A felony charge in Florida, like in many other states, can have serious and long-lasting consequences. Here’s an overview of its impact and potential steps to overcome these challenges:
Impact of a Felony Charge in Florida
Incarceration
Felony charges can result in prison sentences. The length varies depending on the degree of the felony and the seriousness of the offense. Some prison sentences are mandatory.
Fines and Forfeitures
Convictions can come with substantial fines. Federal convictions are often accompanied by hefty fines and forfeitures, especially targeting profits of drug fraud crimes.
Probation
Probationary periods may be mandated, which come with specific conditions and requirements. Probation can often be terminated early where the conditions and financial obligations have been met.
Loss of Rights
Convicted felons in Florida lose the right to vote, the right to serve on a jury, and the right to bear arms. Some of these rights, such as the right to vote, can be restored, but it’s a process that doesn’t guarantee success.
Employment Challenges
Felons often face difficulty in securing employment. Many employers are hesitant to hire individuals with felony convictions.
Housing Difficulties
Many landlords and housing authorities conduct background checks. A felony conviction can be a barrier to securing housing.
Loss of Professional Licenses
Some professions bar or suspend individuals with felony convictions. Some small businesses, especially those dealing with the public, do not allow convicted felons to work for them.
Enhanced Penalties for Future Convictions
A previous felony can enhance the penalties for any subsequent crimes, including being labeled as a habitual or career offender. Prior convictions can double or triple a sentence and dictate whether a prisoner is eligible for time off for good behavior while incarcerated.
Overcoming the Impact
Expungement or Sealing of Records
In certain circumstances, Florida law allows individuals to get their criminal records expunged or sealed. This action makes the records less accessible to the public, potentially aiding in job or housing searches.
Rights Restoration
The Clemency Board in Florida can restore civil rights to felons, including the right to vote, serve on a jury, hold public office, and the right to bear arms. The process can be long and arduous, but it’s a step toward normalcy.
Legal Counsel
Hiring an attorney with knowledge and experience is essential to a successful outcome after an arrest. Engaging an attorney who is knowledgeable about post-conviction remedies can be invaluable. They can guide you through processes of reversing a conviction, reducing a sentence and expungement or rights restoration.
