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Can a company terminate me for a felony on my background check if they hired me prior to checking it

Can a company terminate me for a felony on my background check if they hired me prior to checking it

Q: How long does a background check take after an offer?

The duration of a background check can vary but typically takes anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks. Factors such as the depth of the check and the responsiveness of previous employers or institutions can affect the timeline.

Q: Do you get a job offer before or after a reference check?

Employers may conduct reference checks either before or after making a job offer. Some companies prefer to check references after extending an offer to ensure the candidate is a good fit, while others may do so as part of the initial vetting process.

Q: How do you answer 'have you ever been convicted of a felony'?

When answering this question, be honest. If you have a felony conviction, it is generally advisable to disclose it, especially if asked directly. You may also want to explain the circumstances and highlight any rehabilitation efforts or skills relevant to the job.

Q: Does a job offer come before a background check?

A job offer can come before or after a background check, depending on the employer's hiring process. Some employers may extend a conditional offer that is contingent upon passing the background check.

Q: What does it mean when an employer asks for a background check?

When an employer requests a background check, they are seeking to verify your identity, employment history, criminal record, and other relevant information. This process helps employers assess the suitability of candidates for the position.

Full question:

I recently received a job offer. Prior to receiving the offer, the company requested my date of birth and social security number for the purpose of conducting a background check. I have a domestic battery felony on my record, but I have not filled out an employment application and therefore did not have the opportunity to list the felony on an application. If my offer is not contingent on the background check, and I accept the offer and start working, can the company terminate me after I accept this offer if they decide to run a check after my employment started?

Category: Employment
Date: 04/07/2025
State: Indiana

Answer:

Indiana is considered an employment at-will state. At-will employees may be terminated for any reason or no reason, so long as it's not illegal or a violation of public policy (e.g., race or sex discrimination).

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

Do background checks happen before or after a job offer?

Background checks can happen both before and after a job offer, depending on the employer's policy. Some companies conduct them as part of the hiring process before extending an offer, while others may wait until after the offer is accepted. It's important to clarify with the employer when they plan to conduct the check.