Can you help me find a job?
I unfortunately have a felony conviction, after probation and all restitution is paid for my rights will automatically be restored. Does anyone have advice for someone like me trying to find work? I refuse to do fast food or anything that pays minimum wage. I know my worth, I have worked in the construction/Trades for 5 years now. I haven’t settled into a specific trade yet. Please, I need help finding a job that won’t discriminate against my record and is over minimum wage. Thanks! I’m located 1 hour east of phoenix, Az. Please help?
I cannot speak for the laws in AZ as I lived in NJ for most of my life (and currently reside in SC). I can only talk about what I have experienced in those states.
I knew a person with a felony conviction in NJ. I’ll call him B.L. After 18 years (-- and that does not include his jail time), B.L. hired a lawyer to get his criminal case closed. Even after that, it is only partially closed. There are human rights that felons are no longer eligible for— again, this was from NJ. I am not familiar with the laws in your state.
With that said, B.L. currently holds a management position. He also flagged when that job did the background check--- with a closed case. B.L. had no choice but to eat humble pie, and explain that the conviction was from 2004, and that he is no longer on parole.
I also know felons who are landlords, movers, or own their own business.
There are avenues to explore. Check out the laws in your state as well as felon-friendly jobs.
It is easy for anyone to get deterred, but that just means that there is more to stive for, more to prove. Don’t get deterred. If you were to ask B.L. about life in the system, he would say that it is unkind. One mistake should not condemn a person for life, nor is it unforgivable. Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. There are employers out there that believe that also. Sometimes they are just hard to find.
Best of luck to you and God Bless. And don’t be surprised if you, too, have to eat humble pie.
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I too have felony convictions and am also currently in the market for a new job, it's important to remember that all your life experiences, even the challenging ones, can be valuable assets. Just like any obstacle you've overcome, this experience can have built strengths and skills like resilience, responsibility, and problem-solving – all qualities employers seek. You can further showcase your value by highlighting any educational programs or certifications you gained during your period of correction, demonstrating your commitment to rehabilitation and a positive future. Its about how well you can convince others of your worth regardless of past decisions.