What Does a Felony Prevent You from Doing?
A felony is a serious criminal offense that is punishable by more than one year in prison. It is a significant legal consequence that can have a lasting impact on an individual’s life. In this article, we will explore the various aspects of a felony conviction and what it prevents you from doing.
Voting Rights
One of the most significant consequences of a felony conviction is the loss of voting rights. In most states, individuals with a felony conviction are prohibited from voting until their sentence is complete, including probation and parole (Source: The Sentencing Project). This means that even if an individual has completed their prison sentence, they may still be denied the right to vote for several years after their release.
| State | Voting Rights Restoration Process |
|---|---|
| Alabama | Must apply to the Alabama Secretary of State’s office after completing sentence |
| Arizona | Must apply to the Arizona Governor’s office after completing sentence |
| California | Must apply to the California Secretary of State’s office after completing sentence |
| Florida | Must apply to the Florida Governor’s office after completing sentence |
Occupational Licensing
A felony conviction can also prevent individuals from obtaining or maintaining certain occupational licenses. In many states, individuals with a felony conviction are not eligible for certain licenses, such as nursing, law enforcement, or teaching (Source: National Association of Secretaries of State). This can make it difficult for individuals to find employment in certain fields or advance in their careers.
| Occupation | Felony Conviction Restrictions |
|---|---|
| Nursing | Must disclose felony conviction on application; may be subject to additional review |
| Law Enforcement | Typically prohibits individuals with a felony conviction from becoming law enforcement officers |
| Teaching | May require additional certification or approval from state education department |
Firearms Ownership
Another significant consequence of a felony conviction is the loss of the right to own or possess firearms. Under federal law, individuals with a felony conviction are prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition (Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation). This can have significant implications for individuals who rely on firearms for work or personal protection.
Public Housing
A felony conviction can also prevent individuals from accessing public housing. The Federal Housing Act prohibits individuals with a felony conviction from participating in public housing programs (Source: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development). This can make it difficult for individuals to access affordable housing options.
Student Financial Aid
Additionally, a felony conviction can prevent individuals from accessing certain student financial aid programs. The Higher Education Act prohibits individuals with a felony conviction from accessing federal student financial aid (Source: U.S. Department of Education). This can make it difficult for individuals to pursue higher education.
Employment Opportunities
A felony conviction can also limit employment opportunities. Many employers are hesitant to hire individuals with a felony conviction, citing concerns about workplace safety and liability (Source: Society for Human Resource Management). This can make it difficult for individuals to find employment and support themselves and their families.
Restoration of Rights
In some cases, individuals may be able to restore their rights and privileges after completing their sentence. Many states have laws that allow individuals to petition for restoration of their voting rights, occupational licenses, and other privileges (Source: The Sentencing Project). However, the process of restoring these rights can be complex and time-consuming.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a felony conviction can have significant consequences that can impact an individual’s life for years to come. From voting rights to occupational licensing, firearms ownership, public housing, student financial aid, and employment opportunities, a felony conviction can limit an individual’s ability to participate fully in society. It is essential for individuals to understand the potential consequences of a felony conviction and to seek legal guidance if they are facing charges or have been convicted of a felony.
