What Does "Felony Including Misdemeanor" Mean on a Background Check?
When it comes to background checks, you may have come across the term "felony including misdemeanor" on a report. But what does it mean? In this article, we’ll break down the difference between felony and misdemeanor, and what it means when they’re listed together on a background check.
What is a Felony?
A felony is a serious crime that is punishable by more than one year in prison. Felonies are considered more severe than misdemeanors and are typically crimes that cause harm to individuals or society as a whole. Examples of felonies include:
• Murder
• Rape
• Robbery
• Burglary
• Fraud
• Drug trafficking
What is a Misdemeanor?
A misdemeanor, on the other hand, is a less serious crime that is punishable by up to one year in prison. Misdemeanors are considered less severe than felonies and are typically crimes that cause minor harm to individuals or society. Examples of misdemeanors include:
• Disorderly conduct
• Simple assault
• Shoplifting
• Petty theft
• Public intoxication
What Does "Felony Including Misdemeanor" Mean on a Background Check?
When a background check report lists "felony including misdemeanor," it means that the individual has been convicted of or pleaded guilty to a felony and/or a misdemeanor. This can include both:
• Felony convictions
• Misdemeanor convictions
• Pleas of guilty to felony or misdemeanor charges
In other words, the report is indicating that the individual has a criminal history that includes both felony and misdemeanor charges. This can be a significant finding on a background check, as it may impact an individual’s ability to obtain employment, housing, or other opportunities.
Why is This Information Important?
The inclusion of both felony and misdemeanor charges on a background check report is important for several reasons:
• Risk assessment: Employers, landlords, and other organizations may use background check reports to assess the risk of hiring or renting to an individual. A history of felony and misdemeanor charges may indicate a higher risk of criminal behavior.
• Compliance with laws and regulations: Many industries, such as healthcare and finance, have laws and regulations that require background checks for employees. A felony including misdemeanor report may trigger additional scrutiny or requirements.
• Public safety: A history of criminal behavior, including both felony and misdemeanor charges, may raise concerns about an individual’s ability to pose a threat to public safety.
What to Do if You Have a Felony Including Misdemeanor Report
If you have a felony including misdemeanor report, it’s essential to understand the specific charges and their impact on your background check. Here are some steps you can take:
• Review the report: Carefully review the background check report to understand the specific charges and convictions.
• Understand the laws and regulations: Research the laws and regulations that apply to your industry or situation.
• Seek legal advice: Consult with an attorney to understand your rights and options.
• Address any inaccuracies: If you find errors or inaccuracies on the report, work with the reporting agency to correct them.
Conclusion
A felony including misdemeanor report on a background check can have significant implications for an individual’s future. It’s essential to understand the meaning and significance of this report, as well as the laws and regulations that apply to your situation. By taking the right steps and seeking legal advice, you can navigate the complexities of a felony including misdemeanor report and move forward with confidence.
Table: Comparison of Felonies and Misdemeanors
Felony | Misdemeanor | |
---|---|---|
Punishment | More than one year in prison | Up to one year in prison |
Severity | More severe | Less severe |
Examples | Murder, rape, robbery, burglary, fraud | Disorderly conduct, simple assault, shoplifting, petty theft, public intoxication |
Impact | Can have significant impact on employment, housing, and other opportunities | Typically has less significant impact on employment, housing, and other opportunities |
Note: This article is intended to provide general information and should not be considered legal advice. If you have a felony including misdemeanor report, it’s essential to consult with an attorney to understand your specific situation and options.