Critical Impacts of Criminal Charges on Your Professional License and Career
Criminal charges can compromise your career or professional aspirations, particularly for professionals currently holding or looking to acquire licenses in the healthcare, law, education, and finance industries.
For example, according to The Code of Colorado Regulations State Board of Nursing, in order to obtain a professional nursing license, applicants must submit fingerprints. This allows prospective employers to access the applicant’s criminal history records from both the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Colorado Bureau of Investigation. License eligibility can be severely impacted if you were involved in a past situation that resulted in a criminal charge.
Here are three of the most damaging implications criminal charges can pose for your future job prospects.
Professional License Suspension or Revocation
Many jobs in Denver require a professional license, from medicine and nursing to law and finance. Procuring and maintaining a license is not a simple task, and criminal charges, such as fraud, substance abuse, and gross incompetence, can result in license suspension or even revocation.
We understand that the suspension or revocation of your license can feel insurmountable and that, like John, you may feel stuck, unsure of how to return to normalcy.
But remember: if you have lost your license through suspension or revocation, it is not the end of your career. You can appeal your case with the help of a professional and experienced Denver criminal defense attorney. Tell us about your case; we can help you!
Barriers to Future Employment Due to Criminal Charges
According to a bill summary on the use of criminal convictions in employment decisions, “Under current law, a criminal conviction alone does not disqualify a person from public employment except for specified positions and employers.” In other words, the fact that you have a criminal conviction on your record DOES NOT necessarily mean that you are ineligible for a given position. This is a plus.
Even further, the bill “prohibits a state or local agency from taking adverse action concerning a license or permit or not extending an offer of employment if an individual has been arrested but not charged.” In other words, your current employment situation or future prospects should not be impacted if you were arrested, but not ultimately charged with a crime.
However, the picture does still change when a criminal history is involved. In the event that there were legitimate charges against you, these charges will appear on criminal background checks and can make you a less appealing candidate, especially in industries with strict hiring policies. If you have found yourself in this situation, seek the support of a trusted Colorado criminal law firm that can help you move forward with confidence.
Negative Impact on Professional Reputation
It is worth noting that even if your license is not revoked and your employment situation remains secure, criminal charges can still tarnish your reputation. While you have put years of prestigious work into your craft, public scrutiny can lead to devastating consequences, including the loss of clients and a decline in positive perceptions.
It is not uncommon for public scorn to lead individuals to quit their jobs entirely, and we completely understand this tendency. But, know that this is not necessary! A professional Denver criminal lawyer can advise you on the situation, helping you to improve your image and avoid further career deterioration.
FAQs About Criminal Charges Employment Consequences
According to GoodHire, a criminal record background check investigates a candidate’s criminal history. Employers often include this type of background check in their pre-employment screening process to help them select candidates who are eligible and qualified for the position they want to fill.
Thus, in this part of the process, the company ensures you align with their values and policies, attempting to avoid any future inconsistencies or inconveniences.
Your criminal background check shows any record of misdemeanors or felonies for which you have been charged, tried, or convicted.
As Backgroundchecks.com states, criminal background checks typically do include pending criminal charges or arrests. Nevertheless, employers are usually advised to refrain from weighing these background check findings as heavily as convictions, since there is no proof of guilt without a verdict and sentence.
Typically, criminal background checks in Colorado cover the past seven years, with some exceptions.
Get immediate legal support! Seeking immediate assistance from an experienced lawyer in these circumstances is crucial for safeguarding your career. If you have just been charged, a skilled attorney can defend you against these charges. If you have been charged in the past and are looking for retroactive support, a legal team can guide you on next steps.
Seeking legal representation for criminal charges in Denver or a surrounding Colorado county? The MBS Law team can handle your case. Contact us today to learn more.
Criminal Charges & Employment Prospects: Key Takeaways
Criminal charges can severely impact your career, leading to suspension or revocation of professional licenses, obstacles obtaining future employment, and damage to your professional reputation. Seeking expert legal advice can help you manage these challenges and mitigate their effects.
Final Thoughts — Get Legal Advice!
Dealing with criminal charges can be an uphill battle, especially when they threaten your career. But with steadfast legal assistance and a strategic approach, you can conquer these obstacles and concentrate on rebuilding your professional life.
Don’t allow your past to dictate your future—take proactive measures today to protect and propel your career forward by trusting Mastro, Barnes & Stazzone, P.C. (MBS Law). Schedule your free and confidential appointment now and take charge of your future!
