Knowing your rights is crucial in today’s world. It is even more critical for people who have a felony charge against them.

The rules for citizens with felony charges are different in several aspects. Hence, it is best to have extensive research on the matter and practice your democratic rights.

When applying for a job, several businesses ask about any felony convictions in the past. It is an almost mandatory question that results in the unofficial disqualification of many applicants.

Felony is a crime that results in one or more years in prison. Employers use background checks for every employee, and felony charges can lower the chances of employment.

Moreover, for some professions, a felony charge can result in complete exclusion.

Different Laws that Ex-felons should Know 

As companies hiring ex felons do have a chance in rights, they should research the topic and get appropriate help to navigate the new life.

It includes knowing all the laws about employment. It is common to face discrimination while applying for a job. There is always some more willing, qualified, appropriate history waiting for the same position.

The Federal Laws for Employment of Felons

In the US, we have Equal Employment Opportunity Commission or EEOC. The commission is responsible for enforcing federal laws against discrimination in employment.

According to Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, employers cannot routinely deny jobs to individuals with criminal records. The only exception is when the nature of the felony is related to the job.

For instance, some with a felony related to child abuse cannot get a job as a kindergarten teacher.

The close relation between the type of felony and the job automatically disqualifies the applicant from the assignment. But, if the crime isn’t related to the job opportunity, the ex-felon should get a fair chance.

The State Laws for Employment of Felons

State laws aren’t as straightforward. They change depending on where you live. 

The employer has the right to information about criminal records before making an employment decision. It comes under the Fair Credit Reporting Act. But, the information they can obtain will vary depending on the state.

In some states, like California, the applicant only has to report arrests if they resulted in a conviction. 

In other states, like Massachusetts, the employer cannot deny employment to convicted felons unless it puts the general public at risk.

State laws are more diverse. Hence, it is best to look for information related to your state before coming to any conclusions.

Time after Conviction

Employers do consider the time of the conviction. In some states, ex-felons do not need to mention any convictions that took place a certain number of years ago. 

The number of years will vary for each state. In some states, ex-convicts have to divulge the information, despite the time passed.

Also, employers may not consider convictions that happened a year ago with the same weight as something more recent.

Hence, if you are someone whose mistake is long in the past, you have a better chance of regaining your life.

Prohibited Professions for Ex-felons

Certain professions are off-limits for ex-felons on federal and/or state levels.

Some of the most commonly prohibited professions include insurance, banking, and health care.

Certain professions that require licensing may be off-limits as well. It includes becoming a lawyer, teacher, and psychologist. The crime does influence your chances of getting the licensing.

But, the process is grueling, and there is a good chance that you might get rejected from any license that you are otherwise eligible for.

Expunging your Records

If you have your records expunged or pardoned, you do not need to mention any details on your application for a job. It is an effective method of ensuring that you still have a fair chance of getting a job.

Winding Up

Knowing the laws can protect you from providing any information you may not need while searching for employment.

Moreover, it is the first step for people looking for a second chance while searching for a job.

Learning the relevant laws will make you aware of all your rights. With the correct information, you will have better chances of getting the desired results for every endeavor.

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