The Long-Term Consequences People Don’t Consider When Facing Criminal Charges
Even if you are facing a misdemeanor charge, a conviction can carry long-term consequences beyond just your sentence. Being arrested for or charged with a crime can affect every aspect of your life. Even if you aren’t convicted or you don’t face jail time, you may have to deal with complications that affect your relationships, job prospects, and financial and educational opportunities. The best way to protect yourself is to hire an experienced criminal defense attorney in Tucson, AZ. Attorney Janet Altschuler can help you fully understand the charges against you and the impact your case can have on your life. Here is a closer look at some of the long-term consequences you may deal with when facing criminal charges.
Loss of Employment and Financial and Educational Opportunities
Criminal charges could impact your ability to retain your job or get a new job. Even if criminal charges are dropped, simply being accused or suspected of a crime could damage your reputation. And a conviction can pose a serious threat to your ability to sustain gainful employment in the future. You may also face barriers to obtaining a loan or pursuing other financial opportunities, especially if you work in a professional field that requires a license. Criminal charges can even affect your ability to attend college or university, as well as get student loans or financial aid.
Trouble Securing Housing and Public Benefits
Some landlords do criminal background checks before allowing tenants to rent their properties. They do this to reduce their financial and legal liabilities and keep other tenants safe. If your background check uncovers criminal charges for domestic violence, assault, or another violent crime, it may be hard to secure housing. You may also be barred from obtaining public benefits like public housing, financial assistance programs, and food stamps.
Relationship and Custody Challenges
Trouble with the law will also have a huge impact on your personal relationships. You may face strain and stress with family, friends, and romantic partners. If you have children, being arrested for or charged with a crime can impact your ability to retain custody. The risk is even greater if you are charged with domestic violence, child neglect or abuse, drug possession, or a violent crime.
Loss of Immigration, Civil, and Other Rights
Criminal convictions can also affect your rights. Non-citizens may face serious consequences, including deportation or inadmissibility for permanent residency. Citizens may be stripped of their right to vote or hold public office. You may also lose your right to own firearms or hold certain professional licenses.
The first thing you should do if you are facing criminal charges is hire an attorney. If you have been Googling “criminal defense lawyers near me in Tucson, AZ,” attorney Janet Altschuler can help. Our team will evaluate your case, help you understand the charges against you, and gather evidence and documentation to build a defense. Our primary goals are to protect your rights and offer professional representation in court. Call our office now or contact us online to set up a free consultation.