If you have been found guilty of a criminal offense, you might wonder if you will be able to find a good job. Employers have become more and more concerned about knowing whether or not applicants have criminal history records. Part of this concern stems from significant jury decisions which have been rendered against employers for negligently hiring people with criminal histories who subsequently caused harm to others while on the job. An additional concern for employers relates to whether they will have to disclose the criminal conviction. For example, in cases where a company is attempting to raise capital, it might need to make certain disclosures to a bank. Will the business have to disclose that an employee has a criminal conviction for embezzlement or money laundering?


The laws about which criminal records an employer should or may access, what an employer may ask a potential employee and what the job applicant must reveal vary widely among states. In the event you have a criminal record and are searching for a job, it's in your greatest interest to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney knowledgeable in criminal law in Houston, Texas, to ensure that you go into the job search fully informed of your rights.


Contradictory Public Policies


On the one hand, the public wants to reintegrate into society individuals with criminal histories, rehabilitated and productively employed. A routine schedule and normal income reduce the likelihood that an individual will reoffend, but a person with a criminal history might have to deal with prejudice in the job application process. On the other hand, it is essential to protect the public from contact with previous offenders who might have propensities to re-commit. For example, convicted sex offenders shouldn't work with children or vulnerable adults.


Just How Much to Reveal


Based on the state, an applicant might not need to reveal any sort of or some types of potentially damaging information, like arrests not resulting in convictions or convictions for minor matters. Some states have procedures to judicially "erase" a criminal history. The Most Effective Houston Criminal Defense Lawyer can help figure out whether or not you may be eligible to have a conviction sealed, expunged or legally minimized.


Tips for Employment Re-entry



  • Tell the truth. Employers are interested in workers they are able to trust, and nearly all info on a job application may be checked and verified. Even if it may close the door to certain positions, revealing the truth is the best method to get a job that the applicant can retain over the long haul. Remember, in certain states not all convictions need to be revealed nor can would-be employers ask for particular info.

  • Begin the job search with loved ones, friends and acquaintances that might be more likely to take a chance on hiring someone they know, despite a criminal history.

  • Don't expect the first job after a conviction to be your perfect job. It is more important to get started somewhere and produce a track record, since employers know that a good indicator of future job performance is past job performance. Think about temporary or entry-level positions to develop your résumé.

    Recognize where the employer is coming from. It should balance its legal and ethical obligations to you, to its workers and towards the public.

  • Investigate career services. A good number of states have public agencies that administer programs to help individuals discover career, occasionally particularly created for those with criminal histories.

  • Refrain from alcohol & drug use. A few employers require employee drug testing.

  • Think about the nature of your prior offense. Apply for jobs where that type of criminal offense is less likely to be an issue of concern.


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Completing a jail term or paying a fine can be just part of the cost of a criminal conviction. The conviction can also affect post-conviction occupation opportunities, however several employers would like to provide those with criminal records chances in appropriate circumstances. Just one job - any type of job - may be the first step toward rebuilding a career and a life. The Recommended Houston Criminal Lawyer can give you advise about various options and provide guidance on planning for the future.