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Resources for Ex-offender Job Seekers

There are many government and community agencies ready to help ex-offenders find employment and job training. Here is a list of just a few Minnesota and national resources.

You might be able to get all or part of your criminal records cleared so it is no longer a barrier to their job search. Find out how to get information about your criminal record.

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  1. Minnesota Legal Resources

    LawHelp MN.org
    Lists free and low-cost legal assistance for low-income Minnesotans. Information is provided by the Minnesota Legal Services Coalition (MLSC), Probono.net, Minnesota State Bar Association (MSBA) and the Legal Services Corporation (LSC).

    State Public Defender
    Public defenders are appointed when a person appearing in criminal court cannot afford to hire an attorney. You do not get to choose who will handle your case. To learn more about the public defender appointment process, contact the District Court Administrator or Public Defender's office in the district where you are facing charges.


  2. National Employment Resources

    Employment Information Handbook for Ex-Offenders, U.S. Department of Labor (753KB, .pdf)
    Helps recently released ex-offenders prepare for a job search and transition back into life.

    ExOffenderReentry.com
    Lists articles that help ex-offenders with interviewing, networking, and other parts of the job search. Check the Job Search Tips section.

    National H.I.R.E. Network
    Provides training and technical assistance to agencies working to improve the employment prospects for people with criminal records. Lists legal and community resources available to ex-offenders in each state.

    The National Institute of Corrections
    Lists articles and studies related to employment and other issues for juvenile and adult ex-offenders.

    Reintegration of Ex-Offenders, U.S. Department of Labor (186KB, .pdf)
    Lists government and community resources to help ex-offenders find employment, job training, and other assistance.


  3. National Legal Resources

    American Civil Liberties Union
    Defends the rights and liberties guaranteed to everyone in the country by the Constitution and laws of the United States. Advocates and advises people regarding criminal justice, prisoner's rights, and other issues.