Legal Blog

Collateral Consequences of a Criminal Conviction in Indiana

27 March 2019 | Criminal Defense,  Legal Blog,  

Attorney Sean Hessler

Written by
Sean Hessler

Posted
27 March 2019

Categories
Criminal Defense,  Legal Blog,  

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Most people understand the possible penalties of a criminal conviction in Indiana could include fines, probation, and even incarceration. But criminal convictions – even misdemeanors – can result in additional consequences that could affect your livelihood, reputation, and relationships.

Because the damage of a criminal conviction is so far-reaching, it is vital that you contact an Indianapolis criminal defense attorney for help. Attorney Sean Hessler has years of experience in the Indiana criminal law system, and he’s prepared to help you. To schedule a free consultation of your case, call (317) 886-8800 today, or reach out through the online form.

Criminal Convictions and Employment

While many jurisdictions are restricting how criminal histories can be used in hiring, employers are not required to hire those with a record. For instance, if you have a conviction related to financial crimes, you likely will not be considered for any position where you have access to money. That bad check charge could mean you won’t get a bank job, or a conviction for embezzling will likely bar you from an accounting position.

Depending on your conviction, you may find that you cannot continue to work in your chosen profession. If you were a teacher, for instance, there are 19 felonies that bar an individual from teaching in the state/could cause you to lose your professional license. Furthermore, under Indiana law, health care facilities that contract nurse aides or other unlicensed employees, may not knowingly employ those with convictions for, sex crimes, exploiting an endangered adult, theft, felony battery, and various other offenses.

What About Reputation?

A consequence of a criminal conviction in Indiana is registering as a sex offender. Depending on the charge, you may be required to disclose your conviction to employers, landlords, and neighbors. Not only may you be prohibited from working with vulnerable populations (such as children and the elderly), you might be restricted in where you can live or where you can go – such as parks and schools.

For alcohol-related offenses, you might have your license suspended, and are forced to tell your employer you can’t work certain hours thereby undermining your reputation and reliability. Or, you may be required to have a breathalyzer installed in your vehicle, which could be embarrassing the next time you drive passengers.

A criminal conviction might also harm your chances for advancing your education or pursuing certain careers. Most colleges and universities inquire as to whether you have any convictions. Some professional licensing boards even mandate that you pass a character and fitness exam, which includes questions regarding any criminal record.

The Effects on Relationships

Criminal convictions related to domestic violence, alcohol or drugs, traffic violations, firearms, and sex crimes can have major consequences to your relationships, especially with your children. In addition, the relationships with your spouse, business partners, or co-workers could suffer.

If you are a parent and are convicted of violent crimes or DUI, you may hear from Child Protective Services for an investigation. The issue may be even more serious if you share custody or have visitation because the other parent might start proceedings in a family court case to alter your parental rights.

Contact an Indianapolis Criminal Defense Lawyer for Help

Long after your probation ends, a fine is paid, or you are released from incarceration, the consequences of a criminal conviction in Indiana continue. Because a conviction can affect your livelihood, reputation, and relationships, you need a criminal defense attorney who will find to protect your rights.  Sean Hessler has years of experience helping clients resolve their legal issues while mitigating the impact on their lives. To schedule a free consultation of your case, contact Hessler Law, PC today at (317) 886-8800.