Hidden Penalties for Convictions in Texas
Texas criminal convictions come with the potential for serious consequences. Life, liberty, and reputation are all at risk if you or someone you know is convicted of a crime in Texas. When a person is convicted of a crime in Texas, they may face more than just the standard penalties. Convictions in Texas can carry hidden penalties, such as difficulty obtaining a job, housing, or even getting a loan. These hidden penalties can have a lasting and profound impact on a person’s life.
For example, many people are unaware that a conviction in Texas can lead to the suspension or revocation of a person’s driver’s license. This can have a major impact on a person’s ability to get to work, run errands, and even travel. Additionally, a conviction can lead to the suspension or revocation of a professional or occupational license, like those needed for doctors, nurses, or lawyers. One can lose their ability to drive, and even their ability to work in their current employment, as a result of a conviction in Texas. Some of the hidden penalties to be aware of include the following:
1. Loss of Employment
Many employers are hesitant to hire someone with a criminal record, so a conviction in Texas can put someone in a position where they can’t find gainful employment. This can have serious financial implications for the individual and their family.
2. Loss of Professional Licensure
Texas has a number of professional licensing boards that may revoke or suspend a professional license if the holder is convicted of a criminal offense. This can have a devastating effect on one’s career and financial security.
3. Difficulty with Housing
4. Loss of Voting Rights
In Texas, a person convicted of a felony loses their right to vote until they have completed their sentence and any required probation or parole. This can have a serious impact on an individual’s ability to participate in the political process.
5. Loss of Gun Rights
In Texas, a person convicted of a felony or certain misdemeanors is prohibited from possessing a firearm. This can have serious implications for an individual’s ability to protect themselves and their family.
- Probation: Probation is one of the most common hidden penalties for convictions in Texas. Depending on the crime, probation can last anywhere from six months to 10 years. During this time, the convicted person must follow certain rules set forth by the court. If these rules are not followed, the person may face additional penalties.
- Fines: Depending on the crime, fines may be imposed. Fines can range from hundreds of dollars to thousands of dollars. It’s important to understand the potential fines associated with a conviction.
- Restitution: Restitution is another potential penalty that a person may face. This requires the convicted person to compensate the victim for any financial losses they incurred as a result of the crime.
At Gallian Firm in Dallas, Texas, we are experienced and know how criminal convictions can impact someone’s life. Our work and passion is to ensure that you never face a conviction, let alone get slammed by a hidden penalty.
Gallian Firm provides the most aggressive, skilled legal representation in Texas, so that our clients either get charges dropped, reduced, or face minimal consequences if ever convicted. Our criminal defense lawyers are experienced and have a deep understanding of the criminal justice system in Texas. We have the knowledge and experience to guarantee the best representation for our clients. Contact us for a free consultation today. All of our communication with you will be held strictly confidential.