Can a felon get an apartment in New Jersey?

Can a felon get an apartment in New Jersey?

Understanding the Challenges:

Individuals with felony records often encounter difficulties when searching for housing due to the stigma associated with their past criminal history. Landlords typically conduct background checks on prospective tenants, which may include criminal records. Having a felony conviction can significantly hinder the housing application process, posing a significant challenge for felons looking for an apartment in New Jersey.

Rights of Felons:

It is important to note that felons do have rights when it comes to housing. The Fair Housing Act (FHA), a federal law, prohibits landlords from discriminating against individuals based on their criminal history. This means that landlords cannot automatically deny a rental application solely because an applicant has a felony record.

However, landlords can exercise discretion when evaluating rental applications. They may consider factors such as the nature and severity of the offense, the time that has passed since the conviction, and the applicant's post-conviction behavior. While this allows for some flexibility, it still presents challenges for felons looking to secure an apartment.

Potential Solutions:

1. Honest Communication: Felons can increase their chances of securing an apartment by being honest and proactive about their criminal history. Openly discussing the offense, demonstrating remorse, and highlighting steps taken to pursue rehabilitation can help landlords view the applicant in a more positive light.

2. Seeking Assistance: Felons can seek assistance from organizations that specialize in housing support for individuals with criminal records. These organizations can offer guidance, connect felons with landlords who are more open to renting to them, and provide resources to improve their overall application.

3. Expungement or Pardon: Felons who have completed their sentence and demonstrated their commitment to rehabilitation can explore options for expungement or obtaining a pardon. Although expungement erases the conviction from public records, it does not guarantee that landlords will not discover the offense. However, it can increase the chances of obtaining an apartment.

4. Connecting with Supportive Landlords: Some landlords may be more open to renting to felons, especially if they have a strong network of support or show evidence of rehabilitation. It can be beneficial for felons to connect with landlords who understand the challenges they face and are willing to give them a chance.

Conclusion:

While felons may encounter challenges when searching for an apartment in New Jersey, they do have rights protected under the Fair Housing Act. By being honest, seeking assistance, exploring options for expungement or pardon, and connecting with supportive landlords, felons can increase their chances of securing an apartment. It is crucial to remember that each case is unique and the decision ultimately lies with the landlord. Therefore, felons must be persistent in their search and remain committed to their rehabilitation journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, it is possible for a felon with a criminal record to rent an apartment in New Jersey. However, it may make the process more challenging as landlords often conduct background checks and consider criminal history as a factor in their decision.

No, it is illegal for landlords in New Jersey to deny an apartment solely based on a person's criminal record. The New Jersey Law Against Discrimination (LAD) prohibits housing discrimination based on criminal records, unless it poses a direct threat to the safety and well-being of others.

Yes, a felon can increase their chances of getting an apartment in New Jersey by taking certain steps. They can provide character references, offer to pay a higher security deposit, demonstrate rehabilitation efforts, and have a stable income to showcase their ability to pay rent.

Yes, there are housing programs in New Jersey specifically designed to assist felons in finding housing. One such program is the New Jersey Reentry Corporation, which helps individuals transitioning from incarceration to secure stable housing, among other reentry services.

Generally, a landlord in New Jersey cannot reject a felon's application solely based on a non-violent criminal record. The New Jersey LAD protects individuals from housing discrimination based on criminal history, unless the conviction poses a direct threat to the safety and well-being of others.