Criminal Record and Employment

The topic of criminal records and employment is multifaceted and can be approached from the perspectives of both the ex-offender seeking employment and the employer screening job applicants. The ex-offender will find him- or herself in the position of having to determine whether or not to be honest on the job application, knowing that honesty regarding criminal background may automatically preclude him or her from an interview and any further opportunity with the company, while dishonesty may lead to allegations of résumé fraud. Employers have a duty to protect their clients and current employees by carefully screening applicants. They can face allegations of negligent hiring practices if they do not screen applicants. The Equal Employment Opportunity Coalition (EEOC) published enforcement guidelines in 2012 to clarify ...