What Happens If You Have a Criminal Conviction?

A criminal conviction can have serious consequences that can impact your life for years to come. Whether it’s a misdemeanor or a felony, a criminal conviction can result in jail time, fines, and probation. How bad the consequences are will depend on the kind of conviction and how bad the crime was. Beyond the immediate legal consequences, having a criminal record can hurt your future job prospects, education, housing, and even your ability to travel.

Criminal charges that can lead to a conviction include DUI, theft offenses, sex crimes, violent crimes, and drug offenses. In this article, we will explore the potential consequences of having a criminal conviction and provide some guidance on how to move forward after a conviction.

Incarceration 

If you are convicted of a crime, you may be sentenced to serve time in jail or prison. The length of your sentence will depend on the nature of the offense and the laws in your jurisdiction.

Fines

A criminal conviction can result in significant fines, which can be imposed in addition to any jail time. Fines can be steep, and failing to pay them can lead to additional legal troubles.

Probation 

In some cases, a convicted person may be placed on probation instead of being sent to jail or prison. Probation involves a set of conditions that must be met, such as attending counseling or drug treatment, regularly reporting to a probation officer, and staying out of trouble. Violating probation can result in additional legal consequences.

Loss of Rights

A criminal conviction can result in the loss of certain rights, such as the right to vote, the right to own a firearm, and the right to serve on a jury. This can be a significant loss of civil rights that can impact your ability to participate in democracy.

Employment and Housing Difficulties

A criminal record can make it difficult to find employment or housing. Employers often conduct background checks on job candidates, and can be hesitant to hire people with criminal records, especially for jobs that require a lot of trust or require them to work with people who are vulnerable. Landlords often check the background of potential tenants, and having a criminal record can make it hard to find a place to live. Certain types of convictions may also make you ineligible for public housing.

Ineligibility for Certain Licenses and Certifications

Certain professions require licenses or certifications that may be off-limits to those with criminal convictions. For example, if you are convicted of a DUI, you may be ineligible to obtain a commercial driver’s license.

Difficulty Obtaining Loans and Credit

Having a criminal conviction on your record can also make it difficult to obtain loans or credit. Lenders may view individuals with criminal convictions as a higher risk and may be less likely to approve loan applications or extend credit.

Risk of Losing Custody of Your Children

If you are convicted of certain types of crimes, such as child abuse or neglect, you may be at risk of losing custody of your children.

Immigration Consequences

If you are not a U.S. citizen, a criminal conviction can result in deportation or other immigration consequences. Even a minor offense can have a significant impact on your family and your future immigration status in the United States.

What Can You Do If You Have a Criminal Conviction?

It’s important to remember that the consequences of a criminal conviction don’t end when you complete your sentence. A criminal record can follow you around for the rest of your life, potentially limiting your opportunities and making it difficult to move on from your past mistakes.

If you have been charged with a crime, it’s important to take the situation seriously and seek legal representation. An experienced criminal defense attorney can help you understand your options and come up with a defense strategy that can help lessen the consequences of a conviction.

Contact Purchase, George & Murphey, P.C. Today For a Free Consultation About Your Personal Injury Case

At Purchase, George & Murphey, P.C., we know that being convicted of a crime can be a life-changing event, and we’re here to help you navigate the complex legal landscape. Our team of highly experienced criminal defense attorneys has a proven track record of delivering results for our clients. We understand the serious impact that a criminal conviction can have on your life, and that’s why we’re committed to protecting your rights and your future. Whether you’re facing charges for a minor offense or a serious felony, we have the knowledge, skill, and experience to fight for the best possible outcome for your case.

We believe that every client deserves individualized attention and a strong defense. That’s why we take the time to understand your unique situation, develop a tailored strategy, and guide you through the criminal justice system every step of the way. Don’t wait to get the help you need. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with one of our experienced criminal defense attorneys. Let us put our expertise to work for you and help you defend your rights, protect your future, and secure the best possible outcome for your case.