Some of the most serious crimes that someone can be accused of are sex crimes such as rape, and sexual assault. For this reason, those who are convicted of such crimes face steep fines and significant prison sentences. You will also lose certain rights such as owning or possessing a firearm (for violent sex crimes) and the right to vote. Convicted of a felony, you may also never serve in the military or sit on a jury. However, these aren’t the only consequences of such a conviction. There are also non-legal consequences that can prove just as – if not even more – impactful.
1. Your reputation will be ruined.
While any criminal conviction can greatly impact your reputation, a criminal conviction for a sex crime can impact you immensely. Criminal convictions are part of court records, which are accessible to the public. Therefore, anyone who runs your name in a government database can see what you were convicted of. Because of your conviction, it can be difficult to overcome the perceptions that others have of you and equally difficult to maintain or establish relationships.
2. It may be hard to find rental housing.
Since your criminal conviction is available to the public, any potential landlords who would consider renting a property to you may choose not to. Most forms you will be required to fill out to rent will ask you about your criminal history as well. Since background checks are pretty standard for renting out properties, it may be hard to obtain rental housing.
3. You may find great difficulty getting a job.
When you apply for a job, background checks are the “norm.” Therefore your conviction for a sex offense may deter most employers. If your profession involves a licensing board (such as nursing or law), it’s almost guaranteed that your conviction will force you out of your industry altogether.
4. You may be deported from the country.
Individuals who are green card holders can be deported for crimes known as “crimes of moral turpitude.” Sex crimes fall under this category and can lead to your deportation from the U.S. If you are deported you may never be allowed back in the country again.
Joel Hancock at Hancock Law Firm, PLLC Helps Those in North Carolina Who Have Been Charged with a Sex Crime
If you have been charged with a sex crime, you should take it very seriously. It’s important to understand that you have the right to defend yourself and prove your innocence. Your best bet of doing so successfully is with the help of a knowledgeable and experienced North Carolina criminal defense attorney who understands what you are up against and will fight on your behalf.
At Hancock Law Firm, PLLC, we fully understand what is at stake and will do everything that we can to help you to fight this order. To learn more or to schedule a free consultation, contact us today!