[KY] Can I be arrested for lying on my resume?
Lying on a resume—especially about a degree—can have professional and potential legal consequences. Employers often terminate employment for dishonesty (KRS 341.370). Civil liability is typically only a concern if the misrepresentation caused harm or losses. Some industries with strict credential rules treat this more seriously.
Arrest is unlikely here, especially since the role doesn’t require that degree. The bigger risks are:
- Termination if the employer discovers the lie.
- Possible civil issues only if the misstatement caused actual harm or was tied to mandatory qualifications.
Best practices:
- Consider correcting your resume and starting clean.
- If you’ve already accepted, weigh whether to proactively disclose and clarify, understanding it could affect the offer but reduces future risk.
- Consult a local attorney if you’re concerned about specific exposure.
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Can I get in trouble for lying on my resume?
I understand your concern. Have you recently lied on your resume?
Yes.
What specifically did you lie about?
I said I have a degree.
Which state are you in?
Kentucky. I lied about having a degree. I attended college but didn’t finish. I also said I’d been a supervisor at a previous job. I was offered a warehouse lead job, and now I’m worried I could get into legal trouble. Could I be arrested if I take the job?
Lying on a resume—especially about a degree—can have professional and potential legal consequences. Employers often terminate employment for dishonesty (KRS 341.370). Civil liability is typically only a concern if the misrepresentation caused harm or losses. Some industries with strict credential rules treat this more seriously.
Arrest is unlikely here, especially since the role doesn’t require that degree. The bigger risks are:
- Termination if the employer discovers the lie.
- Possible civil issues only if the misstatement caused actual harm or was tied to mandatory qualifications.
Best practices:
- Consider correcting your resume and starting clean.
- If you’ve already accepted, weigh whether to proactively disclose and clarify, understanding it could affect the offer but reduces future risk.
- Consult a local attorney if you’re concerned about specific exposure.
Thank you.
