How Long Do Criminal Convictions Last?
Criminal convictions can have a profound impact on an individual’s life, affecting their job prospects, education, and overall well-being. For those who have been convicted of a crime, one of the most common questions they ask is "how long do criminal convictions last?" The answer, unfortunately, is that criminal convictions can last a lifetime.
Federal Versus State Crimes
Understanding how criminal convictions can affect an individual depends on the type of crime and jurisdiction involved. There is a distinction between federal crimes, which are crimes prosecuted under federal law, and state crimes, which are prosecuted under state law.
Federal Crimes
In general, federal crimes can carry lifelong consequences. Here’s a breakdown of some significant aspects:
• Crimes Against the Government: Federal crimes that pose a risk to national security, national interests, or government authorities can result in indeterminate sentences, meaning they can last for years, decades, or even for life.
• Non-Citizen Convictions: If a non-citizen is convicted of a felony in the United States, it can lead to deportation or inadmissibility to the United States.
• Regulatory Offenses: Criminal convictions for regulatory offenses, such as tax fraud, can result in fines and probation.
• Crimes Carrying Mandatory Minimums: Some federal crimes carry mandatory minimum sentences, such as drug trafficking, which can range from five to 20 years or life.
State Crimes
State crimes can have different consequences, but ultimately, they can still last a lifetime. Here are some key points to note:
• Statewide Collateral Consequences: Many state crimes result in collateral consequences, such as loss of professional licenses, voter disenfranchisement, and immigration issues, which can affect a person’s life well after their sentence is completed.
• Felony Convictions: Convictions for felony offenses, such as assault or robbery, can lead to lifelong restrictions on voting rights and professional licenses.
• Misdemeanor Convictions: Misdemeanor convictions, while considered less severe, can still have long-lasting effects on employment and education opportunities.
Criminal History Records**
In addition to the actual sentence served, criminal convictions can lead to **lifetime registration requirements**, **public notification**, or **civil penalties** for non-compliance.
| Criminal History Records | Type of Crime | Length of Record |
| — | — | — |
| **Megan’s Law Registry** | Sex-related crimes | 20 years to lifetime |
| **Sealable Convictions** | Non-violent misdemeanors | Varying lengths (3 to 7 years) |
**Expungement**
While criminal convictions can be challenging to overcome, it’s possible to seek expungement or seal your criminal record. Expungement laws vary by state, but it generally removes a conviction from public access, allowing individuals to lawfully deny the offense occurred. **Sealed records** may still be available to law enforcement or judicial officials.
**Juvenile Crimes**
For juvenile convictions, the rules can vary. Some states consider **juvenile convictions as public record**, while others provide more privacy protections.
• **Juvenile Delinquent:** In some cases, juvenile delinquency charges may not be included on criminal history records or reported to the public.
• **Adjudicated Facts:** If a juvenile is found to have committed the crime, the records are usually sealed, and it is not publicly reported.
**Conclusion**
In summary, criminal convictions can last a lifetime, depending on the type of crime and jurisdiction involved. While seeking expungement or sealed records can provide relief, it’s essential to understand the potential consequences of criminal convictions and the lasting effects on an individual’s life. It’s crucial for those who have been convicted of a crime to explore legal options and advocate for their rights to protect their future.
