The Consequences of a Felony Conviction

Full Video Transcript

If you’ve been convicted of a felony, there are certain public rights that you have essentially lost. These include the right to vote or hold a public office, the disqualification from jury service for seven years, and the ability to possess firearms. Depending on the type of felony, you may even lose your eligibility for student loans, public housing, or to serve as a foster parent or teacher. When applying for a job, applicants are usually asked to disclose any prior convictions, including felonies. Although private employers are barred from discriminating against felons under Title VII, they may refuse to offer employment if the disqualification is based on a “business necessity.” Finally, many states have enacted “three strikes laws,” which subject repeat violent felons to mandatory prison sentences. If you’ve been charged with a felony, you may be eligible to plea bargain the charge down to a misdemeanor or otherwise avoid the harsh consequences associated with a felony charge.