can overcome this obstacle and find employment. Whether it’s through rehabilitation programs or seeking out employers who are willing to hire felons, there are options available to help you move forward and achieve your career goals.