When you are on probation, you will likely be required to find a job. This is something that can be a challenge, which can impact your probation. When you are trying to find a job, there are several things that you need to think about.
First, you might not be able to return to the career that you had prior to your arrest. You need to look at the charge you are on probation for and think about how it might impact your prospects. People who have a violent crime charge might not be able to work with children or the elderly. Someone with an identity theft conviction probably won’t be able to work at a financial institution.
Second, you have to consider what restrictions you have because of your probation. These can vary based on the conviction you have, so make sure that you ask your probation officer if you do have any restrictions. For example, a person who has a drug conviction likely won’t be able to work in a bar or around alcohol.
Third, be honest. You should be honest with your probation officer about how your search is going. You must also be honest about your criminal history when you are asked about it on an application. This can help you to prevent problems in the future.
There is a chance that you could face a probation violation if you lose your job or aren’t meeting the job search requirements your probation officer sets. In these cases, you will need to find out your rights and work to fight against the probation violation charge.
Source: Career Trend, “How to find a job while on probation,” Van Thompson, accessed Jan. 19, 2018
