If you are facing the penalties of a criminal record in Georgia, it is in your best interest to give our Cobb County criminal defense lawyer a call to discuss your options. We are on your side no matter what.
What are the long-term consequences of a criminal record?
There are a number of negative life-long consequences that having a criminal record can have on an individual’s life. Some of the impact you in the following ways:
- Difficulty securing a job: The kinds of jobs open to you with a criminal record may be restricted. Employers generally need background checks to be conducted. You will likely have to check “yes” on job applications for being convicted of a crime. It is also likely that employers who are convicted of a crime will get fired from their existing position.
- Effects of future crimes may increase: Committing a crime more than once can heighten the penalties for future crimes.
- Your immigration status may be impacted: Immigrants with criminal records can be deported or prevented from becoming prospective citizens.
- Child custody arrangements may be affected: Your criminal record may be used by your former spouse and the court to try to demonstrate that you are an unfit parent or that you are a threat to your child.
What is a criminal record restriction?
If you have your criminal record restricted in the state of Georgia, it will restrict your official criminal history report from public view. Keep in mind that your official criminal history report will only be available to law enforcement agencies for criminal justice purposes. To learn more about this, give our legal team a call today. We are on your side.
Who is eligible for record restriction?
If you are unsure about your qualifications for a record restriction in the state of Georgia, keep in mind the following circumstances:
- Juvenile Offenders: If you were under the age of 21 when you were charged with a misdemeanor and have successfully completed your sentence, you may be suitable for restriction. However, if you have any charges within the last five years of your request, you will not be authorized.
- Non-Convictions: Most cases that are closed without conviction will be eligible for restriction. Verdicts of not guilty and vacated or reversed convictions may also be suitable for restriction.
- Charged With a Felony, but Convicted of an Unrelated Misdemeanor: You may be qualified for restriction if your felony charge was closed without conviction and you were only convicted of an unrelated misdemeanor offense. If you were convicted of a lower included offense of the felony charge, you are not eligible for restriction.
If you have questions or concerns regarding your criminal record, do not hesitate to give our skilled attorneys a call today.