Question from a reader:
If I make a mistake while working part-time and have to pay damages, will I have a criminal record?

Considering Damages and Criminal Records When Making Mistakes in Part-Time Jobs

When working part-time, anyone can make mistakes. This is especially true in jobs like service or manufacturing, where there is a high expectation to meet others’ demands. In
such tense environments, it is not uncommon to make unexpected mistakes. Now, if you are asked to pay damages due to that mistake, whether or not it results in a criminal record is a very concerning point.

Legal Explanation

First, let’s establish the basic legal concepts regarding damages. Damages refer to monetary compensation for harm caused to others. Generally, if a part-time worker accidentally breaks a product or causes inconvenience to a customer while on the job, the employer may seek compensation for those damages. In this case, the claim for damages is a civil matter and differs from criminal cases, so fundamentally, it does not result in a criminal record. Civil cases are the realm of law that resolves disputes between individuals, while criminal cases are viewed from the perspective of crimes against society as a whole.

Considering Specific Examples

Let’s consider a real-life case. For instance, when I was a university student, I worked part-time at a restaurant. On a busy Saturday night, while I was cooking in the kitchen, I accidentally burned a pot. The dish that was supposed to be served to customers was ruined, and the manager told me, “You might be asked to pay damages for this.” In my case, the cost of the burned pot was only a few thousand yen, and I never actually faced a claim for damages. My employer covered that cost. However, this was merely a stroke of luck, and there are cases where compensation may indeed arise.

Questions About Criminal Records

Now, to return to the topic, paying damages does not automatically result in a criminal record. For example, if you make a mistake while working part-time and cause harm to someone, that person can claim damages. However, it is fundamentally not treated as a criminal case. A criminal record is established only when a crime has been committed. For instance, if someone intentionally steals money or commits fraud, it would be treated as a criminal case, and there is a possibility of a criminal record. However, damages arising from business mistakes or negligence remain within the civil realm, thus not leading to a criminal record.

Psychological Impact and Coping Strategies

Of course, making mistakes can be accompanied by mental stress. Particularly when you have to pay damages, that anxiety can increase. It is natural to worry that you may have made a significant error. I myself have felt that way several times during my part-time job. I was concerned about how others perceived me and fell into self-loathing. However, such experiences are also part of growth. There is much to learn from failure, and it serves as a lesson to avoid repeating the same mistakes next time.

Conclusion

In conclusion, damages resulting from mistakes in part-time jobs generally do not lead to a criminal record. This is clear from a legal perspective, and understanding the difference between civil and criminal matters is important. Moreover, I believe that gaining experience without fearing mistakes is the path to improving oneself in the future. While working part-time, you have the opportunity to interact with many people and grow as an individual. It is essential to maintain a positive attitude and not fear failure. Next time you find yourself in a similar situation, remember to understand the law and respond calmly. Let’s continue to challenge ourselves to gain experiences that contribute to our growth.