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Consequences for Criminal Convictions Outside of Jail or Prison Time
Most people believe that jail or prison time is the most common—and perhaps only—consequence for a criminal conviction. The reality is that many first time offenders will often serve little or no jail or prison time at all. However, that does not mean that a criminal conviction does not come with serious life changing consequences.
Probation
When you are convicted of a crime, but you are not sent to jail, you may be placed on probation and will have to report to a probation officer regularly. You have to allow yourself and your property to be searched at any time. Additionally, you will probably be subject to polygraph tests and drug tests. Finally, you will have to report whom you are associating with and where you have been.
If you fail to meet the conditions of your probation, your probation may be extended or you may have to go to jail. It is possible to be on probation much longer than the amount of time you would have gone to jail.
Civil Lawsuits
If the crime for which you are convicted had a victim, you may be vulnerable to a civil lawsuit. Even if the judge in your case ordered some amount of restitution as part of your sentence, a victim can go to civil court and sue you for damages. Because you already have a criminal conviction, you will most likely lose the lawsuit, and the only question is how much you will have to pay.
Life After a Conviction
Even if you never serve a single day in jail for a criminal conviction, the conviction can still follow you for the rest of your life. It will come up on background checks for everything from your job to volunteering at your child’s school. Moreover, a criminal conviction can make it difficult to obtain a job or a professional license.
Many people also often feel ashamed of having a criminal conviction. Being on probation and feeling as though one has few options can lead an individual to commit additional crimes, and it can turn a person into a career criminal. However, in some instances, it may be possible to have a previous criminal conviction removed or expunged from one's record.
If you have been arrested or charged with a crime, do not speak to anyone about your case until you have consulted with an attorney. You need to speak with a tough and dedicated DuPage County criminal defense lawyer right away. Call 630-260-9647 today to schedule a consultation. Make sure you understand your rights and the full consequences of your actions.
Source:
http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/fulltext.asp?DocName=072005700K410
630-260-9647
From our office in Wheaton, Illinois, we serve clients throughout the Chicago area including but not limited to Winfield, Warrenville, West Chicago, Glen Ellyn, Naperville, Lisle, Downers Grove, Lombard, Oak Brook, DuPage County, Kane County, Will County, and Cook County.
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