What does life look like after you’re convicted of a crime? A criminal record can affect nearly every aspect of your life, from your career to your driver’s licence. These consequences illustrate why it’s so important to have a highly-qualified lawyer to represent you in court.
Once you have a criminal record, it remains with you for the rest of your life. The police will have information like your DNA, fingerprints, and photographs. We’re going to cover how a conviction affects various areas of your life:
Emploment
The job market these days is highly competitive. It’s tough enough to find employment without a criminal record. But if you’ve been convicted of an offence, you’ll have an even harder time. If you were employed before your conviction, you may lose your job after pleading guilty.
There are certain sectors you cannot work in with a criminal record. Employers will request a vulnerable sector check for any position where the employee has authority over someone who is vulnerable. Any jobs that involve caring for those who are sick, children, or seniors are typically unavailable to those with criminal records.
Individuals with a criminal record may be disqualified from certain educational programs, such as child care, security, finances, or medicine.
If you are seeking volunteer work, volunteer agencies may decline your application based on your criminal record.
Housing
When you apply to rent an apartment, house, or condo, the landlord or property manager will use a tenant screening process. They will request a criminal background check to see if you’ve had any previous convictions. If they find that you have a record, they may decline your rental application.
Family
If you are interested in adopting a child, the adoption agency may request fingerprints first. Then, they will use this information to see if you have any suspensions for a sexual offence. If so, your application will be denied.
Travel
You may be denied access to another country if you are found guilty of an offence. These laws vary by country and by the nature of your conviction.
If you try to cross the American border, the border officer will likely ask you about your criminal record. They may declare you as inadmissible to the country.
Insurance
It’s important to be transparent about your criminal record with your insurance provider. If you withhold this information, they may reject your claim or cancel your insurance after finding out.
Be upfront about any previous convictions. Your insurer may decide not to work with you, or charge you a higher rate.
Finances
If you want to buy a house or seek higher education, then you may need a loan from a bank. However, some lenders may be hesitant to lend to those with a criminal record. They may be considered a high-risk individual who is less likely to pay the money back. As such, you may pay higher interest rates or be denied the loan.
Driving
After being convicted of an impaired driving offence, your licence will be suspended. The length of the suspension varies based on the severity of your offence. You may be required to complete a driving training program or rehabilitation program before you can drive again.
Were you wrongfully convicted of a crime? A criminal record can have long-lasting effects on your career, housing, and freedom.
At Brodsky Amy & Gould, our criminal lawyers can help you file an appeal to reclaim your life. Contact us today, and one of our lawyers will get back to you shortly.
