Hello,

My name is Wayne. I am a 31 year old black male, married with two children. I live in Chesapeake, VA and I had a felony charge on drug possession in 1995. I never served any time and my attorney told me it was best to plead guilty. I make no excuses and I was indeed innocent. I was in the wrong place at the wrong time. I had no fight left in me and my mom was strained by attorney fees.

In any case, here I was working for a company for 8 years. They folded and now I am out there in the cold. No one will hire me because of my past history. I have never been in trouble since that time. I married my high school sweetheart and we have two beautiful children. I am currently working 2 jobs that do not even pay me bi-weekly what my one job paid me weekly. My marriage is suffering and we cannot even afford to send my son, Wayne, Jr to daycare. I just want the opportunity to take care of my family and be a man. My mom is a woman of faith and keeps me in prayer. My wife works for a dental office, but we are now drowning. I just want to work. I want a career for myself first and to provide for my family. I feel lost and my self worth is very low. My mom has tried to fill the gap because I have never asked her for anything, but she is struggling herself. I want to go back to school, but I have to work. I feel like I am between a rock and a hard place. I work hard and give my all. I just want the chance to prove myself. I know that God has a future for me, but with society closing every door in my face, I am doubting that my wife, children and mom, who is my greatest inspiration will not be proud of me. Please, help me. I just want to do an honest days work that will provide for my family and make me feel like I have something to contribute. I am not a statistic and want to prove all the naysayers wrong.

My mom found your website and so here I am. My life is not an accident and I do not want to give up. My dad was never in my life. After he and my mom divorced, he pretty much had nothing to do with my brother and me. I am scarred by that, and I will never do that to my children. My wife and I are now talking about separation and I cannot even concentrate on that because I realize I have to do something for myself. I could easily pick up and move to Charlotte NC with my mom, but that means leaving my children and I just cannot do that. They need me and I need them. I am willing to train while I work. I just want an employer to look at me and say there is something special there. I will give my shirt off my back for others and I know that God honors that. I have tried everything I know, I cannot and will not lie on applications, but sure once they see the conviction, my resume goes in the trash. I have primarily used the internet to apply for jobs, and my email is flooded with junk mail and companies preying on people like me who are desperate. I am not looking for a get rich quick scheme, but a future. I need someone to believe in me and help me to walk through the right doors. I hope you can help me as you have helped others.

Respectfully,

Wayne

Hello Wayne,

I’m sorry you are having so much trouble. I guess the good part is that you have a job. Many don’t. I suggest that you check out the nearest One Stop Career center. Each state has a network of centers that offer a variety of free services that can get you ready for work and assist you in finding employment. In addition, these centers offer training programs that may prepare you 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.

I am surprised that more ex-offenders and felons looking for jobs don’t take advantage of these free services. There also counselors there to help guide you through the job search process. Many of the counselors have experience working with ex-offenders and felons.

You can find the center nearest you at this site:

http://www.servicelocator.org/Search/etaSearchOffice.asp?zip=&city=chesapeake&state=VA&proximity=25&search=Search

I hope this helps

Are you an ex-offender who has a question about finding a job with a criminal record? You could have your question answered right here. Email your question to: BelievePublications@comcast.net.

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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Hello,

My name is John. I am writing you for help. I made bad choice in my life that lead me to a path of drugs and alcohol and then trouble with the law 2001-2006. I always work under these problem,but since a lost my job this past June, 2009 due to down-size in my company. Since then I had not 1 but 2,3,4,5 job offers and because of my record they wouldn’t hire me or even talk to me after the background check came back with felony conviction, I would love to move back to Washington, DC and work again could you help me or point me to a point of contact of anyone who could me. I live in a small town in CT, and help is limited here. I am looking for work any where in the northeast. I have tired so many people for help they say to me good luck and brush me off.

John

Hello John,

I wish there was an easy solution to your situation. A suggestion that I make to all ex-offenders and felons looking for jobs is to always be honest. Often those with criminal records have the temptation to be less than honest when applying for jobs hoping that they can slip by. When background checks come back they appear to be dishonest.

Without a definite offer of employment, I wouldn’t suggest relocation. Unfortunately with this down employment market, decent jobs are hard to come by. I do however suggest you contact your local United Way. The United Way supports a number of organizations that assist ex-offenders and felons.

Now this is an out-of-the-box solution. Get help in your job search from powerful and influential people. Contact elected officials in your area and ask for help. Express your desire to be employed and once again become a productive member of society. Elected officials have staff members that answer letters and respond to inquiries from citizens. Officials that could offer assistance are: Mayors, Council Members, Commissioners, Aldermen, Board Members, Assemblymen, and Judges. Often you can get help from the judge who sentenced you.

You may even send a letter similar to this:

Craig J. Martin
321 North Drive
Houston, TX 77058
(281) 555-6402

July 11, 2005

The Honorable John H. Jones
Mayor of The City of Houston
901 Bagby St.
Houston, TX 77002

Dear Mayor Jones:

My name is Craig Martin. I am seeking your assistance in a particular matter. I am a former inmate looking to make a fresh start. It is my wish to become employed and once again become a contributing member of society. During my incarceration, I did not waste time. I took every opportunity to improve myself and make the most of my time in prison.

I know that the key to keeping my life going in the right direction is securing gainful employment. Despite my efforts, I am finding difficulty getting a job. I have applied for quite a few positions
without much success.

Could you offer any advice for a person who has made some mistakes but has made a commitment to uplift himself?

Enclosed is a copy of my personal history. Any advice or consideration you could offer would be
greatly appreciated.

Respectfully,

Craig J. Martin

Enclosure

I hope this helps

Are you an ex-offender who has a question about finding a job with a criminal record? You could have your question answered right here. Email your question to: BelievePublications@comcast.net.

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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Q: am trying to encourage my husband to not become discouraged due to the fact he lost a job that he had for 7 years because someone that he worked with was curious and looked up different people at his jobs back ground. When she put his name in the search field evidently she found he was an ex-offender. He was arrested for having sex with a minor which he said was no fault of his own. He never lied on his application and as a matter of fact he explained the situation with the human resource department before they gave him the job which was in Aug. 2003. Because of this information being accessible via the Internet the young lady filed a sexual harassment case against him and his 7 years of being a valued employee went down the drain. They let him go and later fired the young lady because they found out she had previously did the same thing at another job. Lately he’s been looking for employment and have been having a hard time because of his record. Well he became lucky and found one with SEARS. He was in the training class for a week but was told he could not continue because of his record. On the application he was asked if he had any felonies in the past 7 years. He answered NO. He was convicted in 2001. The company did a 7 year back ground check and everything was cleared. But for some reason they went further back and saw his charges. Is that legal? If the application asked for 7 years or less why would they go back further? Why would they give someone hope just to let them down? Just to let you know he hasn’t had so much as a driving violation since his arrest in 2001. Clean record since. He is the pictured candidate for rehabilitation. He served the time and hasn’t been in trouble since. Is this fair? And it’s hard to keep him from getting depressed because he just wants to take care of his family. Help!!! It’s getting bad

A: Hello, It seems that your husband is having trouble because of the nature of his conviction. This type of conviction is often more difficult for ex-offenders to overcome when looking for jobs. The problem is that even though there are varying levels of sex offenders, they are are lumped together especially when it come to mandatory registration. In most cases registration is made public making it even more difficult for ex-offenders and felons in this category to get jobs.

I encourage ex-offenders to apply for a Certificate of Rehabilitation. A Certificate of Rehabilitation is a court order, which declares that a person who has been convicted of a felony is rehabilitated. If a petition for a Certificate of Rehabilitation is granted, it is forwarded to the Governor by the granting court and constitutes an application for a pardon. In some cases the granting of a Certificate of Rehabilitation relieves some offenders from the sexual
offender registration requirement. I suggest that he speak to an attorney to decide the best course of action to get this done. Often ex-offenders and felons looking for jobs require some legal assistance. Your local legal aid office should be able to help him at little or no cost.

I hope this helps.

Are you an ex-offender who has a question about finding a job with a criminal record? You could have your question answered right here. Email your question to: BelievePublications@comcast.net.

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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Q: When I was 15 years old I was convicted of a class B felony in the state of New York for Assault first degree. Since my release I have been residing in New Jersey. In New York my crime was classified as a juvenile Offender and open to the public, however in New Jersey I have found that these records are not. I have even been accepted as a substitute teacher with this offense on my record. I have since graduated with a degree in Political Science and want to apply for a Juvenile Parole position in New Jersey. I don’t know if this is a waste of time though, because of my past record. I am 26 now so it has been 11 years since my conviction. Is it possible for me to acquire this type of job or is it simply a pipe dream?

N.D.B.

A: Juvenile records are always available to law enforcement, the court system and government agencies, so a background check by parole will reveal it.

I always encourage ex-offenders and convicted felons to apply for all jobs they qualify for and leave it up to someone else to exclude them. To me, you have an advantage having first hand experience on the wrong side of the law and would be an example to young people that are not defined by a conviction.

I hope this helps.

Are you an ex-offender who has a question about finding a job with a criminal record? You could have your question answered right here. Email your question to: BelievePublications@comcast.net.

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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Q: Mr. Mayo,

I have been looking at your YouTube videos and reading you website for a couple of months now. I need a little help. I am a nurse with a criminal record from 15 – 20 years ago. I live in PA. I have been blessed enough to get jobs because of my nursing experience, but I am pigeon-holed right now with my present employer. I earned a Master’s with a specialty in Nursing Informatics, but my record is keeping me from being able to leave my present employer. I am more than willing to relocate. I am in a quandary about what to do. I want to work in my specialty, but have not been given the chance to work in Informatics with my employer. I recently looked through the Nursing Traveler magazine and thought I would have a better chance to travel (finally) and make some good money. But I would be wasting my degree if I am not in Informatics. The job I have now isn’t what I want, but is M-F, with weekends and holidays off. This is a goldmine in the nursing world!. If I travel, I would be back to working on the floor and shifts.

Should I go through headhunters for Informatics positions? I went through an agency in NC and the hospital wanted to have a phone interview with me. I told the agency about my barrier. They were disappointed, but willing to give me a shot. The hospital wanted me to complete an application. I did and of course revealed my record. They sent me an email that had hostility in the tone that I wasn’t chosen to have an interview. I was sent a job posting from the government (USAjobs.gov) for an informatics position. I anonymously called HR about their policy in hiring ex-offenders. The Nurse Recruiter got indignant and told me that jobs are at a premium and that if I had the same qualifications that another person had, the other person would, of course, get the job. I didn’t bother to call an actual HR generalist or specialist at that facility. I figured, what was the use?!?

Do you think you could help me or guide me? Do you have any pointers for me? What is you fee for coaching people? Do you require meeting in person first? How about a web cam?
I am feeling really desperate: in a job a don;t like…a degree that is starting to seem worthless. Heck, I have even considered going to cosmetology school so I can be my own boss and not have to worry about this stuff.

Kelly

A: Hello Kelly,

You are on the right track applying for a Certificate of Rehabilitation and a subsequent pardon since expungement is not an option for you in Pennsylvania.

I’m not sure how much relocation will help in the computer age. I like the idea of using headhunters. Good headhunters know all of the angles and can handle your job search in the best way possible. I often encourage ex-offenders and felons with college backgrounds to go that route. In the meantime, whenever you apply for jobs, always do it by sending your resume with well written cover letters.

You may also want to consider teaching on the college level. Colleges have fewer restrictions than high schools or primary schools. This could afford you the opportunity to earn a good wage and possibly teach in your field of study. Nursing Informatics is a growing field and teaching opportunities are increasing.

These are just a few ideas while you are waiting to hear about your pardon.

Best of luck to you.

Are you an ex-offender who has a question about finding a job with a criminal record? You could have your question answered right here. Email your question to: BelievePublications@comcast.net.

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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Q: I was recently incarcerated and was given a 2yr sentence in 2008. I am currently applying for jobs. Most companies require that a felony charge be 7 to 10 years old before they will hire you. It’s ok for those who served over 7 years in prison but not good for those-like me who have never been to prison or those who served less than 7 years in prison. I have a vocational certification and license as well as a college diploma. Companies will not hire me because my felony is less than 7 years old. It is not a lack of education or work experience that is hindering me from getting a job. It is the felony charge that is less than 7 years old. What can I do? What advice can you give me?

A: Hello,

First of all, just because you have a criminal record doesn’t mean you can’t get a job. Ex-offenders and convicted felons get jobs everyday. The best advice I can give you is to apply for as many jobs as you feel you qualify for. Remember, you won’t get a job you don’t apply for.

I tell ex-offenders and felons looking for jobs that they have to be better than the average job seeker to get hired. That means to dress better, speak better and interview better.

Also get help on your job search from your local One-stop Career Center. There you will find a variety of services that can help you get a job including referrals for open position in your area. There are counselors there that can offer you one-on-one assistance. Often these counselors are experienced in helping ex-offenders and felons get jobs. One-stop career centers are under-utilized resources that can really help. You can the center nearest to you here:

http://www.servicelocator.org/

I hope this helps.

Are you an ex-offender who has a question about finding a job with a criminal record? You could have your question answered right here. Email your question to: BelievePublications@comcast.net.

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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Q: Hello,

I have just recently completed one year of my 6 year felony deferred adjudication probation. I have 4 felony charges in all, three for possession of controlled substance (one of which was fraudulent script/possession) and the last for burglary of a building. So far, I’ve been the model probationee. I’m over half-way done with my community service, and paid up on all of my restitution, fines, and court costs. I was curious what I might be able to go to college for once I complete my deferred probation? I know I only have to complete 1/3 of the time given for this probation before I can ask for early release. . .that is 1 year away, at which time, I will have paid up everything i owe, and will have completed all of my community service. I was an addict, and have since been clean since being put on deferred. I have no desire to go back to the way I was before, but I don’t see how I can go forward with all of these scars on my record. what can I go to college for, and actually acquire gainful employment?

thanks in advance,

A Wretch

A: In reference to your deferred adjudication, you must consider the conditions of your deferment. In most cases, when the conditions are fulfilled (usually a fine and probation,) the original charges are dismissed but they remain as charges not convictions. Anyone accessing your record (other than law enforcement,the court system, and government agencies) will only see the charges.

In regards to attending college, many of my students have gone on to college careers. There are some points of consideration. Some vocations may require certification or licensing. Be sure your conviction will not prohibit you from being certified or licensed in your state. Also concerning getting federal financial assistance for college, I know of felons and ex-offenders who were able to get grants and loans for education and later on jobs. Unfortunately not everyone convicted of a felony is eligible. Certain drug convictions require that you complete an accepted drug rehabilitation program in order to be eligible for federal financial aid. Just something to consider.

Are you an ex-offender who has a question about finding a job with a criminal record? You could have your question answered right here. Email your question to: BelievePublications@comcast.net.

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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Q: I have a felony charge disorderly conduct mishandling a firearm domestic violence (all one charge) that was originally aggravated assault with a deadly weapon. I was convicted at the end of last year 2009 and just received probation. I have a Degree in Electronics & Computer Tech from DeVry University and haven’t been able to find a job. Any suggestions? Please help. I’m in Phoenix, AZ.

A: Hello sir,
Your having difficulty finding a job may have more to do with the economic downswing that a criminal record.

My first suggestion is to contact your nearest legal aid office. Perhaps you can get some assitance in getting your conviction downgraded from a felony to a misdemeanor. I have many students who have done this.

Secondly, you may not get a job in your field right away. You may have to take something else until you can find what you want. Your nearest One-stop Career Center can help you find a job. You can find Career centers in the Phoenix area here:

http://www.servicelocator.org/Search/etaSearchOffice.asp?zip=&city=phoenix&state=AZ&proximity=10&search=Search

I hope this helps.

Are you an ex-offender who has a question about finding a job with a criminal record? You could have your question answered right here. Email your question to: BelievePublications@comcast.net.

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Q: Hi,

My name is Amanda. I would like to know if I have a record in NY saying that I shoplifted would I be able to work as HHA( home health aid) in NY?

A:Hello Amanda.

Certain jobs may require licensing or certifications that may be restricted to ex-offenders and felons based on their individual convictions. You would have to contact the the school where you will get your training and inquire if you will able to be licensed in New Your State.

I hope this helps.

Are you an ex-offender who has a question about finding a job with a criminal record? You could have your question answered right here. Email your question to: BelievePublications@comcast.net.

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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Q: Hey Eric,

First of all I want to thank you for doing what you’re doing. There are a lot of people out there who need assistance in these situations. I have an Assault III charge from 2003 in which I plead guilty to avoid jail time. The original charge was Abuse of a Household member as the altercation took place between me and my girlfriend. The charges were reduced to the Assault III as part of the plea bargain. I am not a criminal and have remained so since these events. I am having a difficult time finding employment as a result. I am educated and have a decent amount of work experience. I have attached my resume as well in hope that you can give me some insight on the best way to approach this situation. Thanks again for all the work you do.

Sincerely,

Matt

A: Hello Matt,

Fortunately an assault charge is not that difficult to deal with. I encourage all ex-offenders and felons looking for jobs to always be honest. When listing your charge on applications, I suggest doing it like this:

Assault (isolated incident) 4/22/2001 Houston, TX Probation, two years

Notice that I used the term “isolated incident” to lessen the impact.

I also 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 center near you here:

http://www.servicelocator.org

I hope this helps.

Are you an ex-offender who has a question about finding a job with a criminal record? You could have your question answered right here. Email your question to: BelievePublications@comcast.net.

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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