If you have a domestic battery conviction, you may be wondering if it’s possible to get a job or continue working for the government. This guide explains.
Can You Work for the Government if You Have a Domestic Battery Conviction?
It is possible to work for the government if you have a domestic battery conviction. However, there may be some limitations on the types of jobs you can get and your ability to advance in your career. You should check with the human resources department of the agency you are interested in working for to see what their policy is regarding hiring people with domestic battery convictions.
Some government agencies, such as the Department of Justice, have specific hiring policies that exclude people with domestic violence convictions from certain positions. Other agencies may not have an explicit policy, but they may be less likely to hire someone with a domestic violence conviction.
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has said that employers can consider an applicant’s criminal history when making hiring decisions. However, the EEOC has also said that employers must consider the nature of the crime, the time that has passed since the crime was committed, and whether the job is relevant to the crime.
If you have a domestic battery conviction, it is important to be honest about it when you are applying for a job with the government. Lying on your application can be grounds for dismissal even if you are otherwise qualified for the position.
Related: 7 reasons you should never represent yourself in a domestic battery case
The Best Course of Action: Avoiding a Conviction
As the old saying goes, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. In this instance, that means that if you can avoid a domestic battery conviction, you should. If you’ve been accused of this crime, you have the right to legal counsel; you should exercise that right and get legal advice from a skilled attorney. The consequences of a conviction can be severe (and could prevent you from getting a government job, holding a security clearance, or continuing to work for your government employer).
Though there’s never any guarantee on how a judge will rule, you may find that the best way to get the best possible outcome in your case is to work with an attorney.
Related: 3 myths about domestic battery in Illinois
Do You Need to Talk to an Attorney About Domestic Battery Defense?
If you need to talk to a domestic battery defense attorney in Illinois, we’re here to help. Call us at 847-920-4540 now – we’ll be happy to give you a free consultation and talk to you about your options.
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