Life Impact of a Conviction from The Law Office of Jay W. Gerber Jr., PLLC
Defending against the impacts of a felony conviction can be a significant and life-altering process. From the time an individual receives a felony charge, having strong representation is critical. Some may question the need or benefit of working with a defense attorney. The Law Office of Jay W. Gerber, Jr., PLLC identifies a few examples of the impacts of a felony conviction on your life.
How a Felony Conviction Affects Your Job Prospects
When you face a felony conviction, your career prospects can take a significant hit. Employers often conduct background checks, and a felony can drastically reduce your chances of securing a job. Certain professions, particularly those in healthcare, education, and positions requiring licensing, often disqualify candidates with felony records outright.
Even industries with less stringent requirements may hesitate to hire someone with a criminal record. The stigma attached to a felony conviction makes it challenging to advance your career, requiring individuals to look for employment in sectors that may offer fewer opportunities for growth and lower wages.
Renting and Credit Complications with a Felony Record
Securing housing can also become a complex affair if you have a felony on your record. Many landlords perform criminal background checks before approving rental applications. A felony conviction can place you at a significant disadvantage, leading to possible denials.
Additionally, felonies impact your credit score negatively. If your felony involved financial crimes or fraud, the consequences on your creditworthiness are even more severe. This reduction in credit score affects not only your ability to rent but also your capacity to qualify for loans, including those for buying a home or financing a car, thus impacting your overall financial stability.
Opportunities for Expungement in West Virginia
For those convicted of felonies in West Virginia, there may be a path to clearing your record through expungement. West Virginia law allows for the expungement of certain felony convictions under specific conditions. The eligibility for expungement depends on the nature of the felony and the time elapsed since the completion of the sentence, including probation or parole.
Successfully expunging a felony record can alleviate many of the burdens mentioned, as it removes the conviction from your public record. This means improved chances in job searches, housing applications, and restoring your credit score. Consulting with a knowledgeable attorney, like Jay Gerber, can provide you with the necessary guidance and representation to navigate the complexities of the expungement process effectively.
Criminal Defense with The Law Office of Jay W. Gerber, Jr., PLLC
Addressing a felony conviction proactively, especially with legal assistance, can significantly mitigate its long-term impacts on your life. The best defense against a criminal conviction begins at the start, with experienced legal representation. Contact The Law Office of Jay W. Gerber, Jr., PLLC for a consultation to explore your options. If you find yourself facing this situation, it’s crucial to seek professional help to explore all available options for moving forward.
For more on criminal defense, call The Law Office of Jay W. Gerber, Jr., PLLC at (681) 229-1334 and like us on Facebook. We can offer defense for those wishing to reduce the impacts of a felony conviction on their life.
