When a person receives a criminal charge, they can face a variety of consequences as a result. While some of these consequences may be immediate, others can have long-lasting impacts that follow a person for the rest of their life. It is because of this that those facing criminal charges should retain the services of an experienced Bergen County criminal defense lawyer for assistance in protecting their future.
What are the Long-Term Effects of a Criminal Record?
When a person receives a criminal record, it can impact their lives in the following ways:
- Their ability to get and keep a job. A criminal record can limit the types of jobs a can get. This is because they will have to check “yes” when a job application asks if the applicant has ever been convicted of a crime. When this happens, it generally flags an application. Employers also usually conduct background checks. If an applicant lies, they can be disqualified from the job. In addition to this, those who have been convicted of a crime can get fired from their job.
- Criminal convictions can also affect child custody arrangements. For example, the court and a former spouse may use a criminal record against an individual as proof that they are an unfit parent or pose a threat to their child.
- A criminal record may affect a person’s immigration status. Foreign nationals with criminal records may be deported or prevented from becoming naturalized citizens.
- If a person commits a crime for a second or subsequent time, the penalties for these future cases can worsen significantly. For example, those who are convicted of more than one DWI within a certain amount of time can face harsher penalties as well as possible a license suspension.
Can I have my record cleared in New Jersey?
In New Jersey, some people can have their criminal record expunged. This essentially clears their record to allow them a fresh start. However, you should note that those looking to expunge their record have to meet the criteria; New Jersey only allows people to expunge certain crimes from their records. Extreme crimes such as murder, robbery, kidnapping, arson, sexual assault, or perjury cannot be expunged. If you believe you may be eligible for expungement of your record, or you’re currently charged with a crime and are looking to avoid obtaining a criminal record altogether, you should strongly consider reaching out to our experienced New Jersey criminal law firm today. We are here to help you in any way we can.
CONTACT OUR EXPERIENCED NEW JERSEY FIRM
Whether you’re facing sex crime charges, require assistance filing for bankruptcy, or are looking to go through foreclosure mediation, Contact the Law Office Boyd & Squitieri today.
