Can You Get a Job with a Felony?
The question of whether someone with a felony conviction can get a job is a common concern for many individuals who have been convicted of a crime. The answer is not a simple yes or no, as it depends on various factors, including the type of felony, the severity of the crime, and the individual’s circumstances.
The Impact of a Felony Conviction on Employment
A felony conviction can have a significant impact on an individual’s ability to find employment. Many employers are hesitant to hire individuals with a felony record, fearing that they may pose a risk to their business or employees. Additionally, some industries, such as healthcare, finance, and education, may have strict regulations prohibiting the hiring of individuals with felony convictions.
Types of Felonies and Their Impact on Employment
Not all felonies are created equal, and the type of felony can have a significant impact on an individual’s ability to find employment. Violent felonies, such as murder, assault, and robbery, are often viewed as more serious and may have a greater impact on an individual’s employability. Non-violent felonies, such as drug-related offenses and property crimes, may be viewed as less serious and may have a less significant impact on an individual’s employability.
State and Federal Laws Regarding Felony Convictions and Employment
State and federal laws regarding felony convictions and employment vary widely. Some states have laws that prohibit the use of felony convictions as a basis for denying employment, while others have laws that allow employers to consider felony convictions in the hiring process.
Federal Laws
The Fair Chance Act, a federal law passed in 2019, prohibits employers from asking about an applicant’s criminal history until after a conditional offer of employment has been made. This law applies to employers with 15 or more employees and applies to all states, except for certain states that have their own laws regarding criminal background checks.
State Laws
Many states have their own laws regarding felony convictions and employment. Some states, such as California, New York, and Illinois, have laws that prohibit the use of felony convictions as a basis for denying employment. Other states, such as Texas and Florida, have laws that allow employers to consider felony convictions in the hiring process.
Industries That May Hire Individuals with Felony Convictions
While many industries may be hesitant to hire individuals with felony convictions, there are some industries that may be more open to hiring individuals with a felony record. These industries include:
- Construction: Many construction companies are willing to hire individuals with felony convictions, as they often require workers with physical labor skills.
- Manufacturing: Manufacturing companies may be willing to hire individuals with felony convictions, as they often require workers with manual labor skills.
- Food Service: Food service companies, such as restaurants and cafes, may be willing to hire individuals with felony convictions, as they often require workers with customer service skills.
- Landscaping: Landscaping companies may be willing to hire individuals with felony convictions, as they often require workers with physical labor skills.
Tips for Individuals with Felony Convictions
If you have a felony conviction and are looking for employment, here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Be honest: Be honest about your felony conviction on your application and during the interview process.
- Highlight your skills: Highlight your skills and qualifications, even if they are not directly related to the job you are applying for.
- Prepare for questions: Prepare for questions about your felony conviction and be prepared to discuss your rehabilitation and any positive changes you have made in your life.
- Consider working with a recruiter: Consider working with a recruiter who specializes in placing individuals with felony convictions in jobs.
Conclusion
While a felony conviction can have a significant impact on an individual’s ability to find employment, it is not impossible to get a job with a felony. By understanding the laws and regulations surrounding felony convictions and employment, and by highlighting one’s skills and qualifications, individuals with felony convictions can increase their chances of finding employment.
