Criminal charges can have a profound impact on an individual’s career progression. Jailtime dramatically disrupts a person’s studies and career momentum. Once released, it might feel like starting all over again. Many employers also complete background checks, which may make it difficult to find any kind of employment with a criminal record.
To make matters worse, criminal convictions may also affect a person’s ability to pay for college. Certain convictions may lead to the federal government withholding financial aid and grants.
Career paths
In almost every field, individuals convicted of a crime related to the industry may find themselves blacklisted. For instance, few delivery positions overlook a DUI. Similarly, a liquor store manager often has the legal right not to hire someone convicted of alcohol-related charges, though they do not need to do this.
Minnesota State University points out that some career paths are objectively closed off because of loss of eligibility for licensure. These include the following:
- Businesses that involve working with children, such as daycares and schools
- Occupations that involve working with special needs individuals and seniors, such as nursing homes
- Health care professions, such as nursing
College cost
Drug convictions also pose a specific risk to college students while attending school. Matters become even worse if the arrest occurs while the student attended school and received financial aid from the government.
U.S. News reports that, after conviction, the federal government might deem some people ineligible for financial aid if arrested for drug charges at any level, while enrolled and receiving its assistance. Ironically, when the crime took place and when the conviction occurs might not matter nearly as much.
Many people go on to advance in their careers, despite criminal charges. However, clean records lead to far better opportunities.
