When people face criminal charges, they often worry about the direct consequences that a conviction could bring. These can include significant fines, restitution, probation or jail time. However, many don’t realize that criminal convictions also carry collateral consequences that can last a lifetime.
Collateral consequences are those that are imposed in addition to, or as a result of, a person’s criminal record. They can impact areas like employment, housing, and even access to public benefits. Frequently, a conviction can lead to barriers in the job market, as employers and housing providers routinely conduct background checks that reveal a criminal record. They can also lead to difficulties in securing professional licenses or a steady career path. They can also impede on access to financial support, leading to a cycle of poverty or lack of stability that impacts mental health and quality of life.
A person can be convicted of an offense if the evidence in the case meets a certain standard of proof. This is known as “beyond a reasonable doubt.” The standard is an extremely high bar and is meant to ensure that there is not just a skeptical, but actual, belief in the factual allegations. A conviction can only be entered as part of a final judgment after the jury trial has concluded and a judge enters a verdict. Felony and misdemeanor convictions, guilty pleas, Nolo Contendere pleas, bail forfeitures and even decisions with deferred sentences and Alford pleas all constitute convictions in the legal system.
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