Am I Going to Lose My Job?

This is one of the most common questions we receive from our clients, who are often understandably nervous about the consequences of having a criminal charge on their employment. Unfortunately, the answer to this question can be complicated and varies depending on the nature of the offense and the specific duties required of the employment. The short answer is that yes, someone convicted, or even accused of committing a crime, could end up losing his or her job as a result.

Texas is an At-Will Employment State

Like most states, Texas implements an at-will employment policy, which means that those without employment contracts in place, can legally be fired for any reason, as long as that reason isn’t unlawful. For instance, a person can be fired for showing up late to work or failing to fulfill job duties adequately. State and federal law, however, bar employers from firing employees for particular reasons, like discrimination based on race, age, gender, or sexual orientation. Furthermore, employees can’t be fired for exposing criminal activity or because an employee took family leave to which he or she was entitled. Otherwise, employers retain the right to fire their employees at will, which means that a person convicted of, or even just charged with a criminal offense could end up losing his or her job. Employers will sometimes include specific information about their hiring and firing policies in employee contracts and handbooks. If available, that will be the first place to check not only for reporting requirements, but also on the potential effects of a criminal allegation.

The Legal Representation You Deserve

Being convicted of a crime in Texas has a number of far reaching consequences for defendants, who could suffer damage to their personal relationships, end up in jail, or even lose their jobs. This in turn, can make it impossible to fulfill certain financial responsibilities, like paying rent, buying food, and hiring a defense lawyer. There are steps, however, that you can take to help shield yourself from such a consequence if you are charged with or convicted of a crime in Texas. To learn more, please reach out to The Law Offices of David C. Hardaway and set up a meeting with one of our dedicated San Marcos and Hays County, Texas criminal defense lawyers today. You can set up a meeting with a member of our legal team by calling 512-805-6613 or by sending us an online message.

Sources:

 efte.twc.texas.gov/pay_and_policies_general.html