RSSAs Los Angeles residents are likely all too aware, it’s not easy to land a good job these days. Making things even tougher are the extensive background checks utilized by many employers. These can include credit checks, criminal background checks and more. For those with criminal convictions on their records, securing employment can be exceptionally difficult in an uncertain economy.
However, things may be about to change in that regard. Recently L.A. Mayor Eric Garcetti appeared at a rally supporting a move to change the job application process for many applicants. The movement is known as “Ban the Box” and aims to stop the automatic disqualification of those with a criminal conviction from certain jobs. In L.A., the measure is known as the Fair Chance Initiative.
Currently, many job applications have a box that applicants must check if they have been convicted of a Los Angeles criminal offense. Not surprisingly, this can seriously harm a person’s chances of getting any type of job, even an entry-level position. Curren Price, a city councilman for Los Angeles, has backed the proposal and requested a legislative analyst review the authority the city may hold over employers.
Not being employable is a huge burden not only for the individual, but also for society. Per capita, L.A. has the largest number of parolees out of any city in the U.S. Statewide, one-fourth of residents bear the burden of a conviction or arrest on their record. Nationwide, about 70 million Americans have some sort of criminal record.
In today’s internet age, even allegations of criminal activity can be severely damaging to one’s reputation. Mug shots are often put online, as are details of arrests and even a suspect’s address. A lawyer for the National Employment Law Center noted that those with convictions are 50% less likely to be able to find a job than those without criminal records.
Still, embarrassment pales in comparison to being unable to support oneself. Moving the background check further back in the hiring process helps level the playing field, noted the mayor. In addition, increasing employment is likely to decrease recidivism.
For those facing criminal charges, avoiding conviction or bringing charges down to a lesser level is key. For more information contact experienced Los Angeles criminal defense attorney Jonathan I. Kelman at 310.286.1218.