When an individual is charged with a criminal offense, it will be recorded on their criminal record. Whenever anyone runs a background check, they will be able to see the criminal history of an individual on their criminal record. For instance, when an individual applies for a job, wants to rent an apartment, or applies to college, their chances of being accepted may be lowered based on their past convictions. It is extremely important for individuals charged with a crime to consult an experienced attorney who can help get their charges reduced or dropped to ensure their future isn’t negatively impacted by their criminal past. If you have been charged with a criminal offense, contact a qualified and skilled Monmouth County Criminal Defense Attorney who can help defend your rights and interests.
How can a criminal record affect a person’s life?
A criminal record can affect a person’s life in several ways including:
Employment
When a person with a criminal record applies for a job, employers are legally able to run a background check on all candidates. Through a background check, employers can assess a candidate’s criminal record. Individuals are at a disadvantage as employers may deny employment solely based on an individual’s criminal convictions. It can affect a person’s ability to find a good job that has a high earning potential. A criminal record limits individuals to lower-earning jobs. Ultimately, a criminal record negatively affects a person’s livelihood.
Renting
When an individual is trying to rent an apartment or lease a home, landlords may deny a candidate tenancy if they have a criminal record. Landlords, similarly to employers, can deny a candidate solely based on whether or not they have a criminal record. However, landlords are only able to deny an individual if they believe their decision is directly protecting and maintaining the safety of the property and community. It can affect a person’s ability to find a good home.
College Admission
Colleges require individuals who apply for admission to go through a background check where their criminal record is assessed. Candidates are at a disadvantage as colleges may deny an individual if they believe their past convictions make them a threat to the safety of the school. A criminal record could hinder an individual’s chances of earning a higher degree and decrease their likelihood of being accepted into a school.
Child custody, adoption, and fostering
When an individual is charged with a criminal offense, their rights regarding child custody are reduced. Depending on the conviction, it could also affect a person’s ability to adopt or foster a child. If the criminal offense involved violent acts, it will reduce a person’s rights to child custody, adoption, and fostering of a child.
Driving
Individuals may lose their driving privileges if they are convicted of certain criminal offenses such as driving while under the influence (DUI). Individuals may lose their privilege to drive as they may face license suspension or revocation. Certain criminal offenses may result in the permanent revocation of a standard license. For instance, if an individual is a commercial truck driver with a commercial driver’s license, the loss of their license could affect their livelihood. Additionally, this type of offense could cause an individual to lose their driving privileges.
If you have been charged with a criminal offense, it is important to contact an experienced and determined member of our team who can assist you in getting your charges reduced or dropped to protect your future. Our firm is ready to fight for you and help reach favorable results.