When facing a criminal charge, you are often consumed with fear about the immediate repercussions. As you work with your criminal defense attorney, you will create a plan of action for moving forward in the court system and discuss the consequences that you may face from the judge or jury. From community service and probation to serving weeks, months or even years in prison, the severity of your sentence will depend on the crime you are charged with and the legal defense that your attorney provides.
In addition to facing legal consequences for criminal actions, you also will find that there are hidden consequences that may continue to reveal themselves for years to come. tress disorder are not uncommon among those who serve time in prison for criminal convictions.
According to Money Crashers, these are a few of the long-term repercussions of a criminal charge on your record:
Financial Challenges
The costs associated with a criminal charge can be hefty. First, you have to pay the attorney fees and the court costs that accrue throughout the duration of your case. After you have settled these financial responsibilities, you may find that the sentence that you have received limits your ability to earn income. For many, a criminal conviction leads to a mountain of debt that can quickly get out of control and can be difficult to manage in the future.
Mental Health Issues
A criminal charge can take a toll on your mental well-being. It is very stressful to deal with the court system and navigate your way through your legal circumstances. In addition, you have to deal with the burden of the impact that this charge has had on your family, friends and loved ones. The guilt can be crippling, and depending on your sentence, you may find yourself dealing with additional mental health disorders. Depression, anxiety, emotional distancing and post-traumatic sRestricted Liberties
Even after you have dealt with the financial aspect of your crime and completed your sentence, your criminal charge may linger with you for years to come. Depending on the severity of your crime and your conviction, you may find yourself dealing with restricted liberties. The number of restricted liberties will vary based on the state that you live in. For example, you may not be able to volunteer with school organizations or athletic teams for your children. Additional restricted liberties may include losing your voting rights or losing your right to bear arms.
The consequences of having a criminal charge on your record can extend beyond your own challenges and inconveniences and into the lives of those you love the most. If you are facing a criminal charge, then it’s critical that you partner with a defense attorney who will advocate for you and fight to get you the most appropriate sentence. By working with an experienced and dedicated criminal defense attorney, you will be able to minimize both the short-term and long-term consequences of your criminal charge.
To discuss the specific circumstances of your case, contact our law firm today to set up a consultation appointment with one of our qualified criminal defense attorneys.