How Criminal Records Affect Your Future—and What You Can Do
By Sullivan Rice
Getting arrested or charged with a crime can feel like your world is crashing down. But for many people, the legal consequences are just the beginning. A criminal record can follow you long after your case is closed, impacting everything from employment to housing, education, and even your right to vote or own a firearm.
At Jack Rice Defense, we don’t just fight to win your case—we fight to protect your future. Here’s what you need to know about how a criminal record can affect your life, and what you can do to take back control.
Employment: The Resume That Follows You
One of the most immediate and long-term impacts of a criminal record is on employment.
Employers Can—and Often Do—Run Background Checks
Even a misdemeanor can raise red flags during a background check. A felony conviction? That can make certain jobs, industries, or licenses completely off-limits. And while some employers are more open to second chances, many are not.
Job applications often ask about prior convictions.
Licensing boards may deny you access to certain professions (like healthcare, law, or finance).
Government and public sector jobs are often stricter about past offenses.
What You Can Do:
If you’re facing charges, the best time to protect your future employment is now. Working with an experienced attorney could mean the difference between a conviction and a dismissal, or the opportunity to negotiate charges down to a lesser offense. And if you've already been convicted, you may qualify for expungement, record sealing, or pardon petitions.
Housing: A Record That Locks You Out
Trying to rent an apartment or apply for public housing with a criminal record can be an uphill battle.
Private landlords often run background checks and may deny applicants with any criminal history.
Public housing authorities can reject individuals based on certain types of convictions—especially drug or violent offenses.
Even if you're a great tenant with stable income, a record can get in the way of safe, stable housing.
What You Can Do:
You may be able to petition for expungement or sealing of your record, which can make it easier to pass tenant screening processes. In the meantime, working with a legal advocate can help explain your circumstances to potential landlords or navigate housing denial appeals.
Education & Student Loans
Colleges and universities may consider criminal records during admissions. Some scholarships, grants, and federal financial aid programs have restrictions based on certain offenses.
The Consequences Include:
Denied admission to college or trade programs
Loss of scholarship or athletic eligibility
Ineligibility for federal student aid (especially for drug-related convictions)
What You Can Do:
If you're facing charges, legal representation can help minimize long-term academic consequences. If you're already living with a record, some schools and aid programs are becoming more inclusive—knowing how to navigate those applications is key.
Immigration Status
For non-citizens, even a minor criminal offense can have serious consequences, including:
Deportation
Visa denial
Ineligibility for citizenship or permanent residency
What You Can Do:
If you're not a U.S. citizen, never plead guilty or accept a deal without consulting a defense attorney who understands immigration law. Certain charges may be considered “deportable offenses”—even if they seem minor.
Jack Rice has extensive experience coordinating with immigration attorneys to protect clients' status and future.
Voting Rights & Gun Ownership
In Minnesota, people with felony convictions lose the right to vote while incarcerated but regain it upon release. Other states have stricter or more complex rules. Similarly, felony convictions can restrict your right to own or possess a firearm—sometimes permanently.
What You Can Do:
Depending on your case, rights may be restored through expungement, clemency, or rights restoration processes. We can walk you through your options and help you reclaim your civil liberties.
Expungement & Record Sealing: A Second Chance
The good news? A criminal record doesn't always have to be permanent.
You may qualify to:
Expunge your record (erase it from public view)
Seal it from background checks
Vacate or reopen a past conviction
Reduce a felony to a misdemeanor (in some cases)
Every state has different eligibility requirements and timelines—but the sooner you start the process, the better.
Jack Rice Defense can assess your eligibility, file the proper motions, and represent you in court to help clear your name and rebuild your future.
You’re More Than a Record—We’ll Help Prove It
At Jack Rice Defense, we know that good people can get caught in bad situations. One mistake should not define the rest of your life. Whether you’re facing charges, living with a record, or trying to clear your name, we’re here to guide you every step of the way—with strategy, compassion, and fierce advocacy.
