A sudden domestic violence charge can be traumatizing for everyone involved. If you are currently facing a domestic violence charge, you may be wondering how a charge could affect your current career or job search. Each employer will react differently to a current employee being charged or a potential employee in the application process. While being charged is not the same as being convicted, it can still cause strain in the workplace. Learn more here about how a domestic violence charge can affect the accused person’s job. 

Can I lose my current job?

There are many workplace laws that are designed to protect employees from wrongful termination and discrimination, however these laws do not protect people who have already been convicted of domestic violence. If you are only facing charges, you may be safe for the time being. Typically, there are only a few job industries that require you to disclose that you have been arrested. Most often, your employer will not find out about your arrest unless you tell them.

Although you are not required to disclose your arrest, it may be in your best interest to be honest with your employer. With serious charges, you will most likely need time off for court dates, mediation, or other matters regarding the charge. While explaining the situation to your employer, you can further explain your part in it and possibly lessen the risk of being let go.

What shows up on a background check?

When applying for a job, most companies have standard interview and hiring procedures. This can include processes such as drug tests, skill assessments, and background checks. A background check is a process that companies use to confirm the validity of the person applying and the information they’ve provided. This includes their criminal record, employment history, education history, and more. 

After seeing the applicant’s personal and professional history, the employer can make an educated decision on whether to hire or pass on a potential employee. Regardless if a potential employee makes an effort to explain the context behind a criminal charge, it is ultimately up to the employer’s opinion and discretion. 

Domestic violence charges don’t only affect the person charged with the crime. According to a collection of domestic violence statistics from a Boulder criminal defense attorney, “Up to 60 percent of victims lose their jobs in relation to domestic violence abuse.”

How long will domestic violence be on my record?

In some careers, a domestic violence charge or conviction will significantly hurt your chances of getting a job or keeping a job in the following positions: teacher, police officer, government employee, working with vulnerable populations, and healthcare careers. 

When it comes to a domestic violence conviction, this will stay on your record indefinitely. Because of this, it would be wise to consider looking into record expungement. A record expungement will remove the conviction from your record and you will not be required to disclose the conviction in the future. The laws of your state will play a big part in this, as only certain types of convictions will qualify for this.

Domestic violence charges can not only impact your personal life, but your professional life as well. Because of this, it’s important to understand what your options are at the present time and in the future. If you are facing domestic violence charges, speak with a domestic violence defense attorney from Dolan + Zimmerman, LLP or at a law firm near you.