The penalties for a drug charge can be severe, life-altering and long-lasting. Depending on the drug class and offense type, there are different levels of fines and jail time associated with any drug conviction. And while worrying about potential fines and jail time may be overwhelming in the short term, there are also long-term impacts to consider.
How can having a drug conviction on your record negatively impact an individual over the course of years? Adverse impacts can be experienced in many areas of an individual’s life, such as employment challenges, housing complications, education setbacks, child custody issues, travel restrictions, and social consequences.
Employment Challenges
One of the most significant consequences facing those convicted of a drug charge exists in the employment arena. Most employers complete a background check during the hiring process, making it a huge red flag for hiring managers who become aware of past drug offenses. In fact, in many industries, those who have been convicted of a drug charge may not be able to hold certain positions including within the healthcare, law or finance industries.
Not only can it be challenging to find a company that will hire a convicted individual, but there may also be limited advancement in a given career with that negative mark on a criminal record. Many who have been convicted of a drug offense may lose their current position when it is revealed to their employer.
Housing Complications
Similar to employers who conduct background checks, landlords and property management companies do the same for renters. A drug conviction may be the basis of denial, thus limiting your options for housing.
Drug charges may impact the ability of individuals hoping to purchase a home to get a mortgage. Certain loan programs conduct background checks, while others ask for self-reporting.
Educational Setbacks
If you are considering pursuing higher education, no matter how many years after a drug conviction, it may negatively impact your admissions to the college or university of your choice and your ability to access scholarships, financial aid, and grants/loans.
Child Custody Issues
One heartbreaking impact of a drug conviction may be felt in child custody cases. A parent who has a drug conviction is at a great disadvantage in a custody case making them at risk of losing custody or having limited custody of a child.
Travel Restrictions
For those with a drug conviction on their record, it may be difficult to travel internationally as many countries have restrictions or may deny entry or visas to people with criminal backgrounds. While this may deter a convicted individual from leisure travel, it may also limit where they can travel for work as well.
Social & Personal Consequences
Drug charges not only take a professional and legal toll on individuals, but they can also impact friendship and family relationships. Drug charges can strain even the strongest relationships, leaving an indelible scar for years. Ultimately, the stigma of a drug conviction can follow people for a long time, impacting their reputation, mental health and ability to rebuild their lives.
If you are facing a drug charge, please contact a qualified and experienced attorney to help you have the best possible outcome for both the short and long term. Contact our team at The Law Office of Patrick Conway.