Q:
My ex-girlfriend showed up at my door all bruised from a beating her then boyfriend gave her. I took it upon myself to show him what it was like to be beaten. No weapon involved, only fists. After wards, not realizing what it would mean, to further humiliate him, I asked if he had any money on him. He handed over 20 dollars which I later gave to the ex-girlfriend.
As you can guess, I got a robbery conviction with a suspended year sentence. Now every time I apply for work I fill the blank that says I am a “convicted felon“. The prospective employer can look up my case record and it says “Robbery”. Does not explain circumstances or how much. I get very depressed when I am turned down for a job over something that I did foolishly when I had just turned 19. I am 25 now.
Any suggestions on where I can go for work in and around Baltimore, Maryland?
Steve J.
A:
Hello,
Robbery is a tough conviction to work with. Assault is another difficult conviction to work with because it is seen as a violent crime.You may have to use some unconventional means to get some help. This is what you may call a “totally out of the box” solution to a tough problem. Contact the judge who sentenced you. Sounds crazy doesn’t it? It has worked for several of my students. Write the judge a letter, get some help if you need to. In the letter, tell the judge how you gladly paid your debt to society and that you are not a danger to anyone. Also talk about the steps you have taken to better yourself. Then mention that finding a job has proven difficult and could he/she offer some advice to someone in your situation.
Judges are very influential people in their communities and have access to many resources.. The important thing here is not to ask for a job but simply for advice. You will be surprised how well this works.
The felon job search may have to include some legal assistance. The other thing I would suggest is to contact your local legal aid office to look into having your convictions possibly downgraded to misdemeanors. You may be able to get low cost or free legal assistance. Chances are there are attorneys that are familiar with situations like yours. They may even have contact with employers that hire ex-offenders. You will find information about the Maryland Legal Aid Bureau here
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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