When you are convicted of a misdemeanor in Wisconsin, you may not consider how this will affect your job. It sometimes may be more difficult to gain employment, though, and it is important that you know what you can do to ensure your misdemeanor does not keep you from finding work.
Employers are usually allowed to ask you about your criminal record. According to U.S. News, someone cannot use your criminal record as a reason to hire someone else. Additionally, people typically need you to sign a form authorizing the company to perform a background check. This provides an opportunity for you to speak to the hiring manager about your misdemeanor. You should typically explain how you have changed since being convicted. It is usually best if you mention a misdemeanor before a company runs a background check.
When you have a misdemeanor on your record, it can be valuable to network. This allows people to meet you in person and realize that you are a qualified professional. Sometimes you may also want to work with an organization that specializes in helping people find work when they have a misdemeanor on their record. Additionally, it can be beneficial to have personal references who can testify to your solid character.
Sometimes you may be able to have a misdemeanor expunged from your record. In other circumstances, you might ask if your record can be sealed. Both of these options usually keep a misdemeanor from appearing when someone runs a background check.
This information is intended to educate. It should not be used in place of legal advice.
