If you find yourself facing minor criminal charges in Texas, you may believe that a conviction does not affect the rest of your life. After all, it is only a misdemeanor. How much does it actually mean? It may be surprising to find that it could change the entire trajectory of your career, earning potential and ability to buy a home. At The Law Office of H. Alex Fuller, PLLC., we often work with clients in developing a strong defense that can help reduce or dismiss criminal charges.
The National Institute of Justice reports that the collateral consequences of a criminal conviction can become a barrier to leading a normal life. This topic often comes up when discussing felony convictions and after jail time. However, even a guilty verdict on a misdemeanor charge can disqualify you for certain jobs and limit civil liberties. The laws and regulations are often complicated making tracking down and understanding the consequences of a conviction a challenge.
Depending on the details of your case, once found guilty, you may face some of the following consequences:
- Restriction on child custody
- Residency registration or restrictions
- Ineligibility for a business license
- Exclusion from government programs and contracts
For example, if you receive a guilty verdict on theft charges, you may be unable to get a job handling money, such as a cashier. It is important to note that even if you plead guilty and avoid jail time, the collateral consequences are the same. They relate to the guilty verdict and not how much prison time you did or did not serve. An experienced attorney can help you understand the full ramification of the charges and advocate for you in court. Visit our webpage for more information on this topic.