Criminal Convictions Can Have Career-Long Consequences

A criminal conviction carries a double edged sword. If a court finds a person guilty of a non-violent crime or misdemeanor, they may be subject to penalties from the state and could lose their job. Now, their resume carries the blemish of termination and conviction. How can this be prevented?

Policies reflect changes in society

Societal attitudes toward non-violent crimes and misdemeanors are relaxing. State law and employment policies are changing to reflect this. Uber, the popular ridesharing service, recently relaxed screening requirements for people with non-violent convictions, according to Hartford Courant. The ruling affects drivers in Connecticut, Rhode Island and California specifically.

Before the rule change, drivers may not have been able to work for the ridesharing service because Uber’s background check differs from the state requirements for obtaining a taxi license. However, a 2017 state law limits when employers can ask prospective employees for a criminal record.

Civil liberty advocates say that employment for people with criminal convictions can help “stabilize their lives,” according to the Courant. Previously, some employers checked criminal records from the past seven years of more.

Reliable criminal defense is needed when faced with charges

A misdemeanor is a minor wrongdoing that is less serious than a felony. Criminal penalties for a misdemeanor usually include a maximum penalty less than one year in a jail and a $1,000 fine. However, just because the crime or punishment is considered minor does not mean the implications are.

Working professionals charged with nonviolent crimes and misdemeanors deserve reliable representation. Professionals should seek the help of a local criminal defense attorney when facing charges related to the following:

• DUI
• Drug crimes
• Minor traffic violations
• Assault
• Petty theft

How a criminal defense attorney can help

Attorneys are trained and certified legal professionals. They understand the nuances of the law and the court system. This knowledge can give defendants many options in the court of law. Proving a crime “beyond a reasonable doubt” requires both sides to seek the truth. Defendants have the opportunity to plead their case by having their story heard in front of a judge and jury.

When defendants have options for criminal defense, they can best protect their future career prospects. Like a story with two sides, the scale of the criminal justice system seeks balance for all.