A felony conviction in Maryland can significantly affect various aspects of your life. Whether you’re facing a felony charge or have already been convicted, understanding how it impacts your record is important.
In Maryland, a felony conviction can follow you long after you’ve served your sentence. It can limit your opportunities and affect your future in ways you may not anticipate.
What is a felony conviction?
Felonies are serious criminal offenses punishable by imprisonment for more than one year. These offenses can range from violent crimes like robbery or assault to nonviolent crimes like drug possession or fraud. A felony conviction is permanent, meaning it will stay on your criminal record unless you take specific legal actions to have it expunged.
How does a felony affect employment?
One of the most significant consequences of a felony conviction is the impact it has on employment opportunities. Many employers conduct background checks, and a felony on your record can make it difficult to secure a job.
While federal law prohibits discrimination against people with criminal records in certain situations, state law allows employers to consider felony convictions when making hiring decisions. If you’re seeking a professional license, such as in healthcare or law, a felony conviction may prevent you from obtaining it.
What are the long-term consequences?
A felony conviction can affect many aspects of your life. In addition to employment issues, it can impact your ability to rent a home, get a loan, or travel internationally. You may also lose certain civil rights, such as the right to vote or own a firearm. In Maryland, some felons may be eligible for parole or probation, but the conviction itself remains on their record.
Can you get your record expunged?
In Maryland, felony convictions can sometimes be expunged, but only under specific conditions. Expungement is the legal process of removing a criminal record from public view. To qualify, you must have completed your sentence and meet other criteria, such as no further convictions. It’s important to consult with legal counsel to understand if you are eligible for expungement.
Felony convictions carry long-lasting consequences, but with the right legal help, it may be possible to minimize some of their effects. Understanding how a felony affects your record can help you make informed decisions about how to handle your situation.