Criminal convictions carry a number of collateral consequences that can significantly impact an individual’s life long after their sentence is completed. These collateral consequences are wide-ranging and can affect an individual’s efforts at rehabilitation and re-entry into society.
Criminal convictions become a part of an individual’s public record. That record is accessible by anyone, including potential employers, landlords, and others. As a result, a criminal conviction can restrict the individual’s ability to obtain employment or secure housing. Depending on the type of crime an individual is convicted of, they may also be required to register with the sex offender registry and/or parole supervision for life.
Collateral consequences may also affect:
- The right to vote, which may be suspended during incarceration or longer depending on state law.
- The right to serve on a jury.
- The right to hold certain public offices or other positions of trust.
- The right to carry firearms.
- Eligibility to receive financial aid, potentially impacting a person’s ability to pursue a higher education.
- Eligibility to receive certain government benefits, including public assistance, food stamps, unemployment assistance.
- The ability to obtain or maintain certain professional or business licenses.
- Driving privileges, as a criminal conviction may result in the suspension or revocation of an individual’s driver’s license.
The type and extent of collateral consequences a convicted individual could face depend on several factors, including the severity and nature of the crime, as well as applicable state and federal laws. Although some states have made a recent effort to lessen the impact of collateral consequences in the areas of employment, housing, voting, and public assistance to support rehabilitation efforts, the price for being convicted of criminal activity remains high.