Criminal Defense Lawyer
Did you know that even if you are found not guilty at trial when accused of a criminal offense, your record may still contain the criminal charge? A criminal defense lawyer from a firm like West Palm Beach law firm Farkas and Crowley can explain why, in many jurisdictions, the same is true even if the charge is dropped before trial. In some cases, you may be able to petition the court to expunge the records after carrying the accusation on your files for several years. That is why it is so important to understand how a criminal conviction or criminal record can haunt you into the future. You may need to find out if your record can be expunged.
1. Custody
When children are involved, the court must rule in their best interest. If you have a criminal record, especially if it involves violence or domestic abuse, the court may take your custody rights away. Whether it is a felony or misdemeanor, the courts must protect the children instead of your parental rights when it comes to criminal history.
2. Weapons
Many states hold that you lose the right to own a firearm if you have a criminal conviction on your record. This is because most criminals are thought to experience recidivist tendencies: They are viewed as at-risk of repeating their criminal behavior. To protect the public, anyone with a felony or Class A misdemeanor is denied the right to carry a weapon.
3. Employment
Today, more than ever before, employers run checks on potential employees before hiring them. Since most employers are reluctant to hire someone with a felony on their record, even if there was no conviction, they may choose not to hire you when it comes to safeguarding the integrity of their company.
4. Housing
Rental and leasing companies also have the right to run background checks on you if you apply to rent their property. If the criminal record is recent or reported as a felony, the landlord can refuse to rent to you.
5. Education
Yes, a criminal record can keep you from getting into the college of your dreams and that graduate school you always wanted to attend. You should also know that both the college and the federal government may restrict your access to financial aid if you have a Class A misdemeanor or felony on your record.
6. Licenses
Depending on the type of license you are applying for, even a misdemeanor conviction can hamper your ability to obtain the document. Even a minor misdemeanor conviction can keep you from getting a healthcare or driver’s license.
The above list does not include all the ways a criminal conviction may impact your life, but it does give you an example of how your record can alter your choice. That is why it is critical to consult with a criminal defense lawyer and ask about having your criminal record expunged as soon as possible.
