Thomas C. Grajek | September 4, 2026 | Lakeland Criminal Law
Even though it is less serious than a felony, a misdemeanor conviction can follow you long after the court case ends. For someone looking for work in Lakeland or elsewhere in Florida, a criminal record may come up during the hiring process and affect how an employer views an application. How much it matters can depend on the offense, the position, and whether the employer conducts a background check.
Knowing what employers may see—and how Florida law treats criminal records in certain employment settings—can help you better understand the potential impact of a misdemeanor conviction.
Will a Misdemeanor Show Up on an Employment Background Check?
A misdemeanor conviction can appear on a criminal background check. However, what an employer sees can vary based on the screening service used, the records searched, and the type of background check requested.
It may make sense, then, to disclose the conviction if asked about it before the background check. Job applications do not all ask about criminal history in the same way. Before answering a question, look closely at exactly what information the employer is requesting.
Answering a broader question than the employer actually asked may result in unnecessary disclosure of information. Providing an inaccurate answer, however, could raise concerns later if the employer receives conflicting information from a background check.
For that reason, it is generally not safe to assume that an employer will not learn about an offense or will overlook a misdemeanor simply because it is not a felony.
Can a Florida Employer Refuse to Hire You Because of a Misdemeanor?
Florida law treats certain public employment differently from private employment. Under Florida Statute § 112.011, a person generally cannot be disqualified from employment with the state, its agencies, political subdivisions, or municipalities solely because of a prior conviction.
There are exceptions. A felony or first-degree misdemeanor that directly relates to the position sought may affect eligibility. Florida law also provides exceptions involving certain positions in areas such as law enforcement, corrections, firefighting, security, and public safety.
Private-sector employment involves different considerations. As a result, the effect of a misdemeanor conviction may vary considerably based on the employer and the type of work involved.
What Types of Misdemeanors Can Create Employment Problems?
The nature of a misdemeanor often matters when an employer evaluates a criminal record. Some offenses may raise concerns because they appear connected to the duties of a particular job.
Depending on the position, an employer may pay closer attention to offenses involving:
- Theft or dishonesty
- Assault or battery
- Domestic violence
- Drug offenses
- DUI
- Fraud or financial misconduct
For example, an offense involving dishonesty may receive greater scrutiny when someone applies for a position involving cash, accounts, or sensitive financial information. The same offense may have less relevance to an unrelated job.
Can a Misdemeanor Affect a Professional License?
For people working in licensed occupations, employment may not be the only concern. A criminal record can sometimes affect an application for a state license, certification, or other professional credential.
Depending on the profession and circumstances, a misdemeanor may become relevant when someone attempts to:
- Apply for an initial professional license
- Renew an existing license or certification
- Complete a required background screening
- Qualify for certain regulated occupations
Florida law places limits on how certain criminal convictions may be used in occupational licensing decisions. However, the rules differ depending on the profession, agency, offense, and relationship between the conviction and the work being performed.
Does a “Withhold of Adjudication” Mean You Have No Criminal Record?
A withhold of adjudication is often misunderstood. In qualifying Florida cases, a court may withhold adjudication rather than formally adjudicating a defendant guilty. That does not necessarily mean the arrest and court case disappear from the person’s criminal history.
This distinction can matter when completing a job application. One employer may ask specifically about convictions, while another may ask a broader question about criminal cases or pending charges.
Reading the exact wording of the question is important. An arrest, a withholding of adjudication, and a conviction are not necessarily the same thing.
Contact a Lakeland Criminal Defense Attorney at Grajek Criminal Defense Attorneys for Help Today
A misdemeanor charge can have consequences that extend beyond fines, probation, or other court-imposed penalties. When employment or a professional license matters to your future, it can be useful to understand those potential consequences before making important decisions about a pending criminal case.
Grajek Criminal Defense Attorneys represents people facing misdemeanor and other criminal charges in Lakeland and throughout Polk County. Protect your career plans by discussing your circumstances during a confidential consultation with a Lakeland criminal defense lawyer. Call us today.
We serve all areas in Lakeland, Polk County, and throughout Florida. Visit our convenient location:
Grajek Criminal Defense Attorneys
112 E Poinsettia St, Lakeland, FL 33803
(863) 688-4606
