How a Criminal Record Can Impact Your Future

 Posted on May 25, 2023 in Criminal Defense

Having a criminal record can have far-reaching consequences that can seriously impact various aspects of a person's life. Whether the offense is minor or major, the repercussions can be significant and long-lasting. If you have been arrested and charged with a crime, it is important to both your freedom and your future to have a skilled criminal defense attorney advocating for you and ensuring your rights are protected. The following are some ways a criminal record can interfere with your future.

Employment

A criminal record can severely limit employment opportunities. Many employers conduct background checks, and having a criminal record can be a red flag that raises concerns about an individual's trustworthiness, reliability, and suitability for certain positions. This can result in difficulty in finding gainful employment and could lead to financial instability.

Housing

Having a criminal record can also affect housing prospects. Many landlords now conduct background checks on prospective tenants, and having a criminal record can make it challenging to secure a rental property. This can lead to housing discrimination and limited housing options, potentially forcing individuals with a criminal background into unstable or undesirable living situations.

Rights and Privileges

Another significant consequence is the loss of certain rights and privileges. Depending on the classification of the offense (misdemeanor or felony) and the nature of the charges, people with criminal records may face restrictions when it comes to voting rights, firearm ownership, and even the ability to obtain professional licenses.

Personal Well-Being

The stigma of a criminal record can also have a detrimental impact on a person’s emotional health. Facing roadblock after roadblock, they may develop feelings of low self-esteem, anxiety, and depression. This can also trigger a cycle of recidivism since these challenges and barriers can contribute to a sense of hopelessness and increase the likelihood of reoffending.

Studies have also shown that having a criminal record can perpetuate a cycle of poverty, as individuals with limited employment prospects are more likely to rely on government assistance and struggle to support themselves financially. This can also lead to a higher rate of recidivism.

Contact a Palo Alto Defense Attorney

If you have been arrested and charged with a crime, you need an aggressive San Jose, CA criminal lawyer advocating for you. Do not risk your future by trying to defend against these charges yourself or relying on a public defender. Call Fuller Law Firm at 408-234-7563 to schedule a free consultation and find out what type of defense Attorney Cory Fuller can provide.

Source:

https://www.americanprogress.org/article/criminal-record-shouldnt-life-sentence-poverty-2/