NCJ Number
207486
Date Published
2002
Length
65 pages
Annotation
This manual provides job counselors and caseworkers with detailed instructions for how to assist individuals with criminal records and histories of alcoholism and drug dependence navigate the various obstacles to their finding and retaining jobs in California.
Abstract
The manual begins with a review of the specific Federal and State laws that prohibit employment discrimination on the basis of disability and criminal justice status. It focuses on illegal pre-employment inquiries by potential employers. The manual's second section provides guidance on ensuring that criminal records are accurate and managed so as to reduce any disadvantage the record may pose in seeking employment. Topics discussed include special dispositions of charges and obtaining and "cleaning up" arrest and conviction records. The third section provides guidance to the counselor in working with the client prior to a job search in order to prepare for preventing employment discrimination. Instruction is offered in learning about the job and the hiring process, learning about the client, and questions to ask the client in the pre-application interview. This is followed by a section that discusses how to prevent and counter discrimination by an employer in the course of applying for a job. Topics discussed are the job application, the disclosing of alcohol or drug dependence or criminal history, how to demonstrate rehabilitation in compliance with disability law, and dealing with some special problems. The concluding section focuses on dealing with an employer's refusal to hire a client. Mechanisms discussed in challenging the rejection are an informal resolution, administrative appeals to public employers and occupational licensing agencies, legal challenges to discrimination against individuals in recovery from alcoholism or drug dependence, and legal challenges to discrimination against ex-offenders. Finally, advice is offered on when to consult an attorney.