I am 25 years old, with 4 beautiful children. When I was 20 I was
arrested for possession of a controlled substance. 3rd degree felony.
I have changed my ways and looking for a new start so I can accomplish
the things I need to go forward in my life. At this moment I am going
to school to get my minor in Criminal Justice.  The school I am
attending has told me that there are "chances" I will not get hired
for corrections or any other state facility.( in other words no
garantee of a job) I understood clearly that I would be taking my
chances and thats something I'm willing to do. Life is all about
taking chances, right. After finishing my associates, I would like to get a
bachelor's in Psychology. In other words I want to be a counselor. Do
you think it is possible I could land a good job, it doesn't have to
be the best job, just one good enough for me.
 Nicole Padron

If you can convince the employer that you have changed your ways and
you want the chance to prove yourself it's likely it won't effect you
so harshly. Portraying yourself as a loving family man is perfect.


You have first hand experience with drug related affairs so your first
hand experience may even help you in dealing with the many cases that
arise in those circumstances. A reasonable employer would find you a
logical selection, especially since they know you'd work hard to
descredit any preconceptions they may have about your past.

Its a pretty safe bet that a government employer ( civil, state,
federal ) would probably not hire you based on your criminal record.

I'm not sure where you are located, but if you apply as a counsellor
to smaller non-profit agencies, they may not have the same indepth
screening requirements.

Congrats, nonetheless, in seeking to better your future and that of your children.

Steph53

If 'Nicole' is a female name, then I admire you for studying with four young kids.

What currently looks like a disadvantage (a trivial conviction) could
well be a minor advantage in the future.

Even Dubya took the odd toke.
Current intolerance will probably give way to pragmatic nostalgia.

If you are good at what you do, then you will find a career.

Many organizations hands will be tied when it comes to hiring a
convicted felon. Law enforcement agencies for example cannot hire
convicted felons because the law does not permit convicted felons to
carry firearms or in some cases obtain certain states licenses.

Look into having your conviction expunged or pardoned. I known some
people who have done this successfully and eventually got hired as law
enforcement officers.

Good luck
tutuzdad-ga