Will A Criminal Conviction Affect My Employment?

Facing criminal proceedings can be a stressful experience. The consequences often extend beyond the courtroom, potentially impacting your career and future. In Ohio, being charged with a crime can create significant hurdles in your professional life, which is why seeking the assistance of a defense attorney is so critical. At The VanNoy Law Firm, we understand what’s at stake and work diligently to protect your rights and your future. A criminal charge can negatively affect your career by:

• Limiting job opportunities, especially in licensed professions.
• Creating a permanent record that future employers can see.
• Damaging your professional reputation.

Can Employers Ask About My Criminal Record in Ohio?

Private employers in Ohio are generally permitted to ask about a job applicant’s criminal history. There are currently no statewide laws that prohibit private companies from including questions about past convictions on their initial job applications. 

What is Ohio’s “Ban the Box” Law?

Ohio has a “ban the box” law, but it only applies to public employers, such as state agencies, county and city governments and other local public entities. This law prohibits employers from asking about your criminal record on the initial job application. While they cannot ask at the beginning of the hiring process, they can inquire about your criminal history later, such as during an interview or before making a conditional job offer. This gives you an opportunity to present your qualifications and make a good impression before your record is discussed.

Does the Relevance of a Crime Affect Job Prospects?

Employers may consider whether an applicant’s criminal conviction is directly relevant to the job’s duties. For example, a conviction for a financial crime like embezzlement would be highly relevant for an accounting position. Policies that create a blanket ban on hiring anyone with a criminal record could be seen as discriminatory if they disproportionately affect certain protected groups.

What Can I Do to Mitigate the Impact on My Future Career Prospects?

If you are facing a criminal charge, there are steps you can take to protect your career prospects. The most important action is to address the criminal case head-on with the help of an experienced attorney. Here are some other strategies to consider:

• Be Honest: Never lie about your criminal history on a job application. Being caught in a lie can lead to immediate disqualification or termination if you’ve already been hired.
• Consider Public Employers: Thanks to Ohio’s “ban the box” law, applying for public sector jobs can give you a better chance to showcase your skills before your criminal history is reviewed.
• Seek Legal Counsel: A trustworthy criminal defense attorney can be your greatest asset. They can try to have your charges reduced or even dismissed, which can significantly lessen the impact on your employment.

Protect Your Future With The VanNoy Firm

Navigating the complexities of a criminal case while trying to protect your career requires professional legal guidance. At The VanNoy Law Firm, we are dedicated to providing individualized representation to seek the best possible outcome for our clients. We recognize the stakes and will work tirelessly to defend your rights. If you are concerned about how a criminal conviction could affect your employment, don’t wait. Contact us today for a consultation.