It’s terrifying to be accused of a crime and even worse when that crime is a sex crime such as sexual assault or rape. Individuals who are convicted of a sex crime are subject to very serious legal consequences, such as lengthy jail sentences and steep fines. They may also lose various rights such as the right to vote, or in cases of violent sex crimes, the right to own or possess a firearm. They may also be banned from serving in the military or sitting on a jury if convicted of a felony. But the legal ramifications of a sex crime conviction may actually be the least of your concern. A sex crime conviction could lead to more than just criminal consequences; it can greatly impact many aspects of your life – for the entirety of your life.
Your reputation will be forever tarnished.
One of the most important things we have in life is our reputation; how we are perceived and treated by others. Since a criminal conviction will show up on court records, which are available to the public, anyone will be able to see what you were convicted of. When people find out that you were convicted of a sex crime it can forever change others’ perception of you and therefore how you are treated. It can be really difficult to go through life with this new reputation.
You may find it difficult to rent a property.
If you are looking to rent a property, it can be very difficult since most landlords not only ask you about your criminal history on your application but will also run a background check on you. Most landlords do not want to rent their property to someone with a criminal history – let alone a conviction for a sex crime.
Getting a job will be much harder.
When you are released from jail or prison, you will need to find employment in order to make money you can live off of. However, since background checks are pretty standard, most employers will learn about your conviction and will choose not to hire you. Not to mention, if the profession you were in prior to your conviction required licensing, you can pretty much kiss that whole industry goodbye.
You may be deported.
If you are a green card holder and you commit what is called a “crime of moral turpitude,” you can be deported from the country. Sex crimes are considered crimes of moral turpitude so you may be looking at deportation without the ability to ever come back in the U.S.
Surovell Isaacs & Levy PLC Can Help Those in VA Who Have Been Accused of a Sex Crime
If you have been accused of a sex crime, you should take the accusation very seriously, as a conviction can have a forever-altering impact on your life. Remember that you have the right to defend yourself. An experienced Virginia criminal attorney can help you do so.
At Surovell Isaacs & Levy PLC, we will help you to fight for your rights and work to get you the best possible outcome. To learn more or to schedule a consultation, contact us today!
Posted in: Criminal Law, Sex Crime