Employment Barriers

Employment Barriers After a Criminal Conviction in Missouri and Illinois

A criminal conviction in Missouri or Illinois can create serious challenges when it comes to finding and maintaining employment. Even after you have completed your sentence, your record can continue to affect job opportunities, career advancement, and financial stability for years.

For many individuals, employment barriers are one of the most immediate and long-lasting collateral consequences of a criminal case. Understanding these risks is critical when evaluating your options and building a defense strategy.

At Combs Waterkotte, our skilled criminal defense lawyers in Missouri and Illinois work to protect not just your freedom—but your ability to move forward with your career and your life.

How a Criminal Record Affects Employment

Most employers in Missouri and Illinois conduct background checks as part of the hiring process. In fact, an estimated 95% of them do just that. These background checks typically include 7 years of criminal and judicial records, but can go back even further depending on local laws. A criminal record can raise concerns about trust, reliability, or liability—regardless of the circumstances of the case.

Even a single conviction can:

• Disqualify you from certain jobs
• Reduce your chances of getting interviews
• Limit opportunities for promotion
• Impact professional reputation

In some industries, these barriers are not just practical—they are written into law or licensing requirements.

Types of Employment Barriers

The following are types of employment barriers seen in both Missouri and Illinois:

Background Checks

Employers frequently use criminal background checks to screen applicants. Depending on the nature of the offense, a conviction may appear as a red flag—even if it occurred years or decades ago.

Automatic Disqualification

Certain convictions can automatically disqualify individuals from specific roles, particularly in industries that involve trust, safety, or access to vulnerable populations.

Professional Licensing Restrictions

Many careers require licenses, certifications, or background clearance. A criminal conviction can lead to denial, suspension, or revocation of these credentials.

Employer Discretion

Even when there is no legal restriction, employers may still choose not to hire someone with a criminal record. This can make it difficult to compete in the job market.

Missouri vs. Illinois Employment Laws

Both Missouri and Illinois recognize the impact of criminal records on employment, but they approach the issue differently:

• Illinois: Illinois has enacted laws that limit how employers can use criminal history, including the Job Opportunities for Qualified Applicants Act, also known as “Ban the Box.” This law delays when some employers can ask about convictions. Employers must also consider factors such as the nature of the offense and how much time has passed.
• Missouri: Missouri does not have the same statewide restrictions as Illinois, but employers are still subject to federal anti-discrimination laws, most notably Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and may consider criminal history when making hiring decisions.

Despite these protections, employment barriers remain a significant challenge in both states.

Industries Most Affected by Criminal Records

While a criminal record can impact any job search, some industries are particularly restrictive:

• Healthcare: Nursing, caregiving, and medical roles often require clean background checks
• Education: Teachers, staff, and volunteers must meet strict requirements
• Financial Services: Banking and finance jobs often exclude applicants with fraud or theft convictions
• Government Positions: Many roles require background clearance or security checks
• Childcare and Social Services: Convictions involving violence or abuse can disqualify applicants

Do Misdemeanors Affect Employment?

Many people assume only felony convictions impact employment, but misdemeanor offenses can still create barriers—especially for roles requiring trust or responsibility.

For example:

• Theft-related offenses can impact retail or financial jobs
• Drug offenses may affect healthcare or transportation roles
• Domestic violence charges can impact jobs involving vulnerable individuals

How Long Do Employment Barriers Last?

In many cases, a criminal record can affect employment indefinitely in both Missouri and Illinois. While the impact may lessen over time, background checks can continue to reveal convictions unless they are sealed or expunged.

The duration of these barriers depends on:

• The type of offense
• Whether it is a misdemeanor or felony
• State laws and employer policies
• Whether the record is eligible for sealing or expungement

Can Employment Barriers Be Reduced?

In some cases, there are ways to reduce the impact of a criminal record:

• Record sealing or expungement: Illinois offers broader options for sealing records, while Missouri allows expungement for certain offenses.
• Certificates of relief or rehabilitation: These may help demonstrate fitness for employment.
• Strategic case outcomes: Avoiding certain charges or convictions can minimize long-term impact.

The most effective way to reduce employment barriers is to address the issue early—before a conviction is finalized.

Why Legal Strategy Matters for Your Future Employment

When facing criminal charges, it is easy to focus only on immediate penalties. But the long-term impact on your career can be just as significant.

At Combs Waterkotte, our goal is to help you protect not just your rights—but your ability to move forward. We consider how each case outcome may affect your future, including:

• Your ability to find employment
• Your eligibility for licenses or certifications
• Your long-term earning potential

Frequently Asked Questions About Employment Barriers in Missouri & Illinois

Can I get a job with a criminal record in Missouri or Illinois?

Yes, but it may be more difficult. Many employers conduct background checks, and certain convictions can limit opportunities. However, some laws—especially in Illinois—provide protections and require employers to consider the circumstances of the offense.

Do employers always see my criminal record?

Not always. It depends on the type of background check and whether your record has been sealed or expunged. Without record relief, most convictions will appear on standard background checks.

Will a misdemeanor affect my ability to get hired in Missouri or Illinois?

Yes, it can. While misdemeanors are less serious than felonies, they can still raise concerns for employers—especially if the offense relates to the job.

Can I be denied a job because of a criminal conviction?

In many cases, yes. Employers may deny employment based on criminal history, particularly if the offense is relevant to the position. However, some laws require employers to consider factors like the age of the conviction and its relevance.

Can I remove a conviction from my record?

In some cases, yes. Illinois allows for record sealing and expungement in certain situations, while Missouri offers expungement for qualifying offenses. These options can help reduce employment barriers.

Does a pending charge affect employment?

It can. Some employers may consider pending charges when making hiring decisions, and certain jobs may require disclosure of ongoing cases.

What jobs are hardest to get with a criminal record?

Jobs in healthcare, education, finance, government, and childcare are often the most restrictive due to background check requirements and licensing rules.

Concerned About Collateral Consequences? Speak With a Combs Waterkotte Criminal Defense Lawyer Today

If you are facing criminal charges in Missouri or Illinois, your future employment could be at risk. The decisions made in your case can impact your career for years to come.

Call Combs Waterkotte at (314) 900-HELP or contact us online for a free, confidential consultation. We will help you understand your options and fight to protect your future.