Legal Question in Employment Law in Pennsylvania

Criminal Background As Reason for Non-Hire

In May 1999 I was convicted on two arson charges. The disposition of the charges was 23 months probation which was completed successfully and without incident. Presently I am unemployed and seeking work within my area of expertise. I have worked in the same field for over 25 years and am well-qualified for the positions for which I have applied. On at least two occasions, I was told I would be hired but then informed the company would not be able to hire me due to my ''criminal background.'' How can the felony conviction be used as a reason to not hire me? How long will this follow me and prevent me from gaining meaningful employment?


Asked on 7/12/05, 8:05 pm

1 Answer from Attorneys
Mark Johns Mark Johns, Esquire

Re: Criminal Background As Reason for Non-Hire

In Pennsylvania a company can use felony and misdemeanor convictions in the hiring process only if it relates to the duties of the job. Many companies have blanket policies which prohibit hiring people with certain offenses. These blanket policies open the companies up to lawsuits. I would recommend that you speak with an attorney to see if you have been wrongly denied employment under the applicable law. I offer free consultations.

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Answered on 7/12/05, 9:26 pm


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