Drug charges are always serious charges – even when the offense is a misdemeanor. The fact is that a conviction for a drug misdemeanor can have severe ramifications in your future, including your post-conviction job search. If you have such a conviction on your record, however, there are things that you can do to improve your chances of finding a rewarding job. Conversely, if you are facing misdemeanor drug charges, it is time to consult with an experienced criminal defense attorney. (Learn why it is important to have an attorney for your drug charge)
Your Criminal Record
The fact is that your criminal conviction is a matter of public record that a potential employer can access. Most job applications and employment processes include specific questions about criminal records, and it is imperative that you answer honestly. However, this does not mean that there are not better and worse ways to tackle the issue.
Focus on Employment that Does Not Require a Background Check
If you are wide open to employment opportunities, an excellent place to start is with occupations that typically do not require background checks or that are not overly concerned with your criminal record. These can include:
- Janitorial work
- Construction work
- Gas station attendance
- Online customer service
By keeping your options open, you allow more room for success.
Responding to Delicate Application Questions
If the job application that you are filling out includes questions about your criminal background, it is important that you answer as truthfully as possible – without going into too much detail or oversharing generally. You can share the fact of your conviction without sharing the specifics, and doing so helps to establish your credibility. Attempting to hide the fact of your conviction can tarnish your reputation and can even lead to dismissal if your employer finds out about it after the fact.
Handling Interviews
If you have made it to the interview stage in your search for a job, you should congratulate yourself and think carefully about how you will handle the inevitable questions about that conviction. Fortunately, there are some helpful strategies that can employ, including:
- Respond to questions about your conviction by focusing on the positive changes you have made in your life since that time.
- Share the difference that your rehabilitation program, community service, or any other program you participated in helped you to grow.
- Allow your interviewers to get to know you a bit and to recognize that you are so much more than a mistake you made in the past – and that you have much to offer on the job.
Look to an Experienced Attorney for the Help You Need
Misdemeanor drug charges are serious charges. Brett Pritchard at The Law Office of Brett H. Pritchard in Killeen, Texas, however, is a dedicated criminal defense attorney who is well prepared to craft your most solid defense and help you obtain a favorable case resolution. Your case is important, so please do not hesitate to contact us online or call us at 254-501-4040 for more information today.
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