Facing criminal charges can be a deeply stressful experience, raising countless questions. One significant concern is the potential impact on your employment. At The Law Office of Mike Howard, we understand the worry this creates, and we want to assure you that having legal support and understanding your options can significantly improve your situation.
The Reality of the Impact:
Here’s why criminal charges can pose a challenge to your employment prospects.
- Background Checks: Most employers in Dallas conduct background checks as part of the hiring process. These checks can reveal pending charges or convictions, which may raise red flags for employers, especially in industries requiring trust and security.
- Employer Discretion: Though Texas law prohibits discrimination based solely on an arrest, employers in the state have at-will employment, meaning they can generally make hiring decisions based on various factors, including criminal history, at their discretion.
Mitigating the Impact:
Fortunately, there are ways to navigate this difficult situation:
- Seek Legal Counsel: An experienced attorney can advise you on your legal options, explore potential defenses, and guide you through the legal process.
- Be Proactive with Employers: While not obligated to disclose charges before an offer, if you’re comfortable, consider having an open and honest conversation with potential employers after receiving an offer. Explain the situation, emphasize your qualifications, and demonstrate your commitment to resolving the charges.
- Focus on Your Skills and Experience: During your job search, highlight your strengths, skills, and experience to showcase your value as an employee and potentially overshadow the charges.
- Explore Expungement: Depending on the nature of the charges and the outcome of your case, you may be eligible for expungement, which seals your criminal record, making it inaccessible to most employers.
Remember:
- Don’t despair: Facing charges does not define you. With the right legal support and proactive approach, you can overcome this challenge and secure employment opportunities.
- Seek Guidance: An experienced Dallas criminal justice attorney can provide comprehensive legal advice and advocate for your rights throughout the process.
We partner with you to ensure that you understand the legal process and your options. Most importantly, we customize a plan to take away your anxiety and get you back to living your life. If you want to learn more or begin to discuss your case with our team, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
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