If you have been convicted of a crime in North Carolina, you will confront the severe and lasting consequences of a permanent criminal record. While it is possible to have certain convictions expunged, the process can be arduous. Many criminal charges cannot be expunged, leaving the person convicted with a permanent criminal record that can significantly impact their housing options, career choices, and personal lives.
When facing criminal charges, it is essential to understand the long-term magnifications of a conviction and the types of penalties you will face if you are found guilty. Speaking to a criminal defense attorney can help you understand your options and make informed decisions about your case. We will help you understand all of your legal options. Contact Arnold & Smith, PLLC, to schedule a complimentary, no-obligation case evaluation with a skilled criminal defense attorney.
The Employment Ramifications of a Criminal ConvictionThere are many lifelong consequences for misdemeanor and felony convictions in North Carolina. Depending on the questions asked on your job application or by a prospective employer, you may be required to disclose your conviction.
For example, you would likely not be hired if you were applying for a truck driving position and your commercial driver's license had been suspended because of a DWI. If you would like to work with children or vulnerable adults and you have a violent crime or sexual crime on your record, you will be prohibited from working in those industries.
Difficulty Obtaining LoansIt can also be an uphill battle to secure a home, auto, or other type of loan with a permanent criminal record. A conviction could lead the loan agency to view you as high risk, potentially denying your application.
Similarly, if you have been convicted of possessing or distributing a controlled substance, you may be ineligible for financial aid for your education. For some student loans, a criminal conviction could automatically exclude you. Even if you can apply, a criminal conviction could significantly complicate your loan qualification process.
Difficulty Obtaining Rental HousingIf you have been convicted of a crime, you may have difficulty finding a condo, apartment, or home to rent. Many landlords conduct background checks before they accept tenants. A criminal conviction is considered a public record. A landlord could easily discover it after doing a simple background check, even if they do not ask about it on the rental application. Your housing options would be even more limited if you were convicted of a sex crime or a felony crime.
The Ramifications of Registering as a Sex Offender in North CarolinaYou will be required to register as a sex offender in North Carolina if you are convicted of a sex crime, such as possession of child pornography; the sex offender registry is considered a public record that anyone can search. The sex offender registry is a public record that anyone can search. Being listed as a sex offender on the registry could limit your ability to find housing, employment, and other resources.
Negative Consequences for Immigration StatusIf you receive a criminal conviction and are an immigrant, the conviction could jeopardize your immigrant status. For example, you could lose your right to remain in the US or become a citizen. You could also face deportation proceedings that result in you being forced to leave the country. This is especially true if you are convicted of a felony under North Carolina's or federal laws. There is a high probability that you could lose your immigration status to be in the United States legally.
Loss of Citizenship RightsMany people do not consider all of the rights citizens could lose if convicted of a felony. For example, you could lose your right to vote in North Carolina until your citizenship rights are restored if you are convicted of a felony. You also lose your right to possess a gun if you are convicted of a felony. You could also face serious additional criminal charges for possession of a firearm by a felon if you possess a gun and have a felony conviction on your record.
Possession of a firearm by a felon is a felony crime that carries harsh punishments. However, depending on the circumstances of your case, you may be able to successfully get your right to possession of a firearm and restore it eventually. You will also be disqualified from holding public office if you are convicted of a felony, and you will not be able to serve as a juror.
Contact a Skilled Charlotte Defense AttorneyIf you have been charged with a crime, reach out to an experienced attorney as soon as possible. The Charlotte-based criminal defense attorneys at Arnold & Smith, PLLC, will provide you with an aggressive legal defense. Contact Arnold & Smith, PLLC, to schedule a complimentary case evaluation and learn more about how we can fight for you.