Capture Real-World Career Insight & Advice That Will Prep You for The Big Time

I have run across several posts and articles that you may find insightful. Check out http://joblounge.blogspot.com/2006/10/resumes-for-ex-felons.html for resume tips. Also, these articles that offer empathy and support are worth reading: Ex-Felons Find it Hard to Rebuild Their Lives: http://blog.news-record.com/staff/letters/archives/2005/09/exfelons_find_i.html,
Ex-Felons Free to Succeed: http://www.postnewsads.com/linda/new/viewarticles.asp?articleID=134, and Ex-Felons are People Too: http://www.prisonactivist.org/?q=node/view/204.
I hope these are helpful in your quest.

Posted by Ask Seymour on October 20, 2006 1:33 PM

I too am a professional with a criminal record. I had been arrested twice (at the age of 18) and went on to become a mature adult and a professional social worker. After receiving my masters I applied for licensure only to realize that my state would not immediately give me a license. It would be too long a story to explain here, but suffice it to say that after 2 years (at the age of 30), I finally have my license to practice social work.

Posted by KJ on October 24, 2006 4:15 PM

My situation is somewhat more
dire than the previous. I have two felonies, albiet class E they are felonies none the less. I'm 33 and these took place 10 years ago. I just recieved a associate degree and starting on my BS. Am I scarred for life for my youthful indescretions?

Posted by Stephen Harper on November 7, 2006 11:49 AM

It is best to go to a college that has a co-op program. If you already have a Bachelor's degree, apply to graduate school for a Master's. A Bachelor's degree is not enough even for people without a criminal record. In a school that has a co-op record (Northeastern University if one such school) the school has to place you in a job and having a job is part of the program. This will get you the experience and recommendations. Alsom if you apply to graduate schhol, then you make sure you go to a school that gives you a research assistantship to work in a professor's lab. Then the professors can give you recommendations. You have to be outgoing and make friends with some of the faculty and the department administrator. Another possibility is to start your own small business setting up databases or fixing peopl's computers and computer systems, etc. Aim higher, not lower. I wouldn't recommend to anyone to stop at a Bachelor's degree. A Master's degree is entry level. Another possibility is to go to your state Department of Labor and make an appointment with an employment counselor and ask them to send you on referrals. There might be a program in which they certain employers will hire a person with a former conviction who is now rehabilitated if the person has a Labor Department referral. One more idea, which may seem far fetched, is to go with your lawyer back to the judge who convicted you, show who you are now, and try to get a recommendation letter from the judge. Any recommendations that you can send with your job application will be enormously helpful. I am sorry to be so long winded, but I believe you have some options.

Posted by Engineer Age 55 on December 29, 2006 5:44 PM

I have a son in prison. He was convicted of Assault 1, when he was 19. He recieved a min/mandatory sentence of 90 mo's. It was his first offense. He has his H.S. degree. I am not sure if there is any point in getting him started on correspondence classes? I worry it will only lead to more frustration and disappointment. I feel the only classes he can take are in areas that will never consider him hireable. Should I wait? He still doesn't realize how much he'll be discriminated aganinst once he's paid his debt. Are there any suggestions on classes he might take that could prove useful. I was delighted to see so many really useful ideas to help people keep moving on.

Posted by Lois Hopkins on January 11, 2007 5:16 PM

I have something that is of the same. First of all is there a Labor market info that would give some statistical out looks of Ex-Felons being hired with-in a particular type of job Discription.
I have a ASD in Architectual Drafting/Computer Aided Design
I'm a Ex-Felon Seeking a Certificate of Rehbilitated, It has been 7 years since my commitment, I have been activly seeking Employment for a drafting possition with a career consaltent. Out of the seven years I have held a possition as a Landscaping Supervisor For more then a year, I have been applying for other jobs as well such as Repair Tech, Customer Services. I'm Just wondering if my Career choice was a waste of Time because of this dark cloud of my past.

Posted by Thmoas on February 6, 2007 3:29 PM

Does Spherion give a second chance to rehabilitated ex- felons who committed their crime 10 years ago and have never done anything wrong again?

Posted by Joanna on February 14, 2007 2:25 PM

Wow! I am so saddened by this. I am a 29 year old female from Utah who just got out of jail 6 months ago. I have been through 3 previous jobs. They found out about my felony conviction. I have now settled for a call center job which is paying my way through college...I would like to know what you guys think the best field of expertise I should go into so that I can get a degree in that field and my criminal history won't matter? I don't know what to do. You all have accomplished so much and yet you can't gain a decent job. It's sad and here I am heading down the same road. Is it worth it to even try to obtain a college degree? I won't stop, but what are my options also? Good luck to you.

Posted by Annie on February 25, 2007 11:55 AM

I am a 26 year old College Graduate with 2 Misdemeanor Domestic Assault convictions in Virginia, where I am from. I also have what is called a 'Stet' for Sexual Assault in the State of Maryland where I obtained my B.S. degree. The Domestic Assault conviction's involved my Children's mother, whom I am no longer involved. I've never had any extensive jail time(no more than 4 weeks total between charges while awaiting Bond hearing). What I think has been hurting me the most recently is the Felony Sexual Assault that has been placed on a 'Stet'. The explanation I was given to describe a 'Stet' is that I can't be convicted of a crime for a period of time, or it stays on my record. Again, it's NOT on my record as a Conviction, but it is on my record. And, since it is a felony, I am not able to get past alot of Background checks. The 'Alleged' victim never even showed up for the trial, when I stupidly agreed to the 'Stet'. I was 20 years old at the time, and this whole 'Stet' thing was never fully explained to me. I regret ever taking that offer from the State of Maryland.

Posted by Dante on March 16, 2007 11:21 AM

I am in the same boat. I am also a little younger than most of you, but already have found my life ruined. I can't join the Army Special Forces because I can't obtain the proper security clearance. I am a Firefighter/EMT but I can't get a job because I have adjudication withheld on two counts of "Aggravated assault with a deadly weapon without intent to kill", what was actually a practical joke that happened when I was 18. I am 24 now. Sometimes I just feel like giving up because of the seemingly overwhleming odds stacked against people like me. I have done tons of volunteer work at the animal shelter and was even accepted by Big brothers/Big sisters as a mentor. I raised over $2,000 on my own for a 4 year old girl with an inoperable brain tumor. I find myself so sad and demoralized that I can't take the place in society that I want because of this. How can it be right to punish someone their entire life?

Posted by Ken on March 20, 2007 8:08 PM

Ken,
I feel compelled to reply to your posting. I am sure you are extremely frustrated by your situation. The only advise I can give you is to stay on the right path. By the choices you'd LIKE to make, one can tell you ARE a good person. Time will tell and you'll be directed, and rewarded, for your calling. Keep your faith and continue to enjoy the personal satisfaction you get by doing the generous things you do!

Posted by Jackie Vogelsang on March 21, 2007 5:21 PM

I am in the same situation also. I have a misdeameanor from 2003 for trespassing which to make a long story short i went swimming in a partially public/private area. When i was leaving in the public parking lot i rec'd a citation (not arrested a citation!!) for trespassing. well needless to say i have been a manager in retail for 5 yrs and then i worked in Accounts receivable. now i can not obtain employment anywhere. for this its crazy!! they do a BCI and they dont want an explanation they say your empolyment backround is impressive but you have a record!!!! i even went to court to try to get it expunged and i have to wait till Sept 2009!!

Posted by Kristen on June 3, 2007 9:39 PM

I am also in the same boat. Since my misdemeanor conviction I have completed a AAS, BS in computer science and an MBA, however I have been out of work for 6 months now due to corporate downsizing. I have a beautiful wife and two very young children, however now that I have a mortgage, car payments, etc., my wife has been forced to work 60+hr work weeks as a RN just to keep our heads above water. At this point I have lost 4 high paying (6-figure) jobs in the past 6 months due to my background, and am have become emotionally unstable and even suicidal sometimes. Unannounced to my wife and family, I admit here the only thing that has kept me in touch with reality is my kids even though its hard for me to look them in the eyes knowing I cannot provide for them. Even if I were to apply for some below-poverty type salary working in a fast food, I still don't think I would be hired even though my crime was over 8 years ago. I feel I have been entrapped by my own prison.

Posted by E R on June 6, 2007 7:11 PM

Well, I recently moved to Oklahoma from Florida. Around 7 years ago, I plead to guilty to Grand Theft and Burglary of a Conveyance. Well, here is how mess up the laws is in Florida. When you see the word burglary, it as if I broke in a home. Well, that is not the case. The term Burglary of a Conveyance has nothing to do with breaking into a home. The fact is that I punch out a car window. Since the car is mobile, the officer charged me with a felony instead of criminal mischief which is a misdemeanor. It?s as if the officer wanted to ruin my life. The Grand theft happened 20 days prior .Well, I got a job immediately right after both incidents, hired an attorney and the judge ?Withheld adjudication? on both of the felony charges. That was a surprise to everyone in the courtroom. But I really turn myself around. Well, that was in 2000, now in 2007, I have completed two college degrees and I am not disclosing I am from Florida, because I don?t want Employers to find my arrest record. I change all of my work history from Florida to Oklahoma. I wanted to know if it is true the it?s illegal for Employers to check past 10 years. Also, I read how California is a Safe haven for people like me because of the time and the fact I wasn?t technically convicted. If this doesn?t work, Well maybe I need to go to Canada, Any feedback would be great.
Real deal

Posted by realdeal on June 10, 2007 11:31 AM

For those of you with misdemeanors, do what I'm going to do. MOVE TO MASSACHUSETTS. In Massachusetts, by law, employers CAN NOT OBTAIN OR USE ANY INFORMATION ABOUT MISDEMEANORS OLDER THAN 5 YEARS. Also, in Washington State, employers can't ask about ANY crime older than ten years, including felonies. Pull up a City of Boston employment application and read about the "will not discriminate based on ex-offender status" clause. There IS hope, you might just have to move to another state to get it.

Posted by Carter on June 12, 2007 8:10 PM

I know how all of you feel. I was expelled my senior year of high school because I had gotten arrested along with several friends and was being charged with felonies for breaking and entering. Massachusetts has a law that allows schools to do this. I understand if it had anything to do with school, but it did not, and it was the most horrible feeling not being allowed to graduate. I let my family down, my grandmother in particular, and myself. I never took anything seriously up until then, and learned my lesson greatly. Getting arrested was enough, it scared me onto the right path. But i was never given a second chance. The majority of the people I had gotten into trouble with ended up with just probation, continued with out a finding, or just plain getting it all dismissed. We were all young and had no criminal records. I hadn't been involved in all of what they had done, but i was charged with all of it, and had to go to court for it for a year and a half. In that year and a half I never once got into any other kind of trouble, recieved my G.E.D. and planned on going to college. But the day came when it was all going to be decided, and the judge disliked me simply because I was female, or so I was told. She came down on me in the courtroom, saying things like "Your mother can't help you now, your boyfriend can't help you now, your life is ruined." I was so upset and angry, that one person can decide your whole life. I know I made a mistake, I had learned my lesson immediately, and had just wanted to get on with my life. But instead i was given 6 months in jail, probation, restitution, and on top of it all a horrible record with felonies. She would accept nothing less. I was absolutely terrified. I was 19 and my life was pretty much over. I spent 3 months in jail, and was released on house arrest for the next 3 months. Jail was the loneliest place I've ever been to. It wasn't scary like on T.V., just depressing. I think I cried every day. A little less than a year later I went to college, just for a semester because I found out I was going to have a baby. My boyfriend of 3 years now was there for me through all of this, and now we have a 6 month old son. They mean everything to me. I hate thinking that my son will someday know how much of a failure his mother is considered, because of a few stupid mistakes she made when she was 17. I never and would never hurt anyone but the breaking and entering is considered a violent crime. I don't think a judge would seal it because of how many things they charged me for. I'd like to work with animals, I feel that is my calling, and am planning on going back to college. My boyfriend has a pretty good job, and I'm working also, but I'd like to someday have a "real" job, a job I enjoy and most importantly a job where I am able to provide the best for my son. I thought about moving to Canada, but they are strict about letting people with criminal records in to live. I just hope going to college isn't all for nothing.

Posted by malamar on June 13, 2007 3:02 AM

Here's an organization that did a state by state breakdown of all the criminal records laws, etc. New York is the best, and Colorado is the worst. Go to this website and look at the state report card to find out where you stand and help you decide where to move to. The lower the score (which measured the number of roadblocks) in each category, the more rights you have. http://www.lac.org/lac/main.php?view=state

Posted by Carter on June 14, 2007 6:51 AM

I am a 29 year old female who has a criminal history that dates back 6 years ago when I was 23 years old. I have two felonies that is keeping me from getting a job. I have an Associate Degree in Applied Science and is currently working on my Bachelor's Degree. I have read many of your stories and see that there is hope to finding a job even with a criminal record. I wish someone can help me before i just totally give up.

Posted by Really depressed on June 29, 2007 1:50 PM

I am a convicted felon in Sacramento, CA. I have recently become a Microsoft Certified Office Specialist. I am also a certified Web Designer. I have an extensive arrest record. I have completely changed my life. I have not been arrested since 1994, and yet I am unable to find employment. I read the comment about having a proven work history. I have that, I worked my last job for 15 months but unfortunately the business closed. There was no lapse in employment, and the job before that I worked for 8 years. A proven track record seems to be totally irrelevent to employers. They say there are convict friendly employers, but I have yet to find one. Isn't there any resources to help those of us who really are reformed gain employment. Have we all wasted our time learning new skills in order to become productive members of society?

Posted by Terri on July 1, 2007 3:01 PM

I have an arrest record It still haunts me as my major in college was Early Childhood Education. I still have been refused employment at several centers I wonder why you say move to massachusetts its been two years since my arrest I had it expunged and for no benefit. any suggestions?

Posted by glorya on July 6, 2007 6:27 PM

There are 14 states where public employers (government) can't discriminate against you. There are 5 states where public AND private employers have to follow strict rules. Read the attachment. http://www.lac.org/toolkits/standards/Fourteen_State_Laws.pdf

Posted by Carter on July 13, 2007 11:33 PM

I am in the same situation. I had adjudication withheld on a battery with a deadly weapon. I can not find a job. It serves no purpose whatsoever for the legal system to do a withhold and it still come up on a background check. I believe the whole reason the judge did the withhold is so the person does not have a conviction on their record. But in Florida the state law does not allow expungment or records to be sealed for a violent crime even though a person has no prior criminal record. I have lost out on 4 six figure jobs because of this. I might as well been convicted b/c i am getting the same treatment. I am now working for myself which is a good thing but it is hard sometimes to makes ends meet just b/c the law in Florida does not view a withhold any different for certain offenses.

Posted by Remy on July 20, 2007 6:30 AM

I don't have a criminal record but however, a feel that some email letters might haunt me for the rest of my life. I took a job out of state, and they treated me harsh and unfair. I moved back to my current state. In retaliation, I sent some nasty email letters and I am afraid they will forward these letters around and damage my reputation. Everywhere else I worked I have excellent reference letters and I have a B. S. in Business Managemnt, and a M.S. in Recreation Management and currently obtaining a teaching certificate. Should I worry about the email letters.

Posted by Anonymous on July 20, 2007 6:50 PM

I have a bachelor's degree in Business Administration and a Master' Degree in Educational Leadership (with honors). I have completed my coursework for my doctorate, but have been unable to finish due to recovery from accident injuries. I am now back in the job market after resxigning from my job as a school admionistrator in March 2004. Here's the rub, I have a criminal record (Charges) including false imprisonment and drug paraphernalia/cocaine possession. My criminal record with Miami-Dade County has NO CONVICTIONS. My dispositions contain no guilty pleas, not finding of guilt and no nolo contendere pleas. Does anyone out there know if these charges alone could hinder me from finding a job?

Posted by Elston B. Davis on August 2, 2007 3:24 PM

You can also sue in civil court to clear your criminal record. You can apply for a temporary injunction stating ireparable harm and the harm that continues to occur and your criminal record is a violation of your 4th, 5th, 14th Amendment.

Posted by Leah on August 9, 2007 6:58 PM

California is very forgiving with regards to criminal records. There is however the issue of suing in criminal court, it involves shifting the burden back on the state you were convicted in. If an attorney won't do it look at the rules for civil procedure in your state. You're asking for a Temporary Injunction and an An Order to show cause why you're criminal record should be released. You also have to state it's a violation of your 4, 5, and 14th amendment rights.

Posted by Leah on August 9, 2007 7:06 PM

hello i am very nervous, because about 2 years ago the police had given me a warning for shoplifting when i was 12,and they had taken down my adress and name and evrything else and now that i am 14 i had gotten cought by police while smoking a ciggarate also they had again taken my name and evrything else, even though it was not me it was one of my friends, i want to know from any one who knows these situations properly, if this will effect me when i am trying to apply for a job, and will it stay on my criminal record forever. and yes, i have completely changed my ways since i was from now on, please could someone tell mewhat i need to know thanks. i live in the uk, and am 14 years old.

Posted by needhelpksd on August 11, 2007 3:30 PM

Hi folks. I have a misdemeanor from driving under the influence about a year ago. I have my AS, working towards my BS, and am thinking about starting my own business in pre-employment screening, of all things. I've finished most of my business plan, but what if I'm unable to be self-employed because of my damn record? Oh, thanks for the links, Carter.

Posted by Holland on September 9, 2007 12:10 PM

Sure thing Holland. Since you're doing a business plan, include this http://www.proficientinvestigations.com/fcrabystate.pdf in your plan to show you know your stuff.

Posted by Carter on September 10, 2007 6:35 PM

It's in there, Carter, thank you.

Posted by Holland on September 14, 2007 5:35 AM

I have a 46 year old brother who is raising his two sons. About 9 years ago his wife starting running around on him, so she decided she wanted to live in their home with her boyfriend, so she made up charges of abuse against my brother and even admitted to the judge later that she lied. Anyhow he went thru house arrest and etc even though he was innocent. People from all walks of life sent letters on his behalf. In fact while he was on house arrest he had to call the police because his ex was calling late at night harassing him on the phone. The cop came to my brothers house and she called while he was there and he answered the phone and she started going off on him. She was also responsible for breaking their son's arm. But in Indiana if the wife accuses her husband of abuse thats all it takes, they do not check out the wife or anything. He needs to find a new job, the place he has been at for thirty years is closing and he cannot find a job because of his record. What can he do, he still has to provide for his two sons.

Posted by j lynk on September 24, 2007 4:43 PM

Is there room in this boat for one more? I was convicted with assault on a female 2 years ago. I came home from a conference to find out my girlfriend at the time was cheating on me. I was outraged and in the heat of the moment I slapped her. I wasn't arrested but was directed by the court to complete a domestic violence program and afterwards received a PJC. Since then I received my Masters degree in Chemistry but have been less than successful in getting a job in my field. I have all these good things going for me but as soon as I utter the fact I put a hand on someone who cheated on me and broke my heart I get denied yet another great job opportunity. I'm not a murderer or a theif, I just made a mistake and it seems that it is going to haunt me forever.

Posted by jithomps on October 2, 2007 7:50 PM

I think of the criminal justice system as a type of baptism. But, in this form of baptism, the preacher doesn't lift you out and say "You're forgiven for your sins. Go forth and sin no more". Instead, he holds you under and tries to drown you. There is no forgiveness in this country. It should be a law that the collateral effects of a conviction must be fully explained to a defendant. I.E. he must be advised, in writing, that he will never again be able to find gainful employment, that all his dreams are completely destroyed, and that he will be a sub caste of the human race from that point forward. The attorneys make it seem like no big deal to plea bargain someone into a misdemeanor conviction when in fact, a misdemeanor is just as bad to an employer as capital murder. All these collateral consequences aren't explained in the plea bargains, and the attorneys take the $5000 you paid them and simply don't try to really defend you. In all honesty, they really should take a hot iron and brand the letter 'C' on convicts' foreheads. It would be much more humane.

Posted by Carter on October 4, 2007 8:30 AM

Per a previous post that around 64million people are in similiar situations it is overwhelming! We all deserve to better our knowledge and ourselves. I am not sure if any of you have ever considered your own business, but for those of you who are serious about making a change, contact me and I can advise you how to create a residual income!! apontious@earthlink.net

Posted by Andrea on October 15, 2007 11:24 PM

depending on the crime, anyone with a felony can have it removed with the state of convicition. first go to the state's web site and look up courts.
you will find the link to download the necessary forms and paths to follow. good luck to all who must clean up a mess in order to move on!

Posted by tattoodtim on October 18, 2007 1:29 AM

I currently have a BA in marketing and an AS in computer science. I have recently decided to pursue a teaching career and am applying for my credential in the state of California. I do have a criminal record.

1. Minor (17) in possesion of a marajuana pipe.

2. Minor (18) in consumption of alcohol

3. Dui dropped to a wet reckless (age 21)

I am now 28 years old, so all of these happened YEARS ago, but are on my record. Do I have anything to worry about in getting credential clearance with these minor offenses on my record, as long as I disclose them?

These all are just misdemeanors.

Thanks,

Brian

Posted by brian on November 13, 2007 2:55 PM

I was arrested for petit larseny when I was 16(I'm 19 now). The case was a misdemeanor in NY and I was able to get an ACD for the case and now my record is sealed. I am now a college student and I'm thinking about pursuing a career as a registered nurse, but I don't know if I will be able to obtain a license. Does anyone know if I will be able to become a licensed registered nurse because of my background?

Posted by Stephanie on November 16, 2007 3:05 PM

Brian, I had a similar problem while trying to obtain teaching credentials in California. I had my record expunged with the help of a local law firm. On their website, they also have a useful article on how to become a teacher with a criminal record. You can find it at:

http://www.recordgone.com/articles/criminal_record_becoming_teacher.htm

Best of luck!

Posted by James Wolf on November 20, 2007 1:04 AM

Yes, I have misdemeanor arrests from 1989 for disorderly conduct and vandalism as a younger person. In the almost twenty years, I have served honorably in the military and obtained a college degree in the field of criminology. I am now working toward a Master's in European studies. Right after college, I had a hard time getting any employment of any kind, despite my belief that this field might be more forgiving. I could not even get a job at fast food restaurants! I cannot even study in Europe because most countries won't give student visa to people with ANY criminal record.

I know very well about social stigma of criminal convictions from a sociological standpoint. We can, indeed, DO something about this, but we MUST form some kind of group. The proliferation of criminal data bases around the world means the resurrection of the old scarlet letter. Soon, I can tell you, if you have any kind of criminal record you will not be able to travel, have freedom of movement, rent apartments, as well as be discriminated in employment. If you are still interested in forming a group for those of us with "scarlet letters" - count me in!
First - for the rest of you, you must overcome your own fears about your own record!

Posted by KittyPie on December 3, 2007 6:30 PM

This is so sad to hear all the disparity in the number of people who have made errors of judgment early in life and seem to be penalized forever.

My question is, how do all of you know that job denials are based on your criminal records? I have been in a competitive market and sometimes very good , upstanding, no criminal record candidates still did not get the job. Are propspective employers providing you a written reason why employment was denied?

I have a misdemeaner shoplifting ($20) from 28 years ago and have had a successful career. Reading all of this I am frighten because now there are all the public records and data bases and I am seeking employment. Is this what I can expect? I too was misguided by an attorney and led to believe a misdeameanor was nothing to be concerned about... It is the only misjudgment since 19yrs old.

Are the applications stating "Have you ever been convicted of any crime" or do they say ever been convicted of a felony or convicted of crime in the past 10 yrs?

I'm in Texas and it's strict here I think...what can I do about getting non-disclosure, sealed, expunged.... I wasn't offer adjuntication but now they have a program for Texas Fresh Start..do I qualify?

Posted by Sue on January 8, 2008 4:58 AM

I have the same story and Texas is harsh. I was charged for theft a Class C misdemeanor. I never stole anything, but I worked at a retail shop and my manager gave us permission to ring items up cheaper than they were. Still wrong, but I was only 18. so I got charged with a Class C and was told that if I did my probation it would not be on my record. Well I worked as a bartender until I was 23 and then went on to apply at other jobs. I was interviewed and even given a schedule from Target and then I got a letter in the mail stating that I couldn't work there due to my criminal record, I got letters from Lowe's, Wal-Greens and was even hired at a a call center and was told to leave after my first day due to my criminal record, which by the way I put on my application. So I worked food industry jobs to help pay for college until I landed a office job where I proceeded to get promoted. I was in charge of other employees , training, all deposits everything.

During this time I hired a lawyer to help me expunge my record, a year later in court I was informed that I couldn't in Texas...by the way my lawyer was a joke.

So now I am almost done with college and moved to Houston to finish school in Food & Nutrition and am in the search for a job, but I am so terrified and stressed that I won't get one because of my criminal record. It is so frustrating, because I have never done anything wrong before and after this. It's so hard to explain to my in-laws and friends why it's hard for me to get a job. It's embarrassing and stressful.

It has made me lose complete faith in our system, on top of that, it says that I am African American on my criminal record when I am actually White. Obviously they didn't do a background check on the person in charge of that department because they are an idiot.

Posted by Jes on March 10, 2008 6:15 PM

great blog - good info

Gary

Posted by gary on March 28, 2008 3:24 PM

I too am in the same boat with most of you, and it is sad to say that I think we are sinking.
I had been working with at risk youth for 5 years along with majoring in social work before I got my first charge. Unfortunately, it would be one that would trigger others.

I was convinced to plead guilty to a misdemeanor trespassing charge and was told that it wouldn't have any real consequences on my life or work. Wrong! It did and I lost my job. I became really depressed (still am) and started drink and two misdemeanor dui's later here I am. Like so many I am depressed, scared, and worse of self conscience about who I am, but that has to stop. We need to think outside the box ! I say that because we are all educated and that means most of us are thinkers, and what do thinkers to best;solve problems. If MADD can unify out of anger, so can we. I have given this scenario long thought and like many I want to start a non-profit organization to get us back on the road. If you are interested in net-working contact me......daninfcc@hotmail.com.

Posted by Daniel on April 5, 2008 2:24 AM

I've got a horror story. In 1999 I rented a hotel room, I accidentily dropped a ciggerette, it burned the carpet. Me thinking nothing of it (comparing it to spilled wine etc etc) figured they have my credit card they can bill etc etc. 2 years later I get pulled of for a routine traffic violation and voila I was under arrest for "mischief". When I appeared in court the judge could not believe that I was actually arrested for such a petty crime considering I had my Credit card on file with the hotel (which I believe is SPECIFICALLY for these situations) The crown withdrew charges I paid for a new carpet (restitution) and it was supposed to be over. At the time, I was working for a fairly large telecom company and but could never find better employment, I went to interviews and always go turned down right after the Criminal record check but nobody ever told me why. I'd answer the question "Have you ever been convicted of a criminal offence for which youu have not been granted a pardon?" with a clear "no". Apparently this answer was innacurate. At first I thought maybe my lack of post-secondary credentials was holding me back from getting the career I wanted, so I went back to school, 3years 1 diploma and 35k later I come to find out..... The court clerk had entered the verdict as a conviction on my criminal record. Here I am parading around town looking like the biggest liar, all the big companies I've applied for jobs with probably have this fact on there record, so my reputation is pretty much ruined. I found my court documents proving that I was never convicted of anything, 9 years later though, is there anything I can do? I went to regional police department and they say this correction could take up to 14months. Ive lost 9 years of potential career growth already. The frustration has evolved to depression, my life feels wasted over a ciggerette burn. Any advice would be greatly appreciated as Im all out of hope.

Posted by aj on April 7, 2008 10:46 PM

I've been worried about this for quite some time. After reading what everyone else, I really don't feel any better. I have been working for 6 years now to finish my college degree in education. In one night, I may have messed up my entire life's aspirations.

On that one night, I was charged with Burglary, Simple Assualt 2 counts, and Kidnapping all as felonies. I was told after consulting with an attorney that I was looking at a max sentence of 44 1/2 years in prison, but informed that I probably wouldn't get that.

The problem I ran into was that there were 5 people there who had all been into trouble before and knew just what to say to make me look horrible. Eventually one person in the issue stepped forward and told the truth.

As a result I was offered a plea agreement, they dropped the Kidnapping & one of the Simple Assault charges. They also changed the other Burglary to an intent to destroy property misdemeanor and they changed the other simple assault to simple assault as a misdemeanor.

When I found out that I would plead guilty to two misdemeanors, I immediately called the state board of education to see what my status would be for gaining my teaching certification. They said that I should be alright considering that they were misdemeanors, I really hope they were correct, but the way my luck goes probably not.

I was working at another job one I'd worked at for a few summers and I even informed them of my arrest prior to beginning my job that summer. At the end of the year, they informed me that I would not be allowed to return because of my criminal record.

It was suggested to me that I secure all final dispositions from my court case. Does anyone out there know what this means?

Posted by Charlie on April 13, 2008 5:08 AM

I can understand whatever one is going through, I was charged with Unlawful Compensation (Adjudication withheld) currently on three years probation, which is a felony. I worked for Agency for Health Care Administration and befriended a provider, which business came to help my mother from being placed in a nursing home. The provider was a very good con artist and I was a very good SUCKER. She lead me to believe that I could confide in her as a friend. She knew all of my personal business, in which I was going through with my mother and son. My son was started getting into trouble, he got a record and then a year later he received another charge. She advised me that I should go ahead and payout his probation fees, then I explained to her that I do not have that kind of oney. So, she offered to give me the money to pay for it (It was a check of course ($100.00), I advised her that because of the kind of work I do I could not be gifted money; therefore, I would pay her back. Then a couple months later, lended me another $100.00( I was very reluctant not to cash the check because it had "REFER" on it. I never referred her anyone, if someone asked me about the person that was taking care of my mother. I would advised them to contact her agency, that way I would not be a part of the referral process. I called her in regards of the last check and asked why did she write it she stated that she made a mistake on it, and that if anything comes up that she would explain the situation. I founded out that she had been arrested for Fraud over $100,000.in which I was not aware of. I founded out that APD had asked her to stop billing in May of 2007 she stopped and then started rebilling in August, 2007. I had really talked to her that much since she had stopped taking care of my mother. She told me that she over billed and would have to discontinue her service to my mother and others. Advised he to repay the money back as requested and she stated that she would fight for her rights. Fighting for her rights got me investigated, they thought I gave her the people names, ssn, address and other information. Like with other providers in which I helped in the past, I only provided her with eligibility updates only if she could provide me with the person anme, ssn, and date of birth, and/or recipient id. Finding a job is hard, prior to my sentence I obtain a OPS position with the State of Florida this June I would be here for a year. I also have a fulltime working at a fast food restaurant in which the interviewer was very understanding. It has been difficult for looking for other jobs in which I know I would be successful in, This may I would have graduated with a Bachelors in Health Service Administration and I also have a Associate in H.S.A. I am thinking about continuing schooling, but I am not sure if I should or not whether it is really worth it. People who know me know that I am not a criminal and i am not capable of committing such a crime . However, the courts saw fit that I should plea as a convicted felony. Life sucks, but I will continue to place my life in GODS hands and I know what man thinks is impossible will become a reality. When that day comes I will be back on this blog to let everyone that I made it. My rayers and thoughts are with all of you that have made a mistake in your life. Never put your trust in man, but in GOD. Continue to place GOD ahead of your life.

Posted by PamelaK on April 15, 2008 10:35 AM

At least it's comforting to see so many people in the same situation as myself. It is difficult to find comfort for this elsewhere.

I got into trouble a couple of times as a youth, alcohol and gun misdemeanors. And now 9 years later, I have turned my life around and am a hard working professional. Yet it is still such an uphill battle to get employed in my industry.

I have paid my debt and feel that I deserve forgiveness, yet there is none in sight. We need to stand up and support legislation to prevent employers from doing this. The world has changed, information is cheap, and a criminal background will haunt you indefinitely. There needs to be protection in place to keep us from being branded for life for our youthful indiscretions.

Posted by Depressed on April 28, 2008 10:19 PM

I am a 57 years old African-American male who lives in Washington, DC. I have been convicted of several crimes including murder. I used drugs for 25 years, preferably heroin, and stopped in 1994. I smoked cigarettes for 32 years and stopped completely in 1996. I served over 26 years in prison and was released for not only owning up to my crime but also for exceptional superior program achievements. I received 5 college degrees (professor and classroom instruction, not correspondence): An AA in business management; AAS in accounting technology; AAS management technology; AA in Urban studies; and BA in Urban Studies while being the Valedictorian. Currently, I am only a few months from receiving my MBA. I currently hold a 3.5 GPA at a school which doesn?t allow below a 3.0.
I have worked as a GED teacher for a non-profit organization. I also teach stress and anger management for the same organization. I was vastly under paid and the New Executive Director there is not only inexperienced, dislike ex-cons, but a real [expletive].
My resume is much more inclusive than what I have entered in this statement. But what I have entered should be more than enough for validity and experience. Maybe I should go into criminal justice as a consultant rather than social justice? I need some help and I ain?t too proud to beg!
Respectfully Submitted,

Mr. Super Reformed

Posted by Mr. Super Reformed on May 6, 2008 7:07 PM

I was charged with simple assault 5 years ago and found guilty. I had never ever been in trouble before nor have I been in trouble since. I too find it impossible to find employment. It's sad and painful. I don't know why we can't go through some sort of program that checks up on us after a certain time period and will allow the records to be expunged automatically. Time served. Some of us make a mistake once and learn from it.

Posted by Misery on May 8, 2008 1:26 PM

Hi everyone. I have read the posts and understand everyone's frustration. I have a conviction for the lowest form of misdemeanor in my state (tx class C) for a marijuana charge. I have a B.A. in psychology and I am almost done with a M.S. in counseling. I can not obtain employment due to this charge, even at the local grocery store, and I will soon hold a masters degree. You are not alone in your plight. Expungement in my state can only take place after 5 years. With around 50% of the population age 18-26 having smoked marijuana it amazes me how callous and unforgiving employers can be.

Posted by mike davis on May 8, 2008 1:30 PM

Any info please email me. My wife is entering her BA program in florida for education to become an elementry school teacher. What kind of road blocks do we have in store? Are ther things we can do now to prepare for them? She has 2 seven year old charges 1 misd. pot charge and a felony grand theft.
A hopeful message though is that I too have a record a long record and have been to prison a couple of times. I got out got straight 7 years ago and got into the union elevator trade with my record and no college education and make 70K in florida. look into it we're an international union.

Posted by bryan on May 20, 2008 7:21 PM

It appears there are many of us who have made mistakes and then cleaned up our acts. This is not fair and I want to know how we can fix it! I entered a pretrial intervention program for first time offenders to get my charge dropped and I then had my record expunged. Well that does not matter when you are a teacher. The reason I when back to school to be a teacher was because of my arrest. I wanted to help kids like me find hope through education. Well as I write these words, I have tears in my eyes. I graduated recently and am now applying to each of my surrounding counties. I get a big fat no everywhere I go. I even had one school board tell me I pretty much could not step foot in one of their schools. What bugs me the most is I am the kid the public school systems are supposed to be trying to save, I know how to teach and support society's children. I was poor and lived in many of the situations most teachers have only seen on a Lifetime movie. I am a survivor which I feel makes me more qualified. I want to get things changed. How are we supposed to tell teenagers who have been in trouble to pick themselves back up and keep going to school? Many of them know they will face this kind of discrimination on top of any other discrimination they already endure. This is part of the reason our country breeds drug dealers and career criminals. We need to give people a reason to keep going in a positive direction. I will be taking action on this matter if anyone has any more information that they feel would be helpful please post it here. Good luck to you all and do not give up it is what they want.

Posted by Teacher on June 6, 2008 5:45 PM

WOW...one mistake in 43 years, a resume that reads like a book, college educated, all the skills to be qualified to fry Chicken or flip burgers but NOT. A simple question. "do you have a felony record"...YES...the look in peoples eyes when they are interviewing you tells the whole story. No need to say anything else because that is all they heard and will hear from that point on. This is really hard for me and I get really depressed, cry alot. But in the end what do you do...Quit....NOT that would be to easy and mean that the system won. No matter how hard it is I refuse to let them win.

Posted by ssssgo on June 23, 2008 10:47 PM

I am in the same situation. About 7 years ago when I was 13, I was charged with shoplifting as a misdemeanor. I believe my crime was expunged. Does anyone know if when applying for a job and the application asks, "Have you ever been convicted of a felony or misdemeanor" If I can answer "NO" if my crime was expunged? If it was expunged, will jobs still be able to pull this information up? I understand that it will stay FOREVER on your CRIMINAL INFORMATION RECORD (CIB) but will clear from the CIRCUIT COURT ACCESS (WCCA).
I've learned from my past mistakes and feel like this will haunt me forever. I am studying to become a RN and afterwards get my masters to become a Nurse Practictioner but wonder if all will be worth it since Health Fields are strict when it comes to cargivers and background checks. What should and can I do? PLEASE HELP!

Posted by Hopeful on June 25, 2008 4:24 AM