14 Oct The Consequences of a Felony Conviction in Arizona
Criminal Law Specialist Todd Coolidge has over two decades of experience in criminal law, and he’s seen the damaging effects a criminal record can have on a person’s life. That’s why he’s committed to fighting for his clients to the end. However, the law in our Grand Canyon State is strict on felony convictions. Once a person has a felony conviction in Arizona on their record, the unfortunate news is, time in prison is not the only consequence they will face.
The Consequences of a Felony Conviction in Arizona
1. Child Custody
If you are faced with a custody case and have a felony conviction in Arizona on your record, it could be grounds for preventing you from receiving joint custody. When your case involves drugs, a DUI, or domestic violence, as a parent you will generally be presumed to be an unfit guardian unless you can show that your felony is over 5 years old.
2. Civil & State Employment Penalties
A felony record will prevent you from voting in elections, serving on a jury, obtaining a commercial driver’s license, or possessing a gun. In addition, it could negatively impact your chances of getting hired for a state employment position.
3. Educational Assistance
If you were convicted of a felony offense and while receiving education grants and loans, for a first-time offense you will be barred from further assistance for one year. A second offense will bar you for two years, and a third offense for life.
4. Food Stamps and Social Security Benefits
A felony record could prevent you from obtaining food stamps or social security benefits if you are found not complying with your probation or parole (If you have a family, they will still be eligible for food stamps).
5. Housing
Depending on the crime, if you are living in public housing, you may be required to move out for a period of time, or perhaps indefinitely.
6. Military Service
You may not be able to join the military if you have had a felony record expunged, the charges dismissed or have received a pardon.
A Defense You Can Trust
The consequences of a felony conviction in Arizona are not limited to those listed above. It all depends on the type and severity of the crime. If you are facing a felony charge, it’s imperative that you find the right council. Todd Coolidge of Coolidge Law Firm is a criminal defense attorney with experience and a record you can trust. Call our office today for a free consultation: (480) 264-5111.
Photo by Maksym Kaharlytskyi on Unsplash (10/14/2018)