What Are the Consequences of a Felony Conviction on Future Employment?

A felony conviction can be a life-altering event, with repercussions that extend far beyond the legal consequences. One of the most significant areas of impact is employment. Whether you are convicted of a felony or simply charged, your future job prospects can be influenced dramatically. Employers often view criminal history as a sign of unreliability or risk, which can make it difficult to find work, keep jobs, or advance in your career.

Understanding Felony Convictions

Felonies are serious crimes, often involving violence, substantial financial harm, or other offenses considered to be severe by law. Convictions range from theft and drug-related offenses to violent crimes like assault and murder. Because felonies are more severe than misdemeanors, the consequences for those convicted are much more significant.

Felony Stigma

Felony convictions typically result in long-term prison sentences, hefty fines, or both. The stigma associated with these offenses can follow someone for a lifetime, especially in terms of employment opportunities. Many states have different laws governing the implications of felony convictions, but generally, the long-term effects on employment remain similarly harsh across the board.

Challenges in Finding Employment

Once an individual has been convicted of a felony, they may find it exceedingly difficult to reenter the workforce. Many employers conduct background checks as part of the hiring process, which means that your criminal record is likely to be discovered. Employers may see a felony as a red flag, indicating that the person may not be trustworthy or capable of adhering to the rules of the workplace.

Licensing and Certification Barriers

In addition to private employers, many professions require licensure or certification from the state or a governing body. Felony convictions often disqualify individuals from obtaining these necessary credentials. Professions like nursing, law, education, and even cosmetology may have rules prohibiting felons from practicing.

Some states have more lenient laws regarding licensing, but others have stringent requirements that make it nearly impossible for someone with a felony to obtain certification in their desired field: even if you are qualified for a job, your conviction may prevent you from working in that field legally.

Long-Term Economic Consequences

Even if you are fortunate enough to find employment after a felony conviction, the long-term economic impact can still be significant. Felons tend to earn less than their non-convicted counterparts, often because they are limited to lower-paying jobs or are excluded from career paths requiring higher education or specialized training.

Employment Discrimination and Felony Convictions

It is essential to recognize that while employers may be hesitant to hire individuals with felony convictions, they must comply with anti-discrimination laws. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) provides guidelines to ensure that criminal history is not used unfairly to discriminate against applicants.

For instance, employers must take into account the nature of the offense, the time that has passed since the conviction, and whether the conviction is relevant to the job in question. While these protections exist, it can still be challenging for someone with a felony record to prove that they were denied employment due to discrimination rather than their criminal background.

Career Advancement

The stigma of a felony conviction can also prevent someone from advancing within a company, making it difficult to climb the corporate ladder. Employers may hesitate to promote someone with a criminal record, fearing backlash from clients or other employees. In addition to lower wages, felons may face challenges in securing loans, housing, and other financial services, further hindering their ability to achieve economic stability.

The Poverty Cycle

The inability to find meaningful employment often leads to a cycle of poverty and recidivism. When felons are unable to secure jobs that pay a livable wage, they may feel forced to return to illegal activities or other high-risk behaviors. This cycle perpetuates the difficulty of reintegrating into society and makes it harder for convicted individuals to move forward.

Steps to Overcome Employment Barriers

Despite the significant obstacles, there are ways for individuals with felony convictions to improve their chances of finding employment. Many states offer reentry programs designed to help convicted individuals develop job skills, build resumes, and find supportive employers.

Additionally, obtaining an expungement or pardon can sometimes help clear your record, although this process is often lengthy and not available for all offenses. Networking can also help one find employment after a felony conviction, as many employers are more likely to take a chance on someone who comes with a recommendation from a trusted source.

Education and Skill Development

One of the most effective ways to overcome the barriers posed by a felony conviction is by continuing your education or developing specialized skills. Vocational training, certifications, or even completing a college degree can demonstrate to employers that you are committed to improving your future.

Having in-demand skills can also make you a more attractive candidate, regardless of your past. Some programs even work specifically with ex-offenders to help them transition into stable careers, providing both education and job placement services.

Call Passalacqua & Associates, LLC Today

A felony conviction has consequences for future employment, affecting everything from job opportunities to wages and career advancement. While some legal protections and programs exist to help convicted individuals reenter the workforce, the road is still challenging.

However, by seeking legal guidance, utilizing reentry programs, focusing on skill development, and understanding your legal rights, it is possible to find meaningful employment and begin to rebuild your life.

Don’t try to navigate your conviction alone: call Passalacqua & Associates, LLC today at 315-277-3548 to set up a time to meet with us about your unique case and make a plan to make the best of your situation.