Benefits for Convicted Felons

Those convicted of a felony still have the benefits of school programs and jobs. Discriminating against a convicted felon is not allowed, and laws have been passed to keep this from happening. The benefits of these laws make it easy for a convicted felon to readjust to society, and lift back up what they had once let down.

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Identification

Any person who has been found guilty by a grand jury and the court of law for committing a serious crime is considered a convicted felon. The person may be incarcerated due to their conviction or placed on some type of probation or supervision for a certain period of time. Even upon release from prison or probation, the conviction will remain on his permanent record.

Voting

Voting is a benefit that has been taken away from convicted felons in some states, but in others the right may be restored. In several states, convicted felons can vote in all political elections as long as they were not convicted of a crime during the year that the election is taking place. Obviously, you cannot be incarcerated and submit your vote. In Connecticut, for example, you have to provide papers showing discharge of confinement, and if eligible, parole documentation.

Employment

Getting a job and being a convicted felon can be tough. Most applications ask if you have ever been convicted of a crime. You must list all felony convictions, or your application will be nonvalid. Typically, though, some employers are not allowed to base their decision on hiring an individual on a conviction. This is why the application will have in fine print that having a felony conviction does not necessarily disqualify you for the position you are applying for. However, a 2004 Equal Employment Opportunity Commission letter concluded that the practice of barring felons can be maintained if employers can show a proper business need.

Education and Certification Programs

Convicted felons who are incarcerated may not be able to attend school or go through a certification training of their choice. They have the benefit of attending school in prison, as well as getting certified in different areas. In Ohio, for example, the Dayton Correctional Institution allows convicted felons to receive their GEDs, as well take college programs through Sinclair Community College. Ross Correctional Institution in Ohio offers vocational programs, such as barbering, which allows convicted felons to earn a barber license. These programs are benefits for the convicted felon, made available to help them adapt once they are released back into society.

Firearms

Convicted felons typically have their rights to own or carry a firearm taken away from them. Now, some convicted felons have who has been pardoned can have the benefit of carrying a firearm, just like all law-abiding citizens who were not convicted of a crime or felony. Those whose states have restored their civil rights also are allowed to carry firearms.