When a person is convicted of a crime, they must pay their debt to society for that crime in some way. Depending on the circumstances, the debt may be paid in financial penalties, loss of driving privileges, probation, or for more serious crimes, imprisonment. After the debt is paid, the person is supposed to return to society and continue their life. Hopefully, the pain of paying the penalty will deter future criminal activity.  

Unfortunately, the criminal justice system is not perfect. Often, a person convicted of a crime may continue to suffer negative consequences long after the official debt to society has been paid. It is important for a person accused of a crime to understand how a criminal conviction may impact their life.  Employment, educational opportunities, finances, and family life can all be negatively impacted by a conviction.    

Employment

Whether an applicant had a criminal record has been a typical question used by prospective employers to screen job applicants. This approach resulted in many people with criminal records having great difficulty receiving job interviews. This demoralizing and counterproductive practice is now being reformed. The New Jersey Opportunity to Compete Act prohibits employers with more than 15 employees from asking applicants about their criminal history during the initial application process. The issue may still be in play for smaller employers. A criminal conviction can also cause someone to lose their job. Certain state employees, as well as individuals with professional licenses, are at risk of being fired after being convicted of a crime.

Finances

A domino effect can be experienced where the conviction directly or indirectly impacts finances. If the conviction imposes hefty fines, then paying that fine could pose a serious financial setback. Other less direct consequences can occur as in the instance of a suspended license. Consequences include increased car insurance costs, commuting costs, and even loss of a job. A conviction can also result in being underemployed and underpaid. 

Education

College applications also typically include questions about having a criminal record. Convictions related to disorderly persons or for felonies can be used to justify rejecting an applicant from admission. Sometimes, colleges expel or put students on probation if they were convicted of a crime.

Deportation

A person who is not a permanent citizen can be at risk of deportation if they are convicted of a violent crime. In addition, it is possible to be denied a green card, visa, or citizenship if convicted of a crime involving moral turpitude. 

Removal of Criminal Convictions from Record

There is a chance to remove certain criminal convictions from the record. Expungement requires petitioning the court, as well as waiting a significant period of time after the conviction has passed. In addition, certain crimes, such as sexual assault and robbery, can never be expunged. 

Haddonfield Criminal Lawyers at Aita Law, LLC Help Those Facing Criminal Charges

If you were accused of a crime, it is important to understand your rights to representation and use those rights to protect yourself. Our experienced Haddonfield criminal lawyers at Aita Law, LLC represent those accused of crimes and successfully achieve expungement of criminal records for our clients. Call us at 856-287-7800 or complete an online form for a free consultation. Located in Haddonfield, New Jersey, we represent clients throughout South Jersey, including Cherry Hill and Camden County.