Felony Convictions: The Ripple Effects on Your Future

In Texas, all felony charges carry the possibility of more than one year in prison—and in some cases, defendants face the risk of dramatically more time behind bars. Beyond the immediate penalties, a felony conviction can also have many other very serious long-term consequences. Here, our Richardson criminal defense attorney provides a comprehensive overview of key things to know about the ripple effects that a felony conviction can have in Texas. 

Background: In Texas, a Texas Creates a Permanent Criminal Record (Very Difficult to Seal)

A felony charge—especially a felony conviction—is a very serious matter. Felony convictions have lasting impacts that can shape your future in significant ways. When you are convicted of a felony, it is about a lot more than just serving time. The mark on your record can undermine your future in many different ways. In Texas, it is very difficult—and, in many cases, not possible at all—to seal a felony conviction. Our state has strict expungement laws

Know the Ripple Effects: The Long-Term Adverse Impact of a Felony Conviction

When a person is charged with a felony criminal offense, the first thing on your mind is likely your freedom. This makes sense: A felony conviction could take away your freedom. At the same time, it is also important to consider all of the potential long-term consequences. The ripple effects of a felony conviction in Texas can include: 

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  Temporary or Permanent Barriers to Education (Financial Aid): Education can be the stepping stone to a better future. Unfortunately, a felony conviction can actually make it harder to climb. Many colleges and financial aid programs have strict rules about criminal records. You might find yourself ineligible for loans, grants, or scholarships—thereby making it difficult to pay for school. 
• Challenges Getting the Best Housing (Rental or Mortgage): Imagine finding the perfect place to live, only to be turned away because of your past. Landlords and mortgage companies often do background checks. A felony conviction can make them see you as a risk they are not willing to take. Of course, where you live matters. If you are denied the best housing opportunities can lead to living in less desirable areas or struggling to find a place at all. You may end up somewhere that is less safe with a lower overall quality of life. 
• More Difficult to Advance in Your Career: You may struggle to get a good job after being convicted of a felony. Even if you manage to find a job that you like, climbing the career ladder can be a steep uphill battle. Employers might be hesitant to promote someone with a felony conviction, fearing trust issues or public image concerns. This can leave you stuck in low-paying, unstable jobs, making it hard to build a stable, fulfilling career. According to research from the Brennan Center for Justice, a felony conviction reduces future earnings—even when controlling for all other factors. 
• May Not Be Approved for Certain Professional Licenses: In Texas, many careers require a professional license. Unfortunately. a felony conviction can put these out of reach. Some of the most prominent fields—from medicine to law—have strict moral character requirements. Without the necessary license, you will not be able to legally work in these professions. In other words, a felony conviction can close off entire career paths.
• Difficulty in Obtaining Loans and Other Types of Credit: Financial stability is key to building a good life, but a felony conviction can make it much harder to achieve. Banks and credit institutions often see those with criminal records as high-risk borrowers.  You might be denied loans or face high interest rates, making it difficult to buy a car, own a home, or even start a business. Without access to credit, it can be harder to make large purchases or invest in opportunities that could improve your life. For those who want to launch their own business in Texas, lack of access to financing can be especially challenging. 
• Conviction Could Be Used Against You in Child Custody Case: Are you a parent of young children or teenagers? Do you think you could become a parent at some point in the future? A felony conviction can impact your family life deeply. In child custody cases in Texas, the court looks at the best interests of the child. A felony record can weigh heavily against you. Although the specific circumstances always matter, the reality is that you might find your relationship with your children limited. 
• Potential Loss of Your Second Amendment Rights: The United States Constitution and the Texas Constitution both protect your right to bear arms. However, this right is not without some limitations. In fact, in many cases, a felony conviction can strip you of this right. You may not be able to own firearms in the future if you are convicted of a serious felony offense in Texas. 

Do Not Plead Guilty to a Felony Without a Defense Attorney

Are you or your loved one facing a felony criminal charge in Texas? Do not take on the legal process alone. You cannot rely on police or prosecutors to look out for your legal rights or your long-term interests. In some cases, the prosecution could propose a plea agreement that seems relatively favorable on the surface level but could carry very serious adverse long-term consequences. A top-tier North Texas criminal defense attorney will review the allegations, answer your questions, consider the long-term consequences, and take action to protect your rights, freedom, and future. 

Contact Our North Texas Felony Criminal Defense Attorney for Immediate Help 

At JBABB Law, our Richardson, TX, criminal defense lawyer goes the extra mile to provide the highest legal or personalized representation to clients. We help take on all types of felony criminal cases. Contact our criminal defense law firm today to set up a completely confidential case review. With a law office in Richardson, we defend felony charges throughout the entirety of North Texas, including in Garland, Plano, Addison, Highland Park, Carrollton, and Dallas.