You’re going for the job of your dreams but you’re a little nervous. When you were younger, you were stupid enough to break the law and get caught. Your arrest record has been haunting you for some time now and you’re afraid it could affect your chances of even interviewing for this job. Does an employer have to check your criminal record?
Well, it turns out you’re not alone. A recent study has found that nearly a third of all Americans have been arrested by age 23. Having an arrest record can do some damage to your life, even if you served your time. And yes, this includes getting that dream job. According to New Jersey law, employers do have the right to obtain any information about your criminal background in an effort to determine your qualifications for employment. However, according to Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, that employer cannot discriminate. So if you have a criminal past, your employer cannot refuse the job to you on this information alone.
Also remember, you can clear up your record. If your arrest happened some time ago, you may be eligible to have it expunged and then you won’t have to worry about your criminal past. Need help in clearing your record? Contact the Law Offices of Anthony Carbone and we’ll help you sort things out. For more information on record expungement, click here.