What is the best way to overcome a criminal background?

Jason W

Well, it depends on what kind of a job you are looking for. If you are looking for a career in civil service, you can pretty much forget about it if it was a felony.

As far as other kinds of jobs, take a serious look at what state you are residing in. Each state has very different laws as to what information is available to employers and even what kinds of questions employers may ask about your history. For example, in Kansas, everything that the state has on your criminal past is fair game for an employer, including arrests and verdicts of "not guilty," and an employer is free to ask, as a condition of employment, what your history is. By contrast, in Massachusetts, the version of computerized criminal records shown to non-government employers includes only actual convictions for felonies which carry maximum terms of imprisonment of five years or more, there are also tight legal restrictions on what questions employers may ask about a person's history, and employers may not inquire about about any misdemeanor conviction dating more than five years ago.

Consider looking into the various laws of the states, and consider moving to a state that provides better protections for a person's criminal history.

mscute1lori

That is Ironic that your major is Criminal Justice and you were a Criminal, Not meant in a bad way.

You can get your record expunge after 2 years of no same or similar crimes.

The wait is excruciating but worth it.

KnottedBrain

Ask a lawyer, maybe you can get them expunged.

Kate

I'm sorry to hear that you're struggling with your criminal background. I'm sure alot of people that have been incarcerated feel the same way. However, in the field of Criminal Justice, you kind of do need a some what of a decent background in order for someone to hire you. The reason why is because you will be dealing with criminals and having someone with a criminal background might feed to the corrupted flames. I'm not sure exactly what your criminal background is (manslaughter, robbery, burglary, theft, drug use) depending on how long your RAP sheet is or how long ago you've committed the crime does have a factor. Everyone deserves second chances however in the field of criminal justice it has no leeway. You just might have to choose another profession you want to enter into. Have a plan B just incase.

No Name

Can you apply for a pardon? The Canadian govenment entitles you to one in your lifetime, but I'm not sure about the US. It depends on the crime of course, but it's something to look into.

I would always tell the truth though. The truth always comes out in the end and you could create even more troubles in the future if you lied.

PAUL C

Face the facts and move on. Lying about your past is an immediate grounds for dismissal.

justanotherone

Lying on the employment application is another criminal offense. I would not recommend that! You're going to have to get over your pride, and take whatever job you can get. Then, to overcome your background, you will have to work hard, and prove that you are a great employee.

Prospective employers look at several things before they decide who is the best person for the job. Honesty is one of the things they judge. Be upfront during the interview process. Do not bring it up yourself, but if you are questioned on it, be accountable for your past actions. Explain that it was years ago, and you have learned.

SB155

You don't...unless the record of your conviction is sealed (likely meaning that you committed the criminal act as a juvenile). If you lie and get caught, that is a crime in many states.....Filing Fale Information with a Government Agency. I hate to say it but your indescretions as a young adult are going to impact you horribly as a now mature adult. Try a PI firm, and make a go of it. No way would you pass muster unless, by some stroke of luck, a background check of you is not performed. Good Luck.

lollipop

You could get something like a Presidential pardon. The presidential power to pardon is granted under Article II, Section 2 of the Constitution. "The President ... shall have power to grant reprieves and pardons for offenses against the United States, except in cases of impeachment."

There's something else, too, when the President can wipe out your entire criminal background. But you have to go to Supreme Court or something like that...

Knowitall

Your screwed!

You can't overcome a felony if you want to be in law enforcement. heck you can't even get a gun.

If its not a felony you wont be rewarded for honesty. You will have to lie to get in.

Staceygurl

Criminal justice with a background will be tough to overcome, maybe you should try politics, they will hire anybody.

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