Legal Question in Employment Law in Maryland

I was convicted of possession of drugs and given prison time in 1972; Do I have to disclose this after 39 years. Is there a time limit on how far back a potential employer can check? Can that be held against me for a non-sensitive job? After all, I have paid my debt to society...


Asked on 6/28/11, 5:01 am

1 Answer from Attorneys

Phillip M. Cook Cook Legal Services, LLC

Never a good idea to lie on a job application. You may have served your time and it may have been a long time ago, but that doesn't mean you don't have a criminal record. There is no time limit on how far back a potential employer can check. It simply depends on how thorough the background check is and whether the information on your '72 conviction is available publicly. Your best bet is to disclose the conviction and explain to your potential employer that it was more than 30 years ago, that you served your debt to society, that you are willing to take a drug test if the employer has concerns, etc.

Best of luck.*****The above is for informational purposes only and does not create an attorney-client privilege.******

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Answered on 7/08/11, 9:57 pm


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