Felon with deferred conviction wants job advice

Felon with deferred conviction wants job advice

Hello,

I found your web page to be informational and also motivational. I was charged with theft and it is deferred I have not completed my probation, but my question is when I complete the probation and finish paying all my fines. I am wondering if it make sense at all to go back to school to become an ADN, LVN or counselor. I am wonder if these jobs will hire me with this charge. Or would you send me some information about expungement. Would that apply for me and how should I go about it.

Thank you for your help in advance. I have applied for so many jobs. I can't count and I get turned down time and time again.

Sincerely

Melinda

Felon with deferred conviction wants job advice

Hello Melinda,

Generally speaking, when the terms of deferred sentences are met (in most cases, a fine and probation,) charges are formally dropped. If you are unsure of the terms, you should contact the prosecutor assigned to your case.

Once the terms are met, there will be no conviction simply a dropped charge. In most cases, employers are only interested in convictions. If there are provisions in your state for expungement or sealing, it won't hurt to apply for it. Many ex-offenders and felons looking for jobs need legal help. Contact your local legal aid office to find out if this is an option for you.


I hope this helps.

  Jobs for Ex-offenders and Felons: Employment Background Checks: Know Your Rights

Jobs for ex-offenders and Felons: Expungement of Criminal Records

 

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Felon with deferred conviction wants job advice

Felon wants job in Information Technology

Felon wants job in Information Technology

I am currently in the process of getting my degree in Information Technology. I am concerned that when I receive my degree, I will not be able to land a job because of my background. I was convicted of Possession With The Intent to Distribute, 8 years ago. I have spoken to a lawyer and he said that in Virginia, if you plead guilty there is no way to expunge the conviction from my record.

Now, I have stayed out of trouble since then and that is my only felony. When I see a job on-line, I notice that they say "must be able to pass a background check". What exactly does this mean. I seen on-line comments that it depends on the charge and the how long it has been. I would one day like to be able to receive a security clearance. Do you think I will ever be able to get past this blemish on my record or will I always be doom because of my past?

Thank you,

Daniel

Felon wants job in Information Technology

Hello Daniel,

Unfortunately your conviction isn't going anywhere. You have nothing to lose by applying for every job you believe you are qualified for. One suggestion I have for ex-offenders and felons looking for professional jobs is to always apply by mail using your resume and a well written letter of introduction that explains exactly what you are trying to accomplish.  Never mention that you have a criminal record until the employer does.  Hopefully using this method, your criminal record will not even come up.  If it does come up, briefly explain what the problem was and focus on your accomplishments and why you are the person for the job. 

Take a look at the video below.  It will give you some insight on this method.

Also, in 2015 President Barack Obama started what is known as the Fair Chance Initiative.   The Fair Chance Initiative encourages employers to offer qualified ex-offenders and felons equal opportunities when being considered for jobs.  You can find more information here.

Jobs for Ex-offenders and felons: sending Resumes and Cover Letters

Don't make the mistake that many ex-offenders and felons make looking for jobs. Do not assume that because you have a criminal record you will not be hired. You must go after every job you feel you are qualified for. Don't give up. Remember, even a blind man will hit something if he throws enough rocks.

I hope this helps.

Jobs for Ex-offenders and Felons: Where can Ex-offenders Find Jobs

Jobs for Ex-offenders and Felons: Ten Steps to Getting a Job with a Criminal Record

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Felon wants job in Information Technology

Felon wants to become a teacher

Hello there,

Thank you very much for this resource. I am a 26 year old woman looking to get a teaching certificate. I would like to teach elementary, Jr. High, or High School. I was given a deferred sentence in 2013 for Felony Menacing. Again, the charge was deferred and I successfully completed my probationary term. As I understand it, there was no plea of guilty and I was not charged. I was told that law enforcement and other government agencies will have access to view the record of the arrests. Does this disqualify me from working with children and becoming a teacher? I still have to get my teaching certificate and would really, really like to do so. I just need to get the appropriate information to ensure that this is possible and that I will not run into any trouble with this situation.

If you can provide me with links and resources I would greatly appreciate it.

Thank you for your time and service,

Randi

 Felon wants to become a teacher

Hello Randi,

Generally speaking, in cases like these, upon completion of your probation, the charges are formally dropped. You will have an arrest record but no conviction record. I can't see that being held against you. I don't see any reason you cannot become a teacher. To be absolutely certain, you can contact the prosecutor who was associated with your case to make sure the charges were actually dropped.

For anyone else who is considering teaching but have criminal records, don't assume you cannot get a teaching certificate.  If your conviction is not directly related to the job you are looking for you may still be able to be certified.  My suggestion is to contact the board of education where you would like to teach.  There should be someone who could direct you to the state certification board to determine you eligibility.



I hope this helps.

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Felon wants to become a teacher

Expungement could help felons get Jobs

Hello Sir:

I was convicted of felony in 2009 for possession and delivery of narcotics, I served 26 months and everything has been well for me until 2019. I have been having a hard time getting a job in my field of study, which is computer science. I am enclosing my resume so that you can take a look at all of the places I have worked, but can't seem to find work because of the intense background checks now. ONE Conviction 21 Years ago man it's hard. 

Please Advise. 

Thank you.

 Expungement could help felons get Jobs

Hello Jason,

Looking at your background, your inability to find work may be due to other factors. Some convictions are more difficult to work with than others.  Take a look at the first video below.  It will give you an idea of what I mean.  

For many ex-offenders and felons looking for jobs, expungement may help. Expungement will not erase your conviction but it may keep it off of the average background check. You can find more information here:

http://courts.michigan.gov/scao/selfhelp/intro/criminal/setaside_help.htm


I would not attempt this alone. You may be able to get low-cost or even low-cost assistance at your local legal aid office.


I hope this helps

Jobs for Felons: The Facts about Companies that Hire Ex offenders and Felons (2019)

Jobs for Ex-offenders and Felons: Employment Background Checks: Know Your Rights

Jobs for ex-offenders and Felons: Expungement of Criminal Records

 

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Expungement could help felons get Jobs

 Felon Mom having a Rough Job Search

I was looking through the newspaper trying to find something, anything  to support my family. Fifteen years ago I was convicted of a felony. I was twenty years old never been in trouble before and have never been in trouble since then. I didn't spend time in jail but I did do five years probation and was discharged. Now here I am 35 years old no job, no future and a family that is struggling because I can't help. I can’t even get hired at fast food places. I had a great job working for the State through a temporary agency but it was great. I was about to be hired and they did a background check on me. The agency knew about my record and still hired me, but after my background came back I was fired on the spot. Forget that I had been there for 2 years everyday and worked very hard for them. Companies have the chance to hire good workers but they pass us by everyday. Every one makes mistakes, but there are many like me who want to work, and support their families but can't get a break anywhere. My husband works every day and he works very hard to take care of us. I am very proud of him, but he will never understand how I feel. I have been out oft work for over a year now and I am getting depressed. There are things I want for my family and myself but getting a job is the first step. My husband works but his paycheck is not enough to pay all of our bills. We ave a small son and we feel bad because there isn't money for birthday or Christmas gifts or anything that make kids happy.  I had all of those things  I have never begged for a hand out, all I want is a little break so my family won't be so stressed. The stress alone is killing my marriage! My family does not deserve to live like this all because of something I did in my past.  My family deserves better than this.  

The world looks at us like once a criminal always a criminal and that's not always the case.  It makes drives me crazy when I see people living off the government.  You got women that keep having babies just to collect more welfare and free government housing.  I have been on the waiting list for for housing for ten years and I have heard nothing!  I see illegal immigrants coming over here that open restaurants, hotels, stores and then you got the ones that come over here and collect welfare for years. Where is the justice when people who were born here can't get anything? My family is forced to live in run down apartments in because we can not afford anything better. We are forced to deal with awful landlords that don’t fix anything but still want their rent  or throw you out.

My hopes of opening up my own business are slowly fading away.  My husband tries to encourage me not to give up but after the year we have had I know it will never happen for me and I promise if it does I won't keep them from a job because of something they did in the past. People can change and I am living proof! I don’t want to think that this is the life God has in store for me but I am starting to wonder, am I going to live the rest of my life like this?


This is Haley

Felon Mom having a Rough Job Search 

 

Hello Haley,

I'm sorry you are having so much trouble in your job search. I also see that the stress is taking it's toll on you.  Because of this, finding a job may not be the only situation you are dealing with.  My suggestion is to
contact your local Salvation Army.  The Salvation Army could put you in touch with some social services that could lend some immediate help to your family.

Next you  should contact your local United Way office.  The United Way provides support for a number of agencies.  Perhaps they would
have knowledge of advocacy groups that specialize in assisting felons or women. They could help you with some things until you can find work.

You mentioned that you worked for a temp service for two years.  Perhaps that route could help you again.  You can also try your local One-stop Career Center.  You will find a variety of free services that can help you get a job.  You can also find lists of open jobs in your area.  You may be eligible for job search related benefits such as child care and transportation passes.

You can find your local One-stop here:

http://www.serviclocator.org

There are more companies willing to give qualified people with criminal records opportunities to get hired.  Ex-offenders and felons will find that having a criminal record will not automatically disqualify them from jobs.  Click the image below get a huge list of companies that hire felons.

I hope this helps.

Jobs for Felons: Getting a Job with a Criminal Record

Jobs for Felons: How to Make a Job Search Plan

Jobs for Felons: #1 Secret of Successful Female Career Changers

Companies Hire Felons | Companies That Hire Felons | Companies That Hire Ex-offenders | Employers That Hire Ex-offenders | Employers That Hire Felons | Jobs For Felons | Jobs For Ex-offenders | Jobs That Hire Felons | Resumes for Felons | Felon Friendly Jobs | Felon Friendly Employers | Jobs for Felons | Jobs For People That Have Felonies | Jobs For People With A Criminal Record

Felon Mom having a Rough Job Search

Can felons go to college and get jobs?

Hello,

I came across your website and have gotten some helpful feedback. However, in my situation I am a 21 year old female convicted of felony possession and attempted transportation of marijuana for sale. I'm currently on supervised probation. Expungement is not an early option for at least another 6 months to a year. And even though I'm a first time offender, I think my record is now showing up and I've been denied jobs for the first time in my life. I had to drop out of college because I couldn't afford it just weeks after I caught my case back in 2014 and then convicted and served time in 2015. I was attending a top 100 four-year university majoring in chemical engineering with the pre-med option. I want to change my major to nursing and consider med school later. What are my options as far as employment for the next several months and what are your thoughts on my options for school and funding thereafter?

Can felons go to college and get jobs?

Hello,

Even though expungement may not be an option, you may be able to get a downgrade of your charge. That may make it easier to work with. Speak to an attorney in your local legal aid office to see if this is an option in your state. Even with expungement,  your conviction will always be visible to the court system, law enforcement and government agencies. The only issue may be, if the jobs you want require any certification or licensing.  As I encourage all ex-offenders and felons looking for jobs, apply for every job you feel you qualify for.

One thing I teach my students looking for professional jobs, is to apply by sending their resumes with well written cover. letters.  Often when they apply this way, the question of criminal records never comes up.  If it does, they should be prepared to talk about their convictions in a positive way.

Your local One-stop career center may help you get a job. you can find the center nearest to you at this link:

www.servicelocator.org

In reference to going to college, I have numerous students who have gone on to college careers. There are some points of consideration. Some jobs may require certification or licensing. Be sure your conviction will not forbid you from being certified or licensed in your state. Also regarding getting federal financial aid for college, I know of felons and ex-offenders who were able to get grants and loans for education and later on jobs. Speak to someone in the financial aid office of the school you wish to attend. They will help you get the necessary forms. Unfortunately not everybody convicted of a felony is eligible. Certain drug convictions require that you complete an accepted drug rehabilitation program in order to be eligible for federal financial aid. Just something to consider.

Doors are opening for ex-offenders and felons not only for jobs but access to higher education.  If you are not only looking for employment, but looking for a college education. Take a look at this article:

 Jobs for Felons: Government Help For Felons Looking for Jobs

Jobs for Felons: Government Help For Felons Looking for Jobs
I hope this helps.

Jobs for Ex-offenders and felons: Sending Resumes and Cover Letters

Jobs for Ex-offenders and Felons: Employment Background Checks: Know Your Rights

Jobs for Ex-offenders and Felons: The Truth About Background Checks

Jobs for ex-offenders and Felons: Expungement of Criminal Records

 

Can felons go to college and get jobs?

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Juvenile offender wants Job Search Advice

Juvenile offender wants Job Search Advice

 

I recently was hired at a nursing home and was railed through all the pre employment paper work everyone goes threw these days. I had a drug test, back ground check and had to submit my fingerprints. Well I got a call that something was found in my back ground that has to be looked into further. All they information I was given was that the incident occurred in 2003 making me 16 and I of course knew right away what it was. I was charged with a misdemeanor and did 1 year probation. I like many other people had it seal away because I was a juvenile. Can they not hire me because of this? This is the only thing I have ever done in my entire life. I have never been arrested nor even gotten pulled over. My adult record is clean.

Juvenile offender wants Job Search Advice

Hello,

I'm not sure where you live but most states seal juvenile records from the public. In most cases they are only visible to law enforcement, the court system and government agencies. The one instance that it would not be sealed is the case of a sexual offense. If that is not your situation, you should seek legal advice as to why your offense is visible.

Many ex-offenders and felons looking for jobs often need legal advice. I suggest your local legal aid office.

I hope this helps.

How to get your Juvenile Record Expunged

How can a juvenile record affect my child's life?

Jobs for Ex-offenders and Felons: Where can Ex-offenders Find Jobs

Jobs for Ex-offenders and Felons: Ten Steps to Getting a Job with a Criminal Record

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Juvenile offender wants Job Search Advice

Felon wants to join the military

Hey my name is Dylan. I have recently gained interest in joining the army. I’m from Illinois and I was charged with a class 1 felony in November, 2016 when I was 17 years old and was charged as an adult. I’m 18 years old now. By law I’m suppose to serve prison time, however I was granted a strict probation sentence. I’m still going through the motions of court, but upon completion of probation the felonies will be expunged. I want to enlist and get things started as soon as possible! Please help me out! Let me know what I can do! Thank You!

Dylan

 Felon wants to join the military

Hello Dylan,

The military is often an option for ex-offenders looking for jobs.  Once your probation is finished, I suggest you speak to a recruiter. Even if your charge is expunged, it will still be visible to the military. It will always be visible to the court system, law enforcement and any government agency.  The recruiter will be able to help you establish your eligibility. I don't know which branch of the military you are interested in but the Army has a record of being more lenient than the others.  I know of felons who have joined the military and turned service in careers.  You can learn a useful trade in the military and also gain military status that will give you an edge when applying for jobs after your service is completed.

If recruitment numbers are down, you will have a better chance.  The Army has been known to grant waivers to convicted felons who have finished their sentences.  Waivers are considers on a case by case basis so your particular offense will be considered.

I hope this helps.




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Jobs for Ex-offenders and Felons: Employment Background Checks: Know Your Rights

Jobs for Ex-offenders and Felons: The Truth About Background Checks

Jobs for ex-offenders and Felons: Expungement of Criminal Records

 

This Book Has Helped Thousands of Felons Get Jobs ! You can get a copy of this book for as little as $5.00 Click Here!


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Felon wants to join the military

Ex-offender may need legal help to get a job

Hello,

My name is Tim. I was reading the blogs on the web site. I have complete compassion in this matter as I am also a convicted felon. It's shameful just to say it aloud, but like the others I have accepted it and realized what I have done is wrong.  My convictions unfortunately were aimed mainly at my parents when I was younger do to an emotionally unstable home life. I have corrected my problems and own emotional bouts. I am a successful father of two beautiful little girls and engaged to the most wonderful woman on this planet. We are buying a house soon on her income....I feel less of a person not being able to provide for my family.

I was told last week by Kelly services after an interview that I had the job. It was the best news I heard since my lady said yes to that important question after we laid our baby girl down for the night. I went to work today, I loved it. I liked it so much I started to talking to the human resources person about retirement and shares in the biz. I received a phone call on the way home tonight which is what has sparked my efforts for finding an answer online. Kelly services was relaying a message that a background check had come back and they found a felony.

The conviction that was in question was a misdemeanor. I'm not even sure that will save me from what's ahead but I plan on taking immediate action in the morning. My hopes lie within the kind heart of the hr woman from the place I was employed. The conviction in '07 was not a felony, if there is any possible way to get that taken care of on a very bare income please let me know. Thank you for your time and have wonderful day.

Sincerely,

Tim

Ex-offender may need legal help to get a job

Hello Tim,

Two things come to mind. First, if the conviction was on the application, It wouldn't be a question. As I suggest to all ex-offenders and felons looking for jobs, be totally honest when completing employment applications. It would make no sense to leave convictions off when applying, get hired and than lose the job when background checks are done at a later time.

If your only situation is that your misdemeanor is listed as a felony, one option is to have the prosecutor associated with your case to correct the situation. Often the prosecutor has the power to downgrade a felony to a misdemeanor.  If there was an error, you should have no problem getting this done.  If you have no success there, I suggest contacting your local legal aid office. There you may be able to get low-cost or even no-cost assistance correcting your situation. Often ex-offenders and felons looking for employment require some legal assistance and that is a good place to start.

I hope this helps

Jobs for felons: Expungement - A Way to Erase Your Criminal Record

Jobs for felons: Expungement basics

Ex-offender may need legal help to get a job


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 Jobs for Ex-offenders and Felons: How to Get a Job

When ex-offenders and felons are released, the main priority is finding a job.  A lot a people talk about second chances, but the realty is that finding a job is going to be hard.  Hard does not mean impossible.  Hard means it's going to take a lot of hard word work and determination.  Here are some tips that will make finding a job a easier for people who are serious about getting jobs and turning their lives around.

Jobs for Ex-offenders and Felons: How to Get a Job

Jobs for Ex-offenders and felons: Criminal Records

The absolute first thing I tell my students is to get a copy of their criminal records.  Somewhere in the job search the question of having a record is going to come up, either on an application or when a background check is done.  I encourage my students to be totally honest whenever questioned about a criminal background.  To do this, you must know exactly what is on your criminal record.

The easiest way to get an accurate copy or your record is ask your parole or probation officer.  They are in position to get this for you. If you do not have a probation or parole officer, you can get one from the FBI.  The FBI will provide the most accurate criminal background check available.  You can get more information on getting this copy here:

https://www.fbi.gov/services/cjis/identity-history-summary-checks

There is an 18.00 fee for this report, but if you do not have the money an you can prove that you are indigent, you can receive this report for free

Jobs for Ex-offenders and felons: How Ex-offenders and Felons Can Find Jobs

The second suggestion I make to my students is to take a trip to the local One-stop Career Center.  This used to be called the employment office.  Here you will found a long list of services that can help you get a job.  There are computers that you can use to apply for jobs online and put together a resume.  If you do not know how to build a resume, you can get help doing this.  There are interview skill building classes and other classes that can get you ready for a job.  You will find a list of open jobs in you immediate area.  There are also counselors available that can assist you in your job search.  All of these service are free of charge.  You can find the nearest One-stop Career Center at the link below

http://servicelocator.org

Jobs for Ex-offenders and felons: Networking to find Jobs

Perhaps the most powerful method of finding a job is networking.  Networking is simply contacting people you already to find available jobs.  Simply talk to people you know and asking them if they know of any jobs that are open.  This seems too simple, but this is how most people find jobs. Start with your friends, neighbors, church group, elected officials and others you come in contact with frequently.

Jobs for Ex-offenders and felons: Get a Resume

I do not send my students out on a job search without a well written resume. A resume is a way to combine your skills, education, education and training in a neat package.  A resume can sell you even when you are not around.  If you do not have a good resume, I suggest you get help putting one together.  As I noted above, you can get free assistance with your next resume at you local One-stop Career center.

After you get a resume, keep plenty with you wherever you go.  You never know who you are going to meet.  Always be prepared.

Jobs for Ex-offenders and felons: Get Dressed to Find a Job

Anyone looking for a job, not just ex-offenders and felons, should understand the power of making a great impression.  Nothing does this better than a nice outfit, clean shoes and nice hairstyle.  All of this should add up to an appearance that looks professional.  Your look should say, "I am the person for this Job."  Felons get hired everyday.  They stand a better chance of getting the jobs they want when they look like they are worthy of the job.  Employer want to feel like they re hiring quality people.

Men should wear a dark suit or sports jacket with a light colored shirt and a color coordinated tie.  You always wear a pair of shoes that could be and should be shined.  Never ever wear boots or sneakers to an interview.If you do not have a suit definitely wear  light shirt.  Make sure your clothes are cleaned and pressed.

If you shave, make sure you are cleanly shaven.   If you wear a beard or mustache, make sure it is neat and trimmed.

The best look for women is a suit with a knee-length skirt or pants and a light colored blouse.  Be sure to to wear natural looking pantyhose.  The best shoes are neat looking pumps with heels that are not too high.    Make up should not be heavy and avoid bright colored or black nail polish.  Keep jewelry to a minimum.  One necklace, one ring, one bracelet per wrist and earrings no larger than a quarter.

Shower on the day of the interview.  Just use a fresh smelling soap.  Avoid cologne or oils.  You don't want to chance a negative reaction.    Do not eat or smoke before your interview.  Be sure to brush your teeth.  Your breath should be fresh and your teeth clean.

Do your absolute best to look like a professional on your interview.  Looking like a professional will show respect four yourself, the interviewer and the opportunity to interview.

Practice Interviewing

The best thing you can do prepare for an interview is to practice.  Practice your body language and posture.  Anticipate the questions that the interviewer might ask and come up with good answers to those questions.  Practice answering the questions but do not memorize them.  Practice them until they sound natural.  Get someone to pose as the interviewer and record your practice interviews.

Always us appropriate language when interviewing and never use slang.  Listen carefully and be sure to answer every question completely but do not talk too much.  Be prepared to talk about your criminal record but don't focus on it.  Instead, focus on what you have done to improve yourself.

Nothing takes the place of preparation.  Practice until you feel confident and you will do well.

Jobs for Felons: Ten Tricks Interviewers Use

Ex-offenders and felons who have paid their debt to society may believe that they deserve a second chance. This sound good but opportunities are not given.  They are earned. You will have to work for each and every chance you will get. With genuine hard work and sincere desire to better your life, you can make a ton of opportunities for yourself.

Jobs for Ex-offenders and felons: How to Get a Job

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Eric Mayo

Former felons deserve a second chance

The Times Herald - Published 3:42 p.m. ET Sept. 11, 2018

One of the things that is Pure Michigan is sending people to prison. Although incarceration rates have fallen the past few years, there are three times as many people in Michigan prisons now than there were four decades ago. If Michigan were a country, it would have one of the top 20 incarceration rates in the world and would likely be on a State Department watch list.

More than six of every 100 Michiganders is in prison. About twice as many are former felons, those who have been released from prison, although many are still repaying a debt to society they no long owe.

It turns out that society needs them. Michigan needs them to get up in the morning and come to work. For many, though, that isn’t possible because one of the first things many employers ask, after name and address on a job application, is whether the applicant has been convicted of a felony.

One of those who would have to answer yes is the voice of those Pure Michigan commercials. Ten years before “Home Improvement” and 18 years before the debut of the state tourism campaign, Tim Allen was paroled from federal prison where he was serving three to seven years after being arrested with almost a pound and a half of cocaine.

Allen found work after his felony convictions.

Other former felons should be given the same chance. Many won’t. Some former felons are reluctant to apply for jobs, knowing they will have to check that box. Many employers won’t look past that blemish on a potential asset’s past history. Either way, applicants don’t get interviewed, employers don’t learn about important and relevant training and experience, well qualified people won’t get jobs and businesses will struggle to fill vital positions.

The felony question isn’t a valid predictor of future performance and should be illegal. In a handful of states and a few cities across the country, it is. A bill to ban it in Michigan never got a committee hearing.

But an executive order of Gov. Rick Snyder, Michigan last week just became one of about three dozen states that doesn’t ask the question of prospective state employees.

The city of Port Huron will no longer ask its applicants if they’ve been convicted of a felony. Beyond being a good business practice, it is part of City Manager James Freed’s campaign to give the city a reputation as a place welcoming to anyone who wants to work.

City Council can’t extend the ban to include other employers in the city, as Austin, Texas, and other cities have done.

That’s because, in March, Snyder signed Senate Bill 353, which prohibits local governments from enacting ordinances that restrict use of the felony question by private employers. Irony is not a crime.

Former felons deserve a second chance

Jobs for Felons: The Facts about Companies that Hire Ex offenders and Felons (2018)

Former felons deserve a second chance

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Eric Mayo

Jobs are scarce for a felon with degree

Hi there,

I have been doing some research recently on trying to find a professional career with a criminal background. Apparently I have done everything backwards. I graduated from the University of Tennessee with honors, but soon after I got into some trouble.  Long story short, I've done my time but I can't seem to find a job.  I've tried everything, but this thing is beating me down.  There is just no forgiveness and all the time I spent earning my degree is wasted just because of one mistake.


Thank you,

Frustrated

Jobs are scarce for a felon with degree

You may be surprised how often I hear stories like yours. Unfortunately sometimes good people go through some incredibly terrible things (remember that.) Don't give up on yourself or your education. I suggest to ex-offenders and felons looking for jobs is to apply with well written cover letters introducing you and your resume. Often when apply for jobs this way, the "Have you been convicted..." question never comes up. If it does, it will be in an interview where you may offer some brief details of what led to your brushes with the law but focus on how you have overcome your past problems and what you have to offer.

As far as finding employment, make use of your local One-stop Career Center. You will find a lot of helpful services including job leads. You can find the center closest to you at http://www.servicelocator.org

I also suggest to those with college degrees to look to local community colleges. Often there are adjunct instructor positions available teaching basic subjects like English or basic math.



I hope this helps.

Jobs for Ex-offenders and Felons: Where can Ex-offenders Find Jobs

Jobs for Ex-offenders and Felons: Ten Steps to Getting a Job with a Criminal Record

Jobs for Felons: The Facts about Companies that Hire Ex offenders and Felons 

Jobs are scarce for a felon with degree

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Lady Felon has Hope for Medical Career

 Lady Felon has Hope for Medical Career

I wanted to personally thank you for your information and motivational reassurance that with hard work and good intentions, there will be results.  I am a 32 year female and have had 11 years in the medical field specifically with management and administration.

My last job was the best by far working on a military base as a Tricare representative.  The Dept. of Defense made cuts across all 50 states and my position was eliminated.  Upon my return back home to California from Las Vegas, I allowed myself a little "vacation party time".  My choice one fateful afternoon does not represent  me professionally nor personally but just a "social choice,"  rather one of the biggest lessons in my life.  I am now faced with a Felony charge for possession and with no priors whatsoever, clean image, and of course I will be in excellent standing during my probation period of 2 years....I am now faced with the realization that the next few years and advancing my career in the health field will be impaired.  However not impossible. I will also add that I do not have an addiction and am actually a very nice, sweet, and caring girl.  Nevertheless these things happen for a reason and I want to be like you one day to share my experience and assist others in this unique situation.

With the assistance of my lawyer and definite proof of good behavior, we anticipate for the charges to be lowered to a misdemeanor charge, fees/fines paid for asap, and records to be sealed in 2 years.  I am reaching out to my network of resources in both private practice and small businesses.  There are things I can do to generate income but I want to still have my foot in the health field for my work record.  If it were not for your information regarding the Work Opportunity Tax Credit and Federal Bonding Program, I would not have the reassurance I have at this moment sitting at the library typing to you.  

I am going to get my hands on your book also to have as an additional resource.  If I ever get the opportunity to meet you Sir in person then I will thank you but as for now you are a beacon of light in my tunnel.  

I hope you and your family are well Sir. 

Sincerely,

 Michelle

 Lady Felon has Hope for Medical Career

 

Hello Michelle,

Thank you for your kind words.  I tell every ex-offender I meet who is looking for a job is to put a plan together and follow through with it.  Work the plan and never give up.  

Everyone may not have the resources to hire a lawyer, but there are places to go for help.  Your local legal aid office is a good place to get low-cost or even free legal advice regarding the possible downgrading of their charges or expungement if available.  The thing about expungement is, even if it is granted, your record will always be available to law enforcement, government agencies and the court system.  

As I advise any felon looking for a medical career.  Please check with the medical board in your state to see if your conviction will keep you from being licensed or certified.  

Probation and parole officers often have information about serviced available in your area that could offer assistance to ex-offenders and felons looking for jobs.  

Having a criminal record is not the end of the world.  It may make getting hired a bit more difficult but with a plan and hard work, you can overcome a bad situation.  Felons and ex-offenders a get jobs everyday so don't give up!

Jobs for Ex-offenders and Felons: Where can Ex-offenders Find Jobs

Jobs for Ex-offenders and Felons: Ten Steps to Getting a Job with a Criminal Record

Jobs for Felons: The Facts about Companies that Hire Ex offenders and Felons (2018)

   Lady Felon has Hope for Medical Career

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Eric Mayo