How Criminal Records Affect Employment in Pennsylvania

One of the most common concerns I hear from clients—especially after a case is resolved—is this: “How is this going to affect my job or future employment?"

The truth is, in Pennsylvania, a criminal record can follow you long after your case ends. Even if you were never convicted, an arrest alone can appear in background checks. Employers, licensing boards, and even landlords may view this history negatively—unless steps are taken to seal or clear your record. Look into my services for Philadelphia white collar criminal defense.

With over 30 years of experience defending clients charged with crimes throughout Pennsylvania, I’ve helped people navigate these charges and avoid harsh outcomes and clean up their records. Here’s how I approach Expungement cases. Here’s what you need to know about how criminal records affect employment in Pennsylvania—and how I help clients move forward with expungement and record-clearing options.

What Shows Up on a Criminal Background Check?

Employers often use background checks as part of the hiring process.

What appears on your record can include:

• Arrests (even without conviction)

• Charges that were later dropped

• Summary offenses

• Misdemeanor and felony convictions

• Probation or court supervision history

Most of this information comes from the Pennsylvania State Police database or third-party background screening services.

Can Employers Discriminate Based on Criminal Records?

Pennsylvania law does allow employers to consider criminal history, but there are limits:

• Under the Pennsylvania Criminal History Record Information Act (CHRIA), employers may only consider convictions that relate to the job duties.

• If an employer denies you a job based on your record, they must notify you and provide a copy of the background check.
  

Still, in reality, many employers avoid hiring anyone with a record, regardless of the law—especially in competitive industries or positions that involve trust, security, or handling money.

Which Charges Hurt Employment the Most?

While any record can raise red flags, these types of charges tend to hurt the most:

• Theft or fraud (jobs involving money or property)

• Drug offenses (especially in healthcare, education, or driving roles)

• Assault or domestic violence

• DUI (for driving jobs or professional licenses)

• Felonies of any kind

Even minor charges—like disorderly conduct or underage drinking—can create problems if they show up during a background check and aren’t explained or resolved.

How Criminal Records Impact Licenses and Professional Credentials

If you work in law, healthcare, education, or financial services, a criminal record can:

• Trigger review or suspension of your professional license

• Limit your ability to renew or apply for a license

• Affect clearances required for jobs involving children or sensitive populations
  

Licensing boards are legally allowed to consider criminal history, even for older offenses.

What Can You Do to Protect Your Employment Opportunities?

This is where expungement, record sealing, and pardon services come in. Depending on your case and history, you may be eligible to:

Expunge Your Record

• Removes arrests or charges that did not result in a conviction

• Available for summary offenses (after 5 years without arrest)

• Often available to those who completed ARD or a diversion program

Seal Your Record (Limited Access)

• Applies to some misdemeanors after 10 years without reoffending

• Makes your record invisible to most employers

• Still visible to law enforcement and certain government agencies

Apply for a Governor’s Pardon

• Available for those with old felony or misdemeanor convictions

• Can lead to full expungement after a successful pardon

How I Help Clients Clear Their Record

As a criminal defense attorney with over 30 years of experience in Pennsylvania, I don’t stop working for you once the case is closed.

I regularly help former clients:

• File for expungement or limited access

• Seal records that qualify under Pennsylvania’s Clean Slate law

• Apply for pardons when appropriate

• Navigate job applications and background checks

Don’t let one mistake—or even a dismissed charge—stand in the way of your future. In many cases, we can clean up your record and give you a fresh start.

Final Thought: You Deserve a Second Chance

Whether you're applying for your first job, seeking a promotion, or trying to switch careers, a criminal record shouldn’t define your future. With the right legal guidance, you may be able to erase past mistakes and protect your opportunities. Let me help you explore every option to secure your future. Reach out if you need a criminal defense attorney in West Chester, PA. Contact Mark D. Hauser, Attorney at Law today for a confidential case evaluation.