What Are The Long-Term Consequences of a Criminal Record?

A criminal record can impact you in a number of ways. Unfortunately, many of these consequences are long-term and can affect you throughout your life. Luckily, there are some options when it comes to a criminal record in New Jersey. Read on for more information regarding the consequences of a criminal record and the potential for expungement.

What are the Long-Term Consequences of a Criminal Record?

When applying for jobs, finding housing, or applying for college, you have likely had to disclose your criminal record. Your record can impact you in a lot of important ways. For example, a record may affect:

  • Difficulty getting and keeping a job. A criminal record can limit the types of jobs available. Employers also tend to conduct background checks. Additionally, employees who are convicted of a crime can get fired from their current job as a result.
  • Child custody arrangements. If a person commits a crime, his or her former spouse may use this to prove that this individual is an unfit parent/danger to the child.
  • A person’s immigration status. Foreign individuals with a criminal record can be deported or prevented from becoming a future citizen. 
  • Those who commit a crime more than one time can face worse penalties for each new crime.

What to Know About Expungement

Expungement allows an individual to essentially erase his or her criminal record. This means that you would no longer have to disclose your criminal history on job applications. That being said, some member of law enforcement will still be able to access your record. Many low-level, non-violent crimes are eligible for expungement. Not everyone will have the option to have their record expunged. Certain crimes cannot be expunged. Some of the crimes that are ineligible for expungement include the following:

  • Murder
  • Kidnapping
  • Aggravated sexual assault
  • Robbery
  • Arson
  • Perjury
  • Distribution, sale, or possession

If you have a criminal record and you would like to look into the process of expungement, contact our firm today to discuss your options.

Contact our Firm

If you are facing criminal charges in New Jersey, you need strong legal defense. Contact the Law Office of Carl Spector for dedicated representation. With over 30 years of experience as both a prosecutor and criminal defense attorney, he offers a unique perspective on how both sides think, and how to best approach each aspect of the case. When your future is on the line, don’t settle for less than the best possible legal representation. Contact an experienced New Jersey criminal defense attorney who will aggressively fight for you. Call today for a free confidential consultation. Let our experience work for you.