What Are the Consequences of a Criminal Record?

Criminal records can impact individuals in my ways. If you have a criminal record that has impacted your livelihood and future, it is important to retain the services of our Hartford County criminal defense attorneys. You deserve an attorney in your corner who understands the weight that these charges hold. To learn the consequences of a criminal record and the ways they may impact an individual’s future, continue reading.

How can a criminal record impact my future?

There are many ways that a criminal record can impact a person’s future and livelihood. The most common consequences of a criminal record include the following:

  • Ability to get a job: Criminal records may limit the opportunity for an individual to get a job. This may limit the type of job a person can get. Most jobs require individuals to disclose if they were convicted of a crime on their application. Also, many employers conduct backgrounds checks. If a person is dishonest on their application and checks “no” when asked about their record, this can result in disqualification. Employees can also be fired if they are convicted of a crime.
  • Immigration status: It is possible for foreign individuals with criminal records to be prevented from becoming a citizen or deported.
  • Child custody: If you share custody of your child, your former spouse and the court may use your criminal record against you to prove that you are unfit to partner or a danger to your child.

Can I have my criminal record erased?

In Connecticut, certain individuals with criminal records can have their criminal offenses expunged from their records. Connecticut law allows for the expungement of arrest records, criminal charges, and convictions. Individuals with juvenile crime records can have their records expunged by filing a Petition for Erasure with the court.

Adult convictions may be eligible for what is known as an absolute pardon. This is typically expunged automatically once the appeal deadlines expire.

Individuals who were convicted of a crime that was later decriminalized can file a Petition for Erasure to receive an expungement. A felony or misdemeanor conviction can be pardoned by the Connecticut Board of Pardons and Paroles after the following waiting periods:

  • Three years for a misdemeanor conviction
  • Five years for a felony conviction

If you have any further questions about expunging your criminal record, give our experienced team of Hartford County criminal defense attorneys a call today.

Contact our Firm

Marc N. Needelman is an experienced attorney working throughout the state of Connecticut. If you need an attorney who is ready to fight for the financial compensation you deserve, please do not hesitate to contact us to set up a free initial consultation. Our firm deals with matters relating to real estate, personal injury, criminal defense, estate planning, and more.

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