Almost every adult in the United States could theoretically be charged with committing a federal crime, according to a report from the Wall Street Journal. Because the average American isn't well-versed in state and federal law, people sometimes don't even realize when they've potentially committed a felony.

However, being convicted of a crime can have many long-term consequences on a person's life – especially when that person is a teenager or young adult.

If you're a parent, you want only what's best for your child. Unfortunately, many young people make bad decisions that can affect them for the rest of their lives.

If your child has been convicted of a crime, you are undoubtedly extremely concerned for their future. Whether they got caught up in the wrong crowd or just didn't realize they were breaking the law, your child could struggle to find employment, financial stability, and more because of their conviction.

Your child's mistakes shouldn't have to haunt them for the rest of their life. By becoming educated on what happens after being charged with a felony, you can take steps to ensure that your child does not have to live with the heavy burden of a conviction. Here are some general answers to some common questions that you may have.

What kind of impact will being arrested have on my child's ability to get jobs later?

Approximately 92% of employers have stated that they subject some or all of their employees to criminal background checks, According to a study conducted by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). Typically, the kind of information that will show up on a criminal background check includes:

• Convictions
• Arrests
• Warrants
• Court records
• Incarceration records
• Sex offenses

Although it is possible to find employment after an arrest, it can be a frustratingly difficult process.

Do I have to tell an employer I was arrested?

While you do not necessarily have to voluntarily disclose this information to your potential employer during the initial application unless asked, you will most likely be asked for your permission to do a background check later in the process. If criminal convictions do come up in your background check, the best course of action to take is to explain to your employer how you have changed since the incident, and what you have learned from the experience.

How can I conceal a criminal record?

If you meet certain requirements, you might be able to have your criminal records expunged in Connecticut. If your criminal record is expunged, it's as if the crime never took place. Legally, you can say that you don't even have a criminal record.

Your record can be erased if the following circumstances are true for you:

• Your case was dismissed.
• You were charged for a crime, but you weren't found guilty.
• The charges were dropped at least 13 months ago.
• Your case was put on hold with no prosecution or disposition at least 13 months ago.
• It has been at least 3 years since you were convicted of a misdemeanor.
• It has been 5 years since you were convicted of a felony.

How Erin Field Can Help

Life after a conviction can feel frustrating, difficult, and hopeless. If your child has been charged with a felony, you may feel as if their future has been stolen from them. However, it doesn't have to be this way.

As a respected and experienced criminal defense lawyer, I am completely dedicated to fighting for my clients. Neither you nor your child should have to live with the heavy burden of a criminal conviction without taking aggressive action to make it better. I have a 100% success rate for first-time offenders, and I will do everything necessary to help you move on with your life after a conviction.

Contact me, attorney Erin Field to set up a free and confidential case evaluation today.