You may face long-term consequences if you have a criminal record. Continue reading to learn these potential consequences and the actions you may be able to take in New York. If you require assistance with your criminal record, do not hesitate to reach out to our experienced New York criminal defense attorney.
What are the consequences of a criminal record in New York?
A criminal record may impact you and your future in the following ways:
- Trouble getting hired and holding a job: Having a criminal record can limit the types of jobs that may be available to you. Employers typically conduct background checks and require applicants to check “yes” on an application for being convicted of a crime. Employees who are convicted of a crime can get fired from their current job as well.
- Child custody arrangements may be affected: Your former spouse and the court may use your criminal record as a way to prove that you are unfit to the parent or a danger to your child.
- Your immigration status may be affected: Immigrants in the United States with a criminal record can be deported or prevented from becoming future citizens.
- Penalties of future crimes may increase: Committing a crime more than one time can result in you facing worse penalties for each new crime.
Can I seal my record in New York?
You can seal your criminal record in New York. This means that your record will be removed from the public record and cannot be viewed by others, though it still exists. However, sealed records can be accessed or re-opened through a court order.
The following crimes can be sealed in New York:
- Non-criminal violations
- Any charge where there was no conviction
- Certain misdemeanors or felonies, if the offender entered court-mandated alcohol or drug treatment program, has no additional pending charges, and has satisfied any sentence or request mandated after they completed treatment
- Possession of less than ⅞ of an ounce of marijuana, three years after their conviction
- Certain crimes committed as a juvenile
If you have a criminal record, it is important that you reach out to an experienced New York criminal defense attorney to learn more about sealing your record. Contact our firm today to learn how we can assist you.
Contact our Firm
Criminal matters can change the course of your life forever. This is why you need an experienced attorney who will aggressively combat your charges to help mitigate their long-term effects. If you are in need of experienced legal counsel for a criminal defense matter on Long Island or throughout New York State, please contact Grunwald & Seman, P.C. to schedule a consultation. We would be happy to assist you.
