Key Ways a Felony Conviction Can Affect Your Future

There are several ways that a felony conviction can impact your life. The effects can last long after you have done your time.

So, what is a felony? A felony is a really serious crime that usually means you will go to jail for more than a year. If you are convicted of a felony, it will stay on your criminal record for good. This mark can make it harder for you to get work, a place to live, or other chances.

Employment Challenges

It can be challenging to get a job if you have a felony. Most employers do background checks and might not hire anyone who has been convicted of a felony.

Industry limits: Many roles in industries like healthcare, education, or finance won't hire felons.
License restrictions: You may not be able to work in jobs that require a license, like nursing or law.
Job security: If an employer finds out about a conviction, they can fire you from your current work.

A lot of folks wind up taking positions that pay less or don't let them move higher. Some still make it, but it requires more work and determination.

Housing Barriers

Another big problem is finding a place to live. Landlords usually check people's criminal records and may turn down people with felonies.

Private rentals: A lot of landlords won't rent to people with felonies, especially if they were violent or drug-related.
Public housing: Some government housing programs won't let persons with felony records live there.
Residency rules: Some crimes, especially sex offenses, can prevent the person from living near schools or parks.

Convicted felons may have to live in temporary or shared homes because of these rules. Stable housing has become harder to achieve for years.

Educational and Financial Aid

A felony might make it harder to get into school and secure student loans. Some colleges may ask about your criminal background on applications, which could affect whether or not you get in.

Financial aid limits: If you have certain drug or felony offenses, you may not be able to get federal student loans.
Scholarship issues: Private scholarships may also be off-limits.
Higher cost: Some people have to pay for everything themselves. This makes it tougher for them money-wise.

This totally makes it way harder to go to a higher institution later and messes up your chances of making money in the future.

Loss of Civil Rights

If someone gets convicted of a felony, they usually lose some of their rights. These rights are different in each state, but they usually include some basic privileges.

Voting: A lot of felons can't vote while they're in jail or on probation.
Firearms: These individuals are not allowed to own or carry guns.
Jury duty and office: You might not be able to serve on a jury or hold public office.

It is sometimes possible to get these privileges back, but it usually requires extra steps.

Financial Repercussions

Being found guilty of a felony can put a lot of stress on your finances for a long time. Fines, legal fees, and lost income can add up quickly.

Loans and credit: Lenders may regard convicts as high-risk, which makes it harder for them to get mortgages or business loans.
Higher costs: Rent, insurance, and everyday prices can become more expensive.
Limited assistance: You might not be able to get help from federal programs like SNAP or housing aid.

Setbacks in finances can linger for years and make you less independent.

Key Takeaways

A felony conviction stays on your record forever.
You may not be able to get some jobs or professional licenses.
You could be turned down for housing and financial help.
You could lose your civil rights, such as the right to vote or own a gun.
Non-citizens may face deportation or problems with immigration.