This has been a lonnnnggggg year for me. I've been down before, but never this long. I've been unemployed since December, 2004 and it seems like no one is willing to give me a chance to work in ANY field. I use to work with MRDD (mentally retarded, developmentally disabled) but I lost my job when I was accused of abuse. To make a long story short, I was on the verge of losing everything (my children and my freedom) so the lawyer advised me to take a plea bargain that reduced the charges to misdemeanor assault. I'm 38 years old and never had so much as a traffic ticket, but now I fear that potential employers do background checks and see ASSAULT and look no further. I'm used to being independent and working for what I want, this experience has me totally dependent and it feels like I'm dying a little more every day. Any suggestions for help would be apprecisted...I really don't know what to do at this point, my children are the only blood family I have and I try not to let them see me when I feel like breaking down. Linney B.

Linney - sorry to hear about your situation. Welcome to SFV. I think you may be right about the background checks. You probably need to consider another line of work. Have you investigated that option? When working with children or the disabled, a company cannot risk having an employee with an assault charge on their record and it has only been a year. You may have to wait several years, if ever, before they consider hiring you again.

Sorry I couldn't be more helpful. Try to stay strong. As you said you've been down before, and like then, this too shall pass.

Netsurfr... Thanks for taking the time to reply to my post, I am as a matter of fact considering another field. I have some retail experience but I was trying to use that as a last resort. I have a couple of training programs I am trying to get in but I'm on a waiting list, and I haven't totally dismissed the idea of starting back at the local community college. I have a lot of interest, I just have to decide which direction to focus my energy. I've never had much of a cupport system in my life so all things that I haven't experienced yet tend to scare me. I know I can do anything I put my mind to, it's getting started that's the hard part. Linney

Linney,
Welcome!
I am sorry you found yourself in this situation. I wish I had very profound thoughts and information for you to try. I do agree with Net about trying another line of work for now.
One other thought: Although it was not your fault or abuse on your part you may want to try going to classes or counseling for this type of situation. At that point continue networking with people in the field. Try to get into the line of work through your network of people with personal references rather than a blind resume. That way you would get your foot in the door and explain the situation if necessary and the steps you have taken to never find yourself in the position again. You may at that point be able to educate other people in the field so they can avoid the same type of situation you find yourself in now.
I wish you luck and hope this gives you a bit of help.
Welcome again.
Carla