Asked 5/18/2016 – Tyler, TX

How do I answer the question have you ever received deferred adjudication on a job application? My record states that, DEFENDANT DISCHARGED FROM DEFERRED ADJUDICATION for FRAUD DESTROY REMOVAL CONCEALMENT WRITING. It was a situation where I was guilty by association, I was with a “so called” friend who removed the price tag and replaced it with a cheaper price. Due to the fact that I did not walk away, or remove myself from her presences, I was taken to jail and charged with the same offence. On the initial court day, I was told that I could plea out and the offence would be dropped after I completed the DEFERRED ADJUDICATION. I had no way to hire an attorney, or consult with one. The DA’s office made it sound like as long as I did this, it would be no big deal. Now I am finding out that is not the case. It also shows that my FINAL PLEADING was guilty. How do I explain this on an application? It also shows it was a Class a MISDEMEANOR. I am in desperate need of a job, I just do not know how to explain my circumstances.

Answer

My experience is most job applicants are denied or shortly terminated after employment not for any past history, but for lying on the job application. The question is straightforward and you know the answer. Your prior case was for fraud. Now you want to make misrepresentations on this job application. This cycle must end if you are to build your life and start a career. Contact a local attorney about filing a petition for non-disclosure, but you must break the habit of lying and cheating because you see no alternative. Rely on the truth; you may have short term setbacks, but it’s the only way to get your life in order.