Consequences of a Felony Conviction: What Rights and Opportunities Are Lost?
When someone is convicted of a felony, their life can be significantly affected. But what exactly do they lose? The repercussions vary greatly depending on where you live, ranging from legal restrictions to job opportunities. This article will explore the various rights and opportunities that may be lost following a felony conviction in the United States and beyond.
Voting Rights
In the United States, a felony conviction can result in a loss of voting rights. The extent and duration of this loss can vary significantly by state. For instance, in some states, individuals convicted of a felony are prohibited from voting for life, while in others, rights may be restored after a certain period, often with a waiting period or after completing a period of parole or probation.
Some states do not disenfranchise felons who have committed non-violent offenses, while other states may strip rights even for these crimes. Arizona and Tennessee, for example, ban felons from possessing a weapon, which can be considered a form of disenfranchisement. However, some states offer more leniency. Vermont and another state, for instance, never bar felons from sitting on a jury.
Gun Ownership and Restrictions
A felony conviction can immediately and severely impact an individual's right to own a firearm. Federally, a convicted felon is not allowed to own a firearm, and in most states, this restriction also applies. There are additional restrictions such as the need to register, restrictions on where they can live, and limitations on employment opportunities in medical facilities, including nursing homes.
Some states define what constitutes a weapon more broadly than the federal definition. For instance, in AZ and TN, the definition of "weapon" can include actual possession or constructive possession. A felony conviction may mean that an individual cannot borrow, shoot, or even be within 18 inches of an unlocked and uncased firearm. Additionally, living in a place where a firearm is present, even in a locked safe, can be prohibited.
Job Opportunities and Employment Restrictions
felony convictions can also result in the loss of numerous job opportunities. Many companies have strict hiring policies, and a felony conviction can be a major barrier to employment in certain professions. Government jobs and jobs requiring government clearance are often off-limits to felons. Jobs in healthcare, such as nursing, are also commonly restricted due to the risk involved.
Individuals with a drug conviction, particularly if it involves a non-violent substance, can face significant limitations in working in the pharmaceutical industry or obtaining a pharmacist’s license. Similarly, those convicted of violent crimes often find that their rights to regain certain job opportunities are severely limited, if not impossible.
Civil Rights and Housing Opportunities
In addition to legal and professional restrictions, a felony conviction can limit an individual's other civil rights. This includes the right to vote, the right to possess a firearm, and other potential restrictions. These rights may be automatically restored in some states, such as Texas, where firearms rights are automatically restored after five years.
Employment opportunities can also be significantly impacted, with many apartment applications being rejected outright. In some states, even housing options for felons are limited, though this is changing. For example, many Section 8 and other subsidized housing programs may bar felons or those with certain charges from leasing apartments.
Global Impact and Travel Restrictions
The consequences of a felony conviction do not end at the borders of a single country. Many countries around the world bar felons from entering or visiting, although this varies. Some countries may offer exceptions, especially if the charges are non-violent and not severe, or if enough time has passed since the conviction.
Lastly, it’s important to consider the impact on minors. Individuals who commit their first felony under the age of 18 may find that their records are automatically expunged upon reaching a certain age, often 18 or 21, depending on the state.
For anyone facing a felony charge or those already living with its consequences, understanding these various rights and opportunities lost is crucial. It is also important to seek legal guidance to explore potential options for restoring freedom and regaining lost rights.