All of the different types of pardons are designed to help you find a job. This is the sole purpose of the provisional pardon. The provisional pardon is a new type of pardon in the State of Connecticut. If you received a provisional pardon, it should make the job hunt easier. If you find that you are still denied a job even with this pardon, there are some things to know. An employer must do specific things if they deny you a job and you have a provisional pardon. You can learn more about this here.

Provisional Pardon Review

In 2014, a new law was created in Connecticut. This law reviewed the provisional pardon. This law created specific guidelines. These guidelines are for potential employers of those with provisional pardons. The law stated that employers needed to view the provisional pardon as a form of rehabilitation. Any agency that denies employment for someone with a provisional pardon needs to give the applicant reasons for denial. They can’t deny the applicant based on their criminal history alone. They must provide reasons in writing to the applicant. They have to tell them why the applicant is not a good fit. The agency can reference the applicant’s criminal record. But, they have to talk about how their record makes them a bad fit for the job. There must be legitimate reasons and concerns for denying the applicant. The employer has to prove how their criminal record interferes with the job.

An employer might deny an applicant for reasons not related to their criminal record. For example, if an applicant is not qualified for the job, a denial of employment might have nothing to do with their criminal record. Whatever an employer’s reasons, they must undergo carefully analysis. They also have to be provided for the applicant in a written document.

Now there is a new movement across the country that the state of Connecticut has adopted called “ban the box.” Ban the box means that in many cases, you will not have to tell your potential employer about your criminal history. However, there are exceptions to this in which you do need to divulge a criminal history. In these cases, a provisional pardon may still be useful.

Getting the Fresh Start That You Deserve

If you were denied a job by an agency, and you think that it is related to your criminal record, you should contact a lawyer. A pardon lawyer can review the circumstances of your situation. They can help you determine if you were denied employment because of your record or for other reasons. If denied just because of your criminal record, something might be done to help. Contact my office for more information.