(Akiit.com) The criminal justice system in the United States is a labyrinth of laws and criminal charges. These criminal records have an impact on your life that can last for years, or even decades to come. A criminal record is a life-long stigma that can affect everything from your ability to get a job, to your ability to find housing. It’s important for anyone who’s ever been charged with a crime of any sort to understand the legal repercussions and potential outcomes so that they can make informed decisions about their future.
The criminal lawyers los angeles have are skilled in defending their clients to try to avoid that criminal record and the stigma that attaches itself to someone for years thereafter. Where innocence cannot be proven, guilt can be made to look more like a set of unfortunate circumstances.
Most criminal charges in the United States result in a felony charge. A felony conviction can have far-reaching consequences, including jail time, large fines, and a criminal record that will follow you for the rest of your life.
Therefore, if you are charged with a crime, it is important to speak to an experienced criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. An experienced criminal defense lawyer can help you understand the charges against you and can provide you with guidance on how to best defend yourself in court.
A criminal conviction can have a devastating effect on your life, but with the help of a criminal defense lawyer, you can fight the charges and protect your future.
Let’s just be clear about what a criminal record could mean by exploring in more depth the different areas of someone’s life that it could potentially affect.
Job
It is difficult to find a job when you have a criminal record. Many employers don’t want to hire someone who has been convicted of a crime, as they may worry that the person will be unreliable or that their criminal history will reflect poorly on the company. This can make it hard for someone with a criminal record to support themselves and their family.
The background checks that employers do before hiring will generally include:
- Criminal history
- Social media posts
- Credit checks
This makes it well worth hiring a good lawyer to take on your case to increase the odds of not ending up with a criminal history. You are investing in your future job prospects if there is a chance that the result could go in your favor.
Housing
It can be very difficult to find housing when you have a criminal record. Landlords often don’t want to rent to someone who has a criminal history, as they may fear the person is still into crime or might prove to be a disruptive tenant. This can make it very hard for someone with a criminal record to get on their feet and find a place to live.
This is another reason to hire a lawyer to fight for your reputation.
Relationships
A criminal record can also harm your relationships. Many people may be hesitant to associate with someone who has a criminal record, as they may view them as being untrustworthy or dangerous. Furthermore, it can be difficult for someone with a criminal record to form meaningful relationships with other people.
The trouble with the news of a criminal conviction is that it can be more widely spread when social media plays its part.
Reputations
Having a criminal record is not only embarrassing, but it can also be damaging to your reputation. Not only can a criminal record make it difficult to find a job or even housing, as mentioned above, but, in some cases, it may even prevent you from becoming a United States citizen. This could damage the future that you have envisioned for yourself.
A criminal defense lawyer can help you understand your legal rights and options so that you can make the best decisions for your future. They are knowledgeable in criminal law and can provide you with the best possible defense if you are charged with a crime.
Criminal records can have a devastating impact on your life, so it is important to seek legal assistance if you are charged with a crime.
Staff Writer; Sherry Jones