Second Chances in Hiring: Can a Settled Criminal Case Affect Career Opportunities?

I want to know if any person had a criminal case in the past but now it has been settled, and everything has been closed from the court side. Would a private company give him another chance to start his career?

It might depend on perception and policies of the organizations. Also, a personal guarantee or references from a reputed personality might help the candidate secure employment. It's important that this candidate proves his sincerity, dedication, and resolve to lead an honest career to the satisfaction of the employer beyond doubt. But nothing is impossible.

Court Acquittal and Candidate's Past

In case the court has acquitted the accused, why was there a need to bring up the candidate's past? Also, why was the criminal case filed in the first place? Was it in his personal capacity, or did any of his past employers file a suit against him? How will any recruiter or HR personnel from his future company come to know about the criminal case?

Context of Criminal Cases in Politics

On another note, in the recently held parliamentary elections, the people of India elected 43% of MPs who have criminal cases pending against them. Some of them have even become union ministers, and a few MPs are currently out on bail. Given this context, it is puzzling why anyone would object to a closed case.

Advice for the Candidate

My suggestion is for the candidate to remain silent and not disclose the details of the criminal case. If he had to pause work due to the case, he can provide another reason for his unemployment during that period.

Thanks,
Dinesh Divekar

Determining the Context of the Question

What is required first is to determine on whose behalf this question has been raised. If it is from a prospective private employer, I would request them to be more considerate in addition to understanding the actual legal position.

A young man may find himself involved in a criminal case and facing a judicial trial, whether by chance or intentionally, for a variety of reasons such as criminal trespass, traffic violations, street brawls, dowry issues, participating in political agitations, or even homicide. However, when he is tried and subsequently discharged or acquitted by a competent Court of Law, the matter is considered resolved.

Employment Opportunities for Ex-Convicts

Even ex-convicts are offered jobs in government organizations as a form of rehabilitation, depending on their behavior during the period of punishment. Therefore, in the case of a prospective appointee who was previously accused in a criminal case and had the charges judicially "settled" before being selected for the job, as described by the poster, it can be inferred that he has no criminal background that would affect his employability at present.