What does having a felony prevent you from doing?
A felony conviction can have severe and far-reaching consequences for an individual’s life, affecting not only their liberty but also their future opportunities. In this article, we will explore the various ways in which having a felony prevents you from doing certain things.
Right to vote
- Losing the right to vote: A felony conviction can lead to loss of the right to vote in many states. The right to vote is often suspended or restored after probation or parole has been served.
- States with the right to vote restriction after felony conviction: 20 states restrict the voting rights of people with a felony conviction. These states vary in their rules, but most restore voting rights when the individual is released from prison, parole, or probation.
Right to own a firearm
- Laws vary by state: Whether you can own a firearm after a felony conviction varies by state. Some states allow those with felony convictions to have their rights restored, while others permanently bar them.
Professional licensure
- Impact on jobs and careers: A felony conviction can impact your career and job prospects. Licenses for professions such as law, medicine, engineering, and accounting may be revoked or not granted with a felony conviction.
Table of affected professional licenses: Professional License Availability YES Lawyer No/Revoked Doctor No/Revoked Pharmacist No/Revoked Nurse Yes (varies by state) Engineer No/Revoked NO Accountant Conditional
Access to educational institutions
- Gaining admission to college: A felony conviction can lead to ineligibility for federal student aid (FAFSA).
- Professional certifications: Some professional certifications, like those for nurse practitioners, require a spotless criminal record.
Right to public housing assistance
- Disqualified from public housing programs: A felony conviction can prevent you from receiving public housing assistance like Section 8 housing programs.
Financial assistance programs
- Student Loan forgiveness programs: A felony conviction can lead to the revocation of loan forgiveness programs like student loan forgiveness through the Teacher Loan Forgiveness Program or Public Service Loan Forgiveness.
- Tax Benefits: IRS restrictions make it difficult to claim deductions or credits related to federal taxes with a felony conviction.
Pardons and clemency
- Time-consuming application process: Obtaining pardon or clemency for a felony conviction can take years. The process varies by state and may involve multiple court appearances.
- Favorable considerations: Parole or pardon boards weigh factors like rehabilitation, family ties, and community connections when making their decisions. Rehabilitation programming and participation in victim restitution programs can increase your chances of being granted relief.
Social Security disability benefits
- Time limits for Social Security Administration (SSA) petitions: Limitations may apply for SSA filings, making it challenging to be approved for benefits with a felony conviction.
Firearm ownership rights
- Permanent restrictions: The Lautenberg Amendments of 1997 prohibit individuals convicted of crimes involving domestic violence from possessing firearms, permanently.
- States with additional firearms restrictions: Some states implement additional restrictions on firearm ownership, such as California, New York, and Massachusetts, which make it difficult to own, purchase, or possess guns.
Pitfalls of a felony conviction: It is crucial to weigh the potential consequences of having a felony conviction before facing the criminal justice system.
Conclusion
Having a felony conviction can significantly curtail your civil rights and freedoms. Losing the right to vote, own firearms, and gain access to certain educational and professional programs can have lasting impacts. Understanding the implications of a felony conviction is essential for making informed decisions about your actions and seeking assistance when confronted with the criminal justice system.
