When you’re in college and throughout your life, it’s important to remember that your actions today can have long-lasting consequences. Staying out of legal trouble is not just about avoiding jail time; it’s about protecting your future career opportunities.
Many employers run extensive background checks before making a hiring decision. Even a minor infraction can raise red flags and may prevent you from getting a job or being accepted into graduate or professional programs. For certain fields, like healthcare, finance, education, or law enforcement, a criminal record can automatically disqualify you from employment or licensure.
Criminal cases don’t just disappear when you graduate or move to a new city. Once on your record, they can follow you for life, showing up in background checks whenever you apply for a job, internship, or even housing. Employers often view a criminal record as a sign of poor judgment or risk, even if you were never convicted.
Even if a case doesn’t lead to jail time, the consequences can still disrupt your professional life. Court dates, legal fees, and possible probation can interfere with work or classes, and some employers may choose to terminate an employee who is facing legal trouble. Missing work due to court appearances or serving a sentence can lead to lost income and job loss.
Unfortunately, people with criminal records face higher unemployment rates and often experience discrimination in the hiring process. While some employers do offer second chances, it’s always better to avoid putting yourself in that position.
The bottom line: the more serious you are about your career, the more you should protect it by staying out of legal trouble. Make choices today that your future self will thank you for, and keep your record and your name clear.
Mallory Cain
Mallory is the Career Services Specialist at Southern Arkansas University. She graduated from SAU in 2021 with her BBA in Marketing and with her MBA in 2023.
