Q: On June 3, 2010 accepted a plea bargain and I now have a c felony and an e felony on my record (c felony: attempting to manufacture schedule I / e felony manufacturing schedule VI ) I have been put on probation for eight years and I assume I am not eligible for expungement until after the probation. I am 56 years old, I have a PhD in psychology. Since almost all employers do criminal background checks, I also assume that my former career as a college professor is over. I am pursuing a Masters degree in addiction counseling but I can't live on just my student loans with court fines and probation fees added to my cost of living.
The one-stop center in Asheville, NC has not been helpful. they referred me to Goodwill who only help ex-convicts coming out of prison. The probation office is not very helpful - they consider it my responsibility to be gainfully employed - which is extremely hard to do under the circumstances. The federal bonding program sounds good, but the Fidelity Bond Certificate requires an employer - so you have to be employed or offered employment before the bond is issued! - I would appreciate any advice you can give me.
M.T.
Asheville, NC
Hello M.T.,
A: Please don't give up on the One-stop. Just because they were not able to help you that one time, doesn't mean they won't be able to help you in the future. Don't forget they have access to the bank of available jobs in your state.
With your background, you may also want to contact your local United Way. The United Way supports a number of non-profit social service organizations that may be able to use someone with your extensive qualifications as well as agencies that help convicted felons You can find information about the United Way in the Asheville area here:
http://www.unitedwayabc.org/
I hope this helps.
Are you a felon who is having difficulty finding a job? You can have your questions answered on this blog. Just send your questions to adogzheart2@gmail.com
If you are really serious about getting a job with a criminal record or helping someone you care about get a job, check out this link: From Jail to a Job
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Saturday, June 26, 2010
Felon may need legal help to get a job
Q: I am currently seeking my Bachelors and soon to be my Masters in the Field of Psychology. I was hoping to become a Clinical Psychologist however I was wondering if there are any laws that prohibit a felon that was convicted of a Violent crime (Vehicular Homicide Disregard to the safety of others) from working in this field. If I can not do Clinical Psychology is there a possibility in the Research side of Psychology. I am currently living out of the country but hope to be moving back with my husband as I begin my masters in 2011. I know that Medical field is generally out for violent criminals but it has been 7 years since I was convicted and 5 years since I finished all my Probation and jail time. Do I have any hope of finding a position in Clinical Psychology in the United States or should I focus on Research Psychology...?
A: Hello,
Obtaining a job in your field depends on whether you can be licensed or certified. I suggest you contact the licensing board in your state to see if your conviction will be an obstacle.
Often ex-offenders and felons need a little legal assistance in their search for jobs. I have had students with Vehicular Homicide convictions downgraded to Aggravated Assault which is a lot easier to work with. Contact an attorney to see if this is an option in your state.
I hope this helps.
If you are really serious about getting a job with a criminal record or helping someone you care about get a job, check out this link: From Jail to a Job
A: Hello,
Obtaining a job in your field depends on whether you can be licensed or certified. I suggest you contact the licensing board in your state to see if your conviction will be an obstacle.
Often ex-offenders and felons need a little legal assistance in their search for jobs. I have had students with Vehicular Homicide convictions downgraded to Aggravated Assault which is a lot easier to work with. Contact an attorney to see if this is an option in your state.
I hope this helps.
Are you a felon who is having difficulty finding a job? You can have your questions answered on this blog. Just send your questions to
If you are really serious about getting a job with a criminal record or helping someone you care about get a job, check out this link: From Jail to a Job
Friday, June 25, 2010
Felons' mom wants to help them get jobs
Q: I live in North Carolina and I have two sons. One is 24 and the other is 21. The 24 year old got in trouble 5 years ago for DWI and for having less than an ounce of marijuana on him. He went to rehab and has worked construction and done pylon work. He can not get employment anywhere because of his record what can be done? He has not been in any trouble since then.
The 21 year old has had several issues with Driving with no operators license, DWI, drinking underage. He was charged back in 2006 at the time of the incident but did not go to trial until last year. So he decided to get it over with and do his days in jail to not have to deal with probation. Recently he tried to get on with a company he worked for before and because of the charges they would not hire him back.
How long does someone have to keep on paying for crimes commited years ago. Both these boys deserve a chance to make it in this world, unfortunately they were not able to attend college because being a single mother I could not afford it. I have worked for the same company for over 20 years, this same company is the one that would not hire my son back. At some point doesn't the state step in and say enough is enough, alot of the people we have tried to hire have records of some sort and because of it we can't hire them, so instead people like me who have fended by myself raising two boys have to support them when they go on welfare. What can I do or they do to find a job?
Charmane,
Hello Charmane,
I'm sorry your sons are having so much trouble. I suggest that they apply for employment at temporary agencies. Temp agencies are always looking for good people. When applying for temporary employment ex-offenders and felons should apply at smaller independent agencies rather that the large nationally known agencies. Usually smaller agencies do not have a parent companies setting hiring restrictions on them. They hire anyone they choose. Often if temporary employees are good, they are hired on a permanent basis.
This is just one option. The best of luck to you and your sons.
Are you a felon who is having difficulty finding a job? You can have your questions answered on this blog. Just send your questions to adogzheart2@gmail.com
The 21 year old has had several issues with Driving with no operators license, DWI, drinking underage. He was charged back in 2006 at the time of the incident but did not go to trial until last year. So he decided to get it over with and do his days in jail to not have to deal with probation. Recently he tried to get on with a company he worked for before and because of the charges they would not hire him back.
How long does someone have to keep on paying for crimes commited years ago. Both these boys deserve a chance to make it in this world, unfortunately they were not able to attend college because being a single mother I could not afford it. I have worked for the same company for over 20 years, this same company is the one that would not hire my son back. At some point doesn't the state step in and say enough is enough, alot of the people we have tried to hire have records of some sort and because of it we can't hire them, so instead people like me who have fended by myself raising two boys have to support them when they go on welfare. What can I do or they do to find a job?
Charmane,
Hello Charmane,
I'm sorry your sons are having so much trouble. I suggest that they apply for employment at temporary agencies. Temp agencies are always looking for good people. When applying for temporary employment ex-offenders and felons should apply at smaller independent agencies rather that the large nationally known agencies. Usually smaller agencies do not have a parent companies setting hiring restrictions on them. They hire anyone they choose. Often if temporary employees are good, they are hired on a permanent basis.
This is just one option. The best of luck to you and your sons.
Are you a felon who is having difficulty finding a job? You can have your questions answered on this blog. Just send your questions to adogzheart2@gmail.com
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Felon in NJ needs Job Search Advice
Q: I was convicted of a felony about a year ago for a theft that took place when I was 19 years old. I am now 21 years old in desperate need of gainful employment. I have a great work history, however the mistake that I made as an unwise young man is preventing me from attaining employment. When I go to interviewers usually love me and WANT TO HIRE ME, but once the background check is administered I don't hear from them. I am extremely remorseful for the mistakes that I have made and it grieves me everyday to know that I can't turn back the hands of time. Since my conviction I've gone back to school. Two weeks after my release I landed a job at Banana Republic of Short Hills Mall . However I was terminated a few weeks before Christmas for the record.
I received my diploma in January and I'm looking forward to college next semester. I have a two year old son that looks up to me so much and i want to be the BEST that I can be for him. I just got hired at the airport on Friday . They want me to come in for a drug test and finger printing on Monday. Should I go In knowing I have a record? Do I Even Qualify? It would change my life it you could help in any way to get this baggage handling position.
Please get back to me.
Rayon
A: Hello Rayon,
My guess is when you apply for jobs, you are not completely honest on applications. Often it is tempting not to list a conviction. Even if you get hired, once the background check is done you will probably get fired - not for having a conviction, but for being dishonest. I always encourage ex-offenders and felons looking for jobs is to always be honest.
In regards to your upcoming opportunity, you have to take it. You have a theft conviction which will often make you an unlikely candidate for positions where anything of value is at risk. A position as a baggage handler doesn't require a great amount of trust so you have a decent shot. I would also look into the federal bonding program. Check out the video below:
Check out this post too:
http://howfelonscangetjobs.blogspot.com/2010/03/felon-has-job-and-needs-federal-bond.html
In the future, honesty is always the best policy.
I hope this helps.
I received my diploma in January and I'm looking forward to college next semester. I have a two year old son that looks up to me so much and i want to be the BEST that I can be for him. I just got hired at the airport on Friday . They want me to come in for a drug test and finger printing on Monday. Should I go In knowing I have a record? Do I Even Qualify? It would change my life it you could help in any way to get this baggage handling position.
Please get back to me.
Rayon
A: Hello Rayon,
My guess is when you apply for jobs, you are not completely honest on applications. Often it is tempting not to list a conviction. Even if you get hired, once the background check is done you will probably get fired - not for having a conviction, but for being dishonest. I always encourage ex-offenders and felons looking for jobs is to always be honest.
In regards to your upcoming opportunity, you have to take it. You have a theft conviction which will often make you an unlikely candidate for positions where anything of value is at risk. A position as a baggage handler doesn't require a great amount of trust so you have a decent shot. I would also look into the federal bonding program. Check out the video below:
Check out this post too:
http://howfelonscangetjobs.blogspot.com/2010/03/felon-has-job-and-needs-federal-bond.html
In the future, honesty is always the best policy.
I hope this helps.
Are you a felon who is having difficulty finding a job? You can have your questions answered on this blog. Just send your questions to
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Felon wants Job in Medical Field
Q: I am an ex-offender, with a drug trafficking charges, just got out of prison a month ago. I was locked up for 5 years. I was interested in a career in Medical Billing and Coding. I applied at the local community college and got accepted. When I was ready to register for classes the head of the program said that I won't be employable. I chose that program because there is no clinical involved and he thinks the record will be a problem. I am from Pensacola Fa. What do you think?
A: Hello,
My personal feeling is that everyone is employable. The question is will your legal status prohibit you from being licensed or certified in your chosen field. Just a little insight, to my knowledge there are few positions offered as Medical Biller/Coder. The Medical biller compiles and tracks the outstanding balances owed to medical facilities. The function of billing and coding is often part of other positions. It may be a function of a medical assistant or some other position. It often isn't a stand-alone position. I could be wrong, so get some clarification from the school you wish to attend. Also find out if there are any certification or licensing requirements.
Often felon job searches start with some legal help. I suggest contacing your local legal aid office to inquire about expungement or other legal alternatives that could help you.
Best of luck to you.
Are you a felon who is having difficulty finding a job? You can have your questions answered on this blog. Just send your questions to adogzheart2@gmail.com
If you are really serious about getting a job with a criminal record or helping someone you care about get a job, check out this link: From Jail to a Job
A: Hello,
My personal feeling is that everyone is employable. The question is will your legal status prohibit you from being licensed or certified in your chosen field. Just a little insight, to my knowledge there are few positions offered as Medical Biller/Coder. The Medical biller compiles and tracks the outstanding balances owed to medical facilities. The function of billing and coding is often part of other positions. It may be a function of a medical assistant or some other position. It often isn't a stand-alone position. I could be wrong, so get some clarification from the school you wish to attend. Also find out if there are any certification or licensing requirements.
Often felon job searches start with some legal help. I suggest contacing your local legal aid office to inquire about expungement or other legal alternatives that could help you.
Best of luck to you.
Are you a felon who is having difficulty finding a job? You can have your questions answered on this blog. Just send your questions to adogzheart2@gmail.com
If you are really serious about getting a job with a criminal record or helping someone you care about get a job, check out this link: From Jail to a Job
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Felon in Houston needs help finding a job
Q: Hello my name is Wayne. I'm a convicted drug felon looking for work in Houston,TX. My conviction is 5 yrs old I have worked since but was laid off. I would like to know if you all have any leads on my city where I could possibly get a job.
Thank You
A: Hello Wayne,
I suggest you go to your local One-stop Career center. There are many services as well as counselors that can help ex-offenders and felons get jobs. Often the counselors are experienced at assisting those with criminal backgrounds. The counselors also have access to the bank of open positions in your state.
You can find the centers in the Houston area here:
http://www.servicelocator.org/Search/etaSearchOffice.asp?zip=&city=houston&state=TX&proximity=10&search=Search
I hope this helps.
Are you a felon who is having difficulty finding a job? You can have your questions answered on this blog. Just send your questions to adogzheart2@gmail.com
If you are really serious about getting a job with a criminal record or helping someone you care about get a job, check out this link: From Jail to a Job
Thank You
A: Hello Wayne,
I suggest you go to your local One-stop Career center. There are many services as well as counselors that can help ex-offenders and felons get jobs. Often the counselors are experienced at assisting those with criminal backgrounds. The counselors also have access to the bank of open positions in your state.
You can find the centers in the Houston area here:
http://www.servicelocator.org/Search/etaSearchOffice.asp?zip=&city=houston&state=TX&proximity=10&search=Search
I hope this helps.
Are you a felon who is having difficulty finding a job? You can have your questions answered on this blog. Just send your questions to adogzheart2@gmail.com
If you are really serious about getting a job with a criminal record or helping someone you care about get a job, check out this link: From Jail to a Job
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Felon needs help finding a job
Q: Hello,
I would like to ask a question about trying to find a job for someone who is a Grand Larceny offender. I have found it to be very hard in these days and times trying to find a job when you have convicted of a charge such as Grand Larceny. No one want to hire you or even give you a chance. I was convicted 5 years ago. I was able to find a job after I was convicted. But due to the economy right now I was laid off over a year and a half ago where I was a manger at a Bookstore. Since that time I have been blessed to be on unemployment. The unemployment will soon run out and I don't know what I am going to do. It's not hard for me to get a job I just know when they say that they are going to do a background check they will always re-track their offer. So how do I find a job that will work with my charge. I have over 10 years to management and I can't even get a job sweeping the floor. I would take that job if offered, I would like to add. I would like your input if you have the time.
Thanks
A: Hello,
I encourage ex-offenders and felons to apply for jobs using resumes with well written cover letters. Often this will help them get around the application process.
I also suggest contacting your local United Way office. The United Way supports various social service organizations some of which provide services for ex-offenders and felons looking for jobs.
I hope this helps.
Are you a felon who is having difficulty finding a job? You can have your questions answered on this blog. Just send your questions to adogzheart2@gmail.com
If you are really serious about getting a job with a criminal record or helping someone you care about get a job, check out this link: From Jail to a Job
I would like to ask a question about trying to find a job for someone who is a Grand Larceny offender. I have found it to be very hard in these days and times trying to find a job when you have convicted of a charge such as Grand Larceny. No one want to hire you or even give you a chance. I was convicted 5 years ago. I was able to find a job after I was convicted. But due to the economy right now I was laid off over a year and a half ago where I was a manger at a Bookstore. Since that time I have been blessed to be on unemployment. The unemployment will soon run out and I don't know what I am going to do. It's not hard for me to get a job I just know when they say that they are going to do a background check they will always re-track their offer. So how do I find a job that will work with my charge. I have over 10 years to management and I can't even get a job sweeping the floor. I would take that job if offered, I would like to add. I would like your input if you have the time.
Thanks
A: Hello,
I encourage ex-offenders and felons to apply for jobs using resumes with well written cover letters. Often this will help them get around the application process.
I also suggest contacting your local United Way office. The United Way supports various social service organizations some of which provide services for ex-offenders and felons looking for jobs.
I hope this helps.
Are you a felon who is having difficulty finding a job? You can have your questions answered on this blog. Just send your questions to adogzheart2@gmail.com
If you are really serious about getting a job with a criminal record or helping someone you care about get a job, check out this link: From Jail to a Job
Friday, June 11, 2010
Felon in Tennessee wants to keep her job
Q: My name is Christi and I was convicted of attempting to obtain narcotics by fraud after my ex mother in law who is a drug addict and I tried to help stay sober tried to get a prescription in my name. I got lucky and never went to jail and the detective who filed the charges has since been demoted for drugs and abuse of his position. I had never been in trouble before. I live in the state of Tennessee an have been offered a job as a phlebotomist in a lab. My new boss has no problem with this because she knows I am an honest person. I don't know if the human resources dept will allow me to keep my new job. I qualified for a judicial diversion but because I divorced my abusive ex husband he did not give it to me. I just want to work and get my life back. Can you help me find out how to expunge this. I was convicted in 2007 served my probation for 2 years with no problems I don't want to lose my home. I just want to work doing what I love an need a chance to build my life back. This has haunted me for too long.
Christi in Tennessee
A: Hello Christi,
Why are you so concerened about losng your job? Hopefully you were truthful on your application. If you were, I see no reason for them to let you go.
Expungement may be a good option for you depending on your state. Often ex-offender and felon job searches begin with some legal assistance. Contact your local legal aid office to inquire if expungement is an option for you. Legal aid offices often provide low-cost or even no-cost assistance.
I hope this helps.
Are you a felon who is having difficulty finding a job? You can have your questions answered on this blog. Just send your questions to adogzheart2@gmail.com
If you are really serious about getting a job with a criminal record or helping someone you care about get a job, check out this link: From Jail to a Job
Christi in Tennessee
A: Hello Christi,
Why are you so concerened about losng your job? Hopefully you were truthful on your application. If you were, I see no reason for them to let you go.
Expungement may be a good option for you depending on your state. Often ex-offender and felon job searches begin with some legal assistance. Contact your local legal aid office to inquire if expungement is an option for you. Legal aid offices often provide low-cost or even no-cost assistance.
I hope this helps.
Are you a felon who is having difficulty finding a job? You can have your questions answered on this blog. Just send your questions to adogzheart2@gmail.com
If you are really serious about getting a job with a criminal record or helping someone you care about get a job, check out this link: From Jail to a Job
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Ex-offender in need of help and a job
Q: Hello, I came across your site and thought I'd ask for advice. I have a petit theft charge from 2008, ever since then I have not been able to find a job. Went into a huge depression for 2 years beacause my relationship was heading south and I was unable to find work. I actively searched, landed a few jobs, lost them due to my charge. Since 2007 I have been in a serious relationship. I'm in love but it's affected us. In order for us to be together I chose to live in his mom's house where I felt ostricized. She had an abusive relationshipwith her partner and I wanted us out. I landed a job and we saved ourmoney for an apartment (which was also hard to find because of my record), and we moved out. two weeks later I lost my job. I am unable to find another job and I don't know what to do, I can't receive unemployment I haven't worked. I am ineligible for assistance. We have no car. I don't have money to take the bus to look for a job. I am lost and I will lose everything if I don't fix this fast. I am lost.
A: I'm sorry you are having so much trouble. It seems to me that you are in need of social services as well as a job. Often ex-offenders and felons need other forms of assistance as much as they need jobs. My suggestion is for you to contact your local Salvation Army office. You may find services that can help you until you get on your feet. You can get more information here:
http://www.salvationarmyusa.org/usn/www_usn_2.nsf/vw-dynamic-index/B81E8F9B7CDB342C852574410054106E?Opendocument
I would also contact the United Way office in your area. The United Way supports a number of community services. Ex-offenders and felons may recieve direct assistance or referral for jobs.
You can find a United way office near you. Follow the link below:
http://national.unitedway.org/myuw/
I hope this helps
Are you a felon who is having difficulty finding a job? You can have your questions answered on this blog. Just send your questions to:
adogzheart2@gmail.com
If you are really serious about getting a job with a criminal record or helping someone you care about get a job, check out this link: From Jail to a Job
A: I'm sorry you are having so much trouble. It seems to me that you are in need of social services as well as a job. Often ex-offenders and felons need other forms of assistance as much as they need jobs. My suggestion is for you to contact your local Salvation Army office. You may find services that can help you until you get on your feet. You can get more information here:
http://www.salvationarmyusa.org/usn/www_usn_2.nsf/vw-dynamic-index/B81E8F9B7CDB342C852574410054106E?Opendocument
I would also contact the United Way office in your area. The United Way supports a number of community services. Ex-offenders and felons may recieve direct assistance or referral for jobs.
You can find a United way office near you. Follow the link below:
http://national.unitedway.org/myuw/
I hope this helps
Are you a felon who is having difficulty finding a job? You can have your questions answered on this blog. Just send your questions to:
adogzheart2@gmail.com
If you are really serious about getting a job with a criminal record or helping someone you care about get a job, check out this link: From Jail to a Job
Monday, June 7, 2010
Felon wants job as Drug Counselor
Q: Hi i am a recovering meth addict who was arrested in 2006 on federal charges for conspiracy to distribute meth. I live in California. I have done time in rehabs, halfway houses, and prison. Being 26 years old now I'm would like to go back to school and better myself. I am currently working at a family owned business but want something more for myself. I was thinking something in medical office or drug counseling. What would you recommend someone who has a criminal background go to school for? I do not want to waste my time going to school for something and not being able to get a job in that field. I am still on federal probation and will be for at least another 3 years. I know that this will prevent me from obtaining a license through the state. Any ideas??
Thanks so much!
A: I know many ex-offenders and felons who have become drug/alcohol counselors. If you check the link below you will find everything you need to know about what it takes to become a counselor in the state of California including a link to email the Certification Administrator. That person should be able to advise you of your prospective eligibility.
http://www.caadac.org/
The very best of luck to you.
Are you a felon who is having difficulty finding a job? You can have your questions answered on this blog. Just send your questions to:
adogzheart2@gmail.com
If you are really serious about getting a job with a criminal record or helping someone you care about get a job, check out this link: From Jail to a Job
Thanks so much!
A: I know many ex-offenders and felons who have become drug/alcohol counselors. If you check the link below you will find everything you need to know about what it takes to become a counselor in the state of California including a link to email the Certification Administrator. That person should be able to advise you of your prospective eligibility.
http://www.caadac.org/
The very best of luck to you.
Are you a felon who is having difficulty finding a job? You can have your questions answered on this blog. Just send your questions to:
adogzheart2@gmail.com
If you are really serious about getting a job with a criminal record or helping someone you care about get a job, check out this link: From Jail to a Job
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Felon with degree is job hunting
Q: To Whom It May Concern,
I have three drug felonies; 2 for marijuana and 1 for vicodin. I graduate in 2 months with bachelors in business management from The University of Texas. I start MBA program in September. Ive been filling out app's like crazy and sending out my resume all over the country, but I get no responses at all. The only interview Ive had was at TacoBell for a GM position, but they told me my background prohibited me from being employed at their company. TacoBell!! That scares me; the fact that TacoBell turned me down. I have spent a fortune on this education and I am worried that it was all for nothing. Any help or advice you could give would be helpful.
Thanks,
Jon
A: Hello Jon,
Don't blame your lack of responses on your criminal history. This is a tough time for anyone looking for a job let alone a felon.
Blindly sending out unsolicited resumes is a tough way to get noticed. Do a little homework and find specific people to send your application letters to.
Check out the video below. It is a list of companies that have been known to hire people with criminal records:
Often ex-offender and felon job searches begin with some legal assistance. I suggest contacting the legal aid office in your area to see if expungement is an option in your state. If so, you may be able to get low-cost or no-cost help with the process.
Being a college graduate myself, I know the time, effort and other sacrifices you have made to get your degree. I also know that often it may be a while until you are able to get a position you feel is worthy of your education. Sometime when we want more, we have to pay some dues. Be prepared to humble yourself for future rewards.
Be patient and work hard.
Eric
Are you a felon who is having difficulty finding a job? You can have your questions answered on this blog. Just send your questions to:
adogzheart2@gmail.com
If you are really serious about getting a job with a criminal record or helping someone you care about get a job, check out this link: From Jail to a Job
I have three drug felonies; 2 for marijuana and 1 for vicodin. I graduate in 2 months with bachelors in business management from The University of Texas. I start MBA program in September. Ive been filling out app's like crazy and sending out my resume all over the country, but I get no responses at all. The only interview Ive had was at TacoBell for a GM position, but they told me my background prohibited me from being employed at their company. TacoBell!! That scares me; the fact that TacoBell turned me down. I have spent a fortune on this education and I am worried that it was all for nothing. Any help or advice you could give would be helpful.
Thanks,
Jon
A: Hello Jon,
Don't blame your lack of responses on your criminal history. This is a tough time for anyone looking for a job let alone a felon.
Blindly sending out unsolicited resumes is a tough way to get noticed. Do a little homework and find specific people to send your application letters to.
Check out the video below. It is a list of companies that have been known to hire people with criminal records:
Often ex-offender and felon job searches begin with some legal assistance. I suggest contacting the legal aid office in your area to see if expungement is an option in your state. If so, you may be able to get low-cost or no-cost help with the process.
Being a college graduate myself, I know the time, effort and other sacrifices you have made to get your degree. I also know that often it may be a while until you are able to get a position you feel is worthy of your education. Sometime when we want more, we have to pay some dues. Be prepared to humble yourself for future rewards.
Be patient and work hard.
Eric
Are you a felon who is having difficulty finding a job? You can have your questions answered on this blog. Just send your questions to:
adogzheart2@gmail.com
If you are really serious about getting a job with a criminal record or helping someone you care about get a job, check out this link: From Jail to a Job
Friday, June 4, 2010
Expungement may help felons get Jobs
Q: I have a 5 1/2 year old felony for selling marijuana. I had no jail time. I will complete a bachelors degree this summer in Human services. I would like to work as a case manager. I applied for a non paid internship as part of my school requirements and was turned down flat. I am freaked out. I have supported myself in the past 5 years by bartending and working for a family member. I have never worked manual labor and have no particular skills in that area. I am very computer proficient and had been thinking about getting a masters in social work. But now I am wondering if I have wasted all of my efforts by going to college when I can't even work as a free intern. Also...what is "expungement" and how do you look into it? Thank you for any advice.
A: Hello,
First of all, getting a degree is by no means a waste of time. You are in a much better position than most ex-offenders and felons looking for jobs. I always suggest applying for jobs by sending resumes with well written cover letters. Often this may help to get around the application process.
Expungement may be a good option for you depending on your state. Expungement amounts to a court order effectively sealing a court proceeding and its affects from public view. This would appear that your conviction does not exist. It does, but will only be visible to the court system, law enforcement and government agencies. Often ex-offender and felon job searches begin with some legal assistance. Contact your local legal aid office to inquire if expungement is an option for you. Legal aid offices often provide low-cost or even no-cost assistance.
I hope this helps.
Are you a felon who is having difficulty finding a job? You can have your questions answered on this blog. Just send your questions to adogzheart2@gmail.com
If you are really serious about getting a job with a criminal record or helping someone you care about get a job, check out this link: From Jail to a Job
A: Hello,
First of all, getting a degree is by no means a waste of time. You are in a much better position than most ex-offenders and felons looking for jobs. I always suggest applying for jobs by sending resumes with well written cover letters. Often this may help to get around the application process.
Expungement may be a good option for you depending on your state. Expungement amounts to a court order effectively sealing a court proceeding and its affects from public view. This would appear that your conviction does not exist. It does, but will only be visible to the court system, law enforcement and government agencies. Often ex-offender and felon job searches begin with some legal assistance. Contact your local legal aid office to inquire if expungement is an option for you. Legal aid offices often provide low-cost or even no-cost assistance.
I hope this helps.
Are you a felon who is having difficulty finding a job? You can have your questions answered on this blog. Just send your questions to adogzheart2@gmail.com
If you are really serious about getting a job with a criminal record or helping someone you care about get a job, check out this link: From Jail to a Job
Thursday, June 3, 2010
NC mom with a NJ felony charge needs job
Q: Hi,
My name is Courtney. I received a charge in 2005 for signing checks. The total was either $400 or $600. I cannot remember without looking at the paperwork which is currently filed away. I spent about 4 1/2 months in the county jail waiting for a court date. Finally when my court date arrived, I was released & sentenced to 1 yr probation w/ fines which was all taken care of. My probation officer allowed me to complete the program early. I believe it was 10 months when I was done. I am really not sure of what the charge is, so I need to know how I can find out what the exact charge is, if it could be expunged & how I can get a job. Please help.
A: Hello Courtney,
The easiest way to get a copy of your criminal record is from your probation officer. If that is not possible, See the link below.
http://www.state.nj.us/njsp/about/serv_chrc.html#instruct
Unfortunately, in the state of New Jersey, there is a ten year waiting period after the completion of your sentence before you can apply for expungement.
As I often suggest for ex-offenders and felons looking for jobs, contact you local One-stop Career center.
Each state has a network of centers that offer a variety of free services that can get him ready for work and assist him in finding employment. In addition, these centers offer training programs that may prepare him for a career. Some services available are:
If you are really serious about getting a job with a criminal record or helping someone you care about get a job, check out this link: From Jail to a Job
My name is Courtney. I received a charge in 2005 for signing checks. The total was either $400 or $600. I cannot remember without looking at the paperwork which is currently filed away. I spent about 4 1/2 months in the county jail waiting for a court date. Finally when my court date arrived, I was released & sentenced to 1 yr probation w/ fines which was all taken care of. My probation officer allowed me to complete the program early. I believe it was 10 months when I was done. I am really not sure of what the charge is, so I need to know how I can find out what the exact charge is, if it could be expunged & how I can get a job. Please help.
A: Hello Courtney,
The easiest way to get a copy of your criminal record is from your probation officer. If that is not possible, See the link below.
http://www.state.nj.us/njsp/about/serv_chrc.html#instruct
Unfortunately, in the state of New Jersey, there is a ten year waiting period after the completion of your sentence before you can apply for expungement.
As I often suggest for ex-offenders and felons looking for jobs, contact you local One-stop Career center.
Each state has a network of centers that offer a variety of free services that can get him ready for work and assist him in finding employment. In addition, these centers offer training programs that may prepare him for a career. Some services available are:
Career planning and counseling
Workshops (Resume Writing, Interviewing Skills, and related topics.)
Computers with internet access and word processing
Daily access to thousands of job listings
Job-related magazines and local newspapers
Job postings and referrals
Printers, fax machines, phones, and copiers for job search use
There are counselors there whose function is helping citizens gain employment. Many of them have experience helping ex-offenders and felons get jobs.
You can find the nearest location of the One Stop Career Center in your local phone book or on the web at: http://www.servicelocator.org
Are you a felon who is having difficulty finding a job? You can have your questions answered on this blog. Just send your questions to adogzheart2@gmail.com.If you are really serious about getting a job with a criminal record or helping someone you care about get a job, check out this link: From Jail to a Job
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
Felon wants to expunge federal and state convictions
Q: The Job Market is Cold Blooded out here. I need help I have lost my Job, my Apartment. When people know that you have a record they will not respect you as a working class person. I was fired so a Chef could get my job. I had been there almost one month. I told the Chef about my record he was like can you pass a Drug test I was sure. I passed. I told him my charge was over 20 years old he was like dont worry about that. The Sous Chef wanted my job for his friend so he had the Chef's boss do a background check and the fired me saying i was not doing my job. Two months later I run into a old co - worker they said I was fired because of my record. It's hard out here.
A: I have good news and bad news. You may have a possibility of having your state record expunged. Often felon job searches begin with some legal assistance. Check with your local legal aid office to see if you are eligible in your state. If possible, you may also get help getting that done there. As far as your federal charges, there is no such thing as the expungement of federal records. You may apply for a federal pardon, but they are rarely given.
Be tough in your job search. Apply to every restaurant you can think of. Even a blind man will hit something if he throws enough rocks.
I'm sorry I couldn't be more helpful.
Are you a felon who is having difficulty finding a job? You can have your questions answered on this blog. Just send your questions to adogzheart2@gmail.com
If you are really serious about getting a job with a criminal record or helping someone you care about get a job, check out this link: From Jail to a Job
A: I have good news and bad news. You may have a possibility of having your state record expunged. Often felon job searches begin with some legal assistance. Check with your local legal aid office to see if you are eligible in your state. If possible, you may also get help getting that done there. As far as your federal charges, there is no such thing as the expungement of federal records. You may apply for a federal pardon, but they are rarely given.
Be tough in your job search. Apply to every restaurant you can think of. Even a blind man will hit something if he throws enough rocks.
I'm sorry I couldn't be more helpful.
Are you a felon who is having difficulty finding a job? You can have your questions answered on this blog. Just send your questions to adogzheart2@gmail.com
If you are really serious about getting a job with a criminal record or helping someone you care about get a job, check out this link: From Jail to a Job
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