A criminal conviction can affect your future in many ways, making it harder to secure scholarships, rental contracts, and job offers. Unfortunately, even a misdemeanor infraction can raise red flags with potential employers. Learn more about how a misdemeanor may impact your career success in Ohio, and how an attorney can get your record expunged.

FAQ About Misdemeanors & Job Applications

Why do employers run criminal background checks?

Once you’re working for an employer, they can be held liable for harmful actions you take while on the job. For example, if you work at a bar and get into an altercation with a customer, physically injuring them, both you and your employer can be sued. If you were previously arrested for assault, the employer could be accused of "negligent hiring," meaning they should have known you might not be the best fit for the job.

When can a potential employer ask for your record?

If an employer can prove that checking your criminal record is a "business necessity," they will be granted access to it. Say you have applied to be a truck driver, for example. The trucking company could reasonably argue that they need to check whether you have any motor vehicle convictions, such as a DUI, on your record.

Will misdemeanors show up on your criminal record?

Your criminal record covers your criminal history at the local, state, and federal level, including misdemeanors. It will include all black marks—even something as minor as a traffic violation. However, if your offenses have been expunged by your attorney, meaning they have been “deleted” from your public criminal record, they should not appear.

How can you get a misdemeanor expunged?

If you want to prevent a criminal past from negatively impacting your future, your best option is to have your record expunged. If you do this, you can legally say “no” when asked whether you have a record. Many misdemeanors can be expunged in Ohio, although driver's license violations, and violent first- and second-degree misdemeanors, can’t be.

If you’re looking to get your misdemeanor expunged, contact the attorneys at Pater, Pater & Halverson in Hamilton, OH. This law firm has roots in the community dating back over a century, and they have experience covering everything from estate planning to personal injury claims. Get to know their friendly team online, or schedule an appointment with an attorney by calling (513) 867-1411.