If you have been convicted of domestic violence in Illinois, you may have trouble getting a job in the health care field. However, that doesn’t mean that your career is over. In some situations, you may be able to obtain a health care worker waiver.
What is a health care worker waiver?
A health care worker waiver allows you to work in the health care field even with a domestic violence conviction on your record. This includes unlicensed workers, like assistants and students, as well as people who work in medical facilities even if they’re not in direct contact with patients. If you’re a licensed health care worker, you won’t need a waiver to practice medicine.
If you have one misdemeanor on your record, you may have to wait a year before applying for a waiver. If you have two, you’ll have to wait three years. If you have three or more convictions, you’ll have to wait at least five years before you can submit an application for a waiver. You’ll have to wait up to 10 years if you have a felony charge on your record. A criminal defense attorney could tell you more about your options after your conviction.
How could a conviction affect your record?
Depending on the seriousness of your conviction, you may have to put your entire career on hold. An attorney could help you get the conviction expunged after enough time has passed. However, it’s best to avoid getting a conviction on your record in the first place.
You may be able to defend yourself against domestic violence charges by working with an attorney. A lawyer could help you clear your name in court, enabling you to resume your career. If you do get convicted, you may end up with a reduced charge, like a misdemeanor instead of a felony.