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Unfortunately for convicted felons, it can be hard to obtain or maintain a job. Employment is only one aspect of daily life that can be impacted by a criminal record. It is important to create an effective defense so work with a Mercer County criminal defense lawyer during your case for skilled representation and legal counsel.
Is it Hard to Get a Job as a Convicted Felon?
It can be difficult for convicted felons to obtain employment. There is often prejudice against individuals with criminal records and some employers will not even consider a candidate with a criminal history. Fortunately, in an effort to counteract these biases, laws have been passed to limit a potential employer’s knowledge of an applicant’s criminal record before giving them a fair shot at getting hired.
What Does the NJ Opportunity to Compete Act Do?
In 2015, New Jersey’s Opportunity to Compete Act went into effect. Informally known as the Ban the Box law, the OCA restricts employers’ ability to request information about a job applicant’s criminal history.
The act does not prevent them from ever learning about a candidate’s record, but it dictates when an employer can inquire about it. During the initial employment application process, employers cannot ask about any arrests or criminal convictions. This includes both written questions on a job application and verbal questions in an interview.
New Jersey law defines the initial employment application process as the time between the first inquiry about prospective employment and the end of the first interview between the employer and applicant. After the first interview, the employer can ask about a criminal record or conduct a background check.
The point of this act is to prevent the employer from developing biases about the applicant based only on their criminal history. This law allows the applicant to have a fair chance to show the employer who they are, their qualifications, and why they are the best fit for the role without the stain of their criminal record influencing any opinions.
What Jobs Can Convicted Felons Not Get?
Some jobs are simply impossible for convicted felons to be hired for. Depending on the crime having a conviction can limit job opportunities.
For example, if the felony involved alcohol or drugs you may be unable to obtain employment working with children or in healthcare. You may also be unable to be a bus driver or truck driver. Certain healthcare jobs like doctors require special licensing. Having a felony conviction can prevent you from being able to get licensed for the role.
Contact an Attorney for Assistance
It is important to note that the OCA does not apply to certain situations like if the applicant is seeking employment in law enforcement, corrections, homeland security, etc. Additionally, if the occupation is required by law to conduct background checks on candidates there will be an exception. For more detailed information about your rights and options speak with an experienced attorney.
