If you are facing charges of domestic violence, you normally wonder about the consequences you need to face and whether you serve jail time. The truth is that there are a lot of consequences these charges will bring. In Pennsylvania, legal penalties for a domestic abuse conviction include fines, jail time, or probation. Also, you may have to deal with a criminal record. So, if you have been arrested or charged with domestic violence, you consult with a criminal defense attorney in Pennsylvania who can defend you against such charges. A great attorney will do everything to reduce your chances of a conviction. And if you will be convicted, a layer will work to reduce the consequences of the conviction.
Will you Lose Your Job When Convicted of Domestic Abuse?
A domestic abuse conviction can lead to never-ending punishments even if you have served your time or completed probation. Your conviction will follow you into your future, affecting the following:
- Professional licensing. Because of a domestic abuse conviction, you may lose your current professional licensing. Also, you may find it hard to get future licenses.
- Employment, A conviction can result in you losing your job, particularly if this job requires weapon handling, child care, or dangerous substance transportation.
With such consequences, your finances can become a serious issue and result in even more problems. You can even start facing financial hardship before trial since you may need to move out of your house and never contact the alleged victim due to a restraining order. Because a felony or misdemeanor conviction is visible on background checks forever, it will be hard to look for a job, particularly high-level employment.
Other Life Areas that Can be Affected
A domestic abuse conviction can also impact other areas of your life including the following:
- Child custody. You will not be granted primary child custody if you have been convicted as a domestic violence offender. Such a conviction will impact your family relationships and rights.
- Loans. Getting a loan can be quite hard due to a conviction and put you in an even more difficult financial situation. Because of this, you could go bankrupt.
- Renting and leasing. The majority of landlords will refuse to rent spaces to domestic violence offenders. Your alleged victim can end the rental agreement, and you must move out.
A domestic violence conviction has serious consequences. So, make sure to protect yourself before it can affect your whole life. A skilled defense lawyer can protect your rights and livelihood.
