Resources for Finding New Employment After Serving Time for Domestic Violence

If you have ever served time for a domestic violence conviction, it may seem difficult to secure employment. Summit Defense explains that “even a first-time conviction can lead to serious consequences and affect your employment prospects, your good name, burden you with a permanent criminal record, impose a restraining order and compromise your immigration status.” We at Nolef Turns, Inc. recognize that the transition out of prison comes with difficult and unique challenges for each individual, and we are dedicated to helping educate you so that you can get back on your feet as easily and quickly as possible. Don’t let your past continuously hinder your future. There are resources to acquire quality employment with the presence of domestic violence on your record.

Contact Your State Agency

Your local state department of labor has an abundance of opportunities. The state seeks employers that will hire candidates with charges on their background. If eligible, employers will receive a Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) for hiring individuals from different targeted groups. Individuals with convictions of domestic violence are a part of the group.

To assist job seekers, the state will often hold affordable (sometimes at no cost) seminars and training courses. Finding employment can be competitive so it is highly recommended to take advantage of courses that are available. There are programs to assist with interview skills, resume preparation, and on the job training. Research your state programs and make the necessary connections to improve your future.

National Hire Network

This organization specializes in assisting ex-offenders with employment needs. The number of opportunities vary by state. They have a list of employers that are willing to overlook domestic violence convictions. National Hire is based on fair hiring practices and partners with companies to open doors of opportunity.

Federal Bonding Program

This program was established by the U.S. Department of Labor in 1966. At no cost to the employee or employer, Fidelity Bonds are given to companies to hire candidates that pose a potential risk. A Fidelity Bond is a type of insurance that covers losses that may be incurred by the commitment of fraudulent acts by specific individuals. Companies feel more inclined to hire a candidate with a background when the stakes are not as high.

Honesty

It is tempting to deny that you have a complicated background but being dishonest will only prolong your search for employment. Honestly, truth is the best policy. It is not recommended to blatantly present the information during an interview. If an offer of employment is presented and the background portion is needed, be truthful. Sometimes, a company’s policy for hiring candidates with backgrounds varies from one person to the next due to the nature of the incident.

In some cases, the type of offense and the details of each case will be considered. If an employer asks for a statement about the situation, they are asking for clarification. This is your opportunity to show the employer that you can be upfront and forthcoming. Explain why the incident occurred and be remorseful about the situation if it is appropriate. No matter what, you want to remain genuine at all times.

Conclusion

In today’s economy, finding the ideal job is difficult for most of the population. If you take the time to develop your skills and use the various resources provided, you will put yourself on a path to success. Don’t let your mistakes define you and keep seeking advancement.

If you need more information, Nolef Turns, Inc. is here for you. For help on pre-release services, re-entry services, and post-conviction services, click here. We have a growing series of programs to help you succeed.

Works Cited:

http://www.hirenetwork.org/

http://njsnap-ed.gov/