How Will a Felony Criminal Conviction Impact My Future?

Our East Lansing criminal defense lawyers at Ben Hall Law know that our clients face significant personal and professional consequences when accused of any crime. That is why we are here. We work tirelessly to produce positive results for our clients so they can move forward confidently without the lasting impact convictions bring.

A felony criminal conviction in Michigan can have significant, far-reaching consequences on various aspects of a person’s life. While the impact may vary based on factors like the nature of the felony and their criminal history, here we discuss how a felony can affect anyone’s future.

Felony Convictions Have Significant Consequences in Michigan

Outside of the initial impact of a felony conviction, which could require mandatory jail time, a quick search of a person’s criminal history will reflect the totality of their legal trouble and what the conviction was for.

This may significantly impact:

• Employment Opportunities

Felony convictions can limit employment options. Many employers conduct background checks; some may have policies against hiring individuals with certain criminal convictions. Certain professions, like finance or government, may be particularly stringent.

Certain professions, like careers in healthcare, law, finance, and others, require licenses, and felony convictions can impact your eligibility to obtain or maintain such licenses.

• Housing

Landlords and property management companies often conduct background checks on potential tenants. A felony conviction may lead to denying rental applications or difficulty finding suitable housing.

• Educational Opportunities

Some educational institutions may have policies against admitting individuals with felony convictions. This can affect their ability to pursue higher education or professional training.

• Financial Consequences

Felony convictions can result in fines, restitution, or other penalties. Additionally, individuals with felony convictions may face challenges in obtaining loans or federal aid.

• Firearms Rights

According to the Michigan Penal Code (750.224f), felons cannot possess, use, transport, sell, purchase, carry, ship, receive, or distribute a firearm for three or five years, depending on the felony charge.

The waiting period begins after completing prison sentences, paying all fines and fees, completing parole and probate obligations, and having Second Amendment Rights restored by a state circuit court.

• Immigration Consequences

Non-U.S. citizens with felony convictions may face immigration consequences, including deportation or ineligibility for certain immigration benefits.

• Probation or Parole Restrictions

If sentenced to probation or parole, individuals may have restrictions on their activities and be subject to regular monitoring.

• Social Stigma

Felony convictions can lead to social stigma and affect personal and professional relationships. It may be challenging to overcome negative perceptions, and the community may see those with felony convictions differently.

Contact Our Skilled Legal Defense Lawyers in Michigan for Help Today

If you have been arrested and charged with a felony in Michigan and are worried about what a conviction might mean to your future, contact our trusted legal defense team in Ingham County to discuss your case with trusted professionals who believe in you and your case by calling (877)-236-4255 or contacting us online.

Your fight is our fight. Let’s get started.