A criminal conviction can change your life forever. The changes usually come immediately upon conviction and may continue long after a sentence is served. Three consequences of a criminal conviction are:
- You will have to serve your sentence: depending on the crime, that sentence may include jail time, a fine and/or probation.
- You may have trouble getting a job: employment applications often ask if you have been convicted of a crime. You will be required to answer that question and your employer may conduct a criminal background check. Your conviction may prevent you from getting a job to support yourself.
- Your ability to rent an apartment may be limited: landlords, like employers, may ask if you have been convicted of a crime and may conduct a criminal background check. They may refuse to rent you an apartment based on your past criminal convictions.
Therefore, long after your jail sentence ends and your probation period expires a criminal conviction will continue to affect your life. For these reasons it is important for to hire an experienced Illinois criminal defense attorney who can help you before you are convicted. Your attorney can safeguard your rights and present a strong defense given the facts of your case. If you or a loved one have been arrested or anticipate criminal charges being brought against you then please contact a Chicago criminal defense lawyer for a consultation today.