When a person commits and is charged with a crime, it will be recorded on their criminal record. A criminal record can follow an individual’s entire life depending on the convicted crime. As such, a criminal record can hinder an individual’s ability to achieve certain things in life such as finding a good job, finding the perfect home, or getting into a good college. A criminal record can significantly affect a person’s life. If you have been charged with a criminal offense, don’t hesitate to contact an experienced and determined Memphis Criminal Defense Attorney who can help defend your rights. Our firm is committed to helping our clients achieve reduced or dropped criminal charges. We are ready to fight on your behalf to help you reach favorable results and protect your future.
How can a criminal record affect an individual’s life?
A criminal record can negatively affect a person’s life in several ways. A person with a criminal record will have a tarnished personal and professional reputation. This puts individuals with a criminal record at a disadvantage as they are typically discriminated against and stigmatized. Having a criminal record can have long-term effects on a person’s life including:
Employment options
Anyone with a criminal record is deprived of fair opportunities when it comes to employment options. Employers can solely disqualify a candidate based on their criminal record. Employers are legally allowed to view a candidate’s criminal record through a background check. If an employer sees that an individual has previous convictions, they may deny that person employment. Employers deny these individuals with criminal records employment because they don’t want to take the risk that they may act unethically or steal from them.
Child custody, adoption, and fostering
Child custody rights may be reduced if an individual has a criminal record. Especially, if the individual’s criminal offense had anything to do with violence. Individuals with a criminal record may also be denied the right to adopt or foster a child based on their criminal history. However, it does not necessarily rule them out completely.
College Admission
When an individual decides to earn a higher degree in education they will have to apply to a school. During the application process, individuals are required to indicate if they have a criminal record. If an individual has a criminal record their chances of being admitted to the school are decreased significantly. Some colleges may deny admission solely based on whether a candidate has a criminal past.
Driving
If an individual is charged with a criminal offense such as driving while under the influence (DUI), it may result in the suspension or revocation of their license and therefore cause them to lose their privilege to drive.
Renting or leasing
When an individual is trying to find a home, landlords may require candidates to go through a background check. If a landlord assesses a candidate’s criminal record, they may deny them tenancy if they believe this denial will preserve and protect the safety of the property.
A criminal record can have damaging effects on an individual’s life. If you have been charged with a criminal offense, reach out to one of our skilled and dedicated team members who can help defend your rights and interests. Our firm is committed to helping our clients to get reduced or dropped criminal charges to ensure their mistakes don’t have long-term consequences.
