What Are the Consequences of a Criminal Conviction?
A criminal conviction can be devastating, given the possible consequences that you risk facing. The legal implications of a conviction include probation, hefty fines, and potential jail time. You also risk losing your voting rights and the right to carry a firearm. Lawyers from a law firm in Minnesota add that you could owe court costs, depending on the case specifics.
Long-Term Consequences
Additionally, a criminal conviction could also have various long-lasting impacts on several areas of your life, such as the following:
- Housing: Landlords often conduct background checks before approving prospective tenants. You could pose a credit risk if you have a criminal history, especially if you were convicted of a felony.
- Student loans: A criminal conviction doesn’t automatically make you ineligible for financial college aid but may impact your ability to access the funds. For example, a drug-related conviction, such as possession or sale of illegal drugs, could make you ineligible for assistance.
- Loans: If you have a criminal record, obtaining auto, home, or business loans could be difficult. Lenders may consider you a high-risk borrower based on your character.
- Sexual offender registry: If you’re convicted of certain sexual offenses, the state may require you to register as on a sexual offender register. The record could adversely limit where you live and affect your ability to get a job.
- Immigration status: St. Paul criminal defense attorneys highlight that a conviction could severely affect your immigration status if you’re an immigrant. You could be denied the right to enter or remain in the U.S., be denied citizenship, or face deportation.
- Custody: Judges consider the best interests of children when awarding custody. Your character could be questioned in a custody case if you have a criminal record.
If you have been charged with a crime in Minnesota, hire skilled criminal defense lawyers to help you beat the charges. They can strategize effectively to help you lessen the ramifications of a conviction.
Can a Criminal Conviction Impact Me Professionally?
The aftermath of a criminal conviction, whether a misdemeanor or felony, can filter into your professional life. If you’re a professional license holder in Minnesota, a criminal conviction may put you at more risk beyond the fines and potential jail time. Some of the professional licenses that can be affected by a criminal conviction are:
- Healthcare
- Law enforcement
- Legal services
- Financial services
- Commercial driver’s license
Additionally, if the court suspends your professional license due to a criminal conviction, acquiring employment in the future may be challenging. It may also be difficult to secure a federal job with requirements that require a clear background check.
What Happens to My Professional License After a Conviction?
Criminal defense attorneys in St. Paul say the aftermath of a criminal conviction can include but is not limited to, the following:
- Suspension or revocation of your license: The court can revoke or suspend your existing professional license.
- Denial of a license: The relevant licensing board may deny you a license based on your criminal record.
- Probation: You could be placed on probation with certain conditions depending on the case specifics.
- Administrative hearing: You could be required to attend an administrative hearing where the appropriate action will be determined.
- Disciplinary action: The specific disciplinary action imposed may vary based on the profession and the severity of the crime. In addition to license revocation or suspension, you may face fines or other penalties or be required to attend additional training or undergo monitoring.
What Are Some Licensing Considerations Related to Criminal Convictions?
When determining the appropriate action to take against you as a licensed professional, a licensing board may consider several factors, such as the following:
- The relationship between the crime and your profession: If the criminal charges you face directly relate to the duties and responsibilities of your profession, the licensing board may consider you a potential risk to public safety. For example, fraud could demonstrate that your customers are at risk of financial losses.
- Your previous disciplinary history: You risk more severe consequences if you have a history of disciplinary actions or misconduct.
- Type and severity of the crime: Felonies such as violent crimes, fraud, or drug crimes may have a more significant impact on your professional license, while low-level misdemeanors like traffic violations may not warrant severe consequences.
What are My Options if I’m Facing Criminal Charges?
You may be concerned about the potential impact of criminal charges if you hold a professional license. It’s paramount to seek legal assistance from experienced criminal defense lawyers in St. Pail for legal strategy.
Lawyers who understand licensing laws in Minnesota can help you understand your rights and evaluate your legal options. The case outcome will depend on various factors, and it’s crucial for skilled legal experts to help you navigate the nuances.
Avoiding the Consequences of a Criminal Conviction with the Help of a Skilled Defense Lawyer
A criminal conviction can have some unexpected yet devastating consequences affecting various aspects of your life. If you’re a licensed professional, you risk losing your license, meaning you can’t practice in your career or obtain any gainful employment in that field. If you’re facing criminal charges, it’s vital to use the services of skilled lawyers from a reputable law firm in Minnesota.
The Adams Law Firm, PLLC, hosts knowledgeable St. Paul criminal defense attorneys who can assess your case specifics. We understand that criminal charges can be stressful and overwhelming, and we want to help you avoid a conviction. A lot is at stake, so don’t go to battle alone. Call us at 651-240-9282 to schedule a FREE consultation.
