Connecticut has strict penalties for people who have been convicted of a felony. Any felony charge in the state will bring with it the possibility of prison time of more than a year in addition to significant fines. However, there are other consequences that can be severe and even lifelong.
According to a report from the Connecticut General Assembly, there are several privileges that a convicted felon no longer has, including the following:
- A felon is not permitted to own firearms
- A felon is not able to hold public office.
- A felon may not vote.
Additionally, a felon could stand to lose certain professional licenses if the agency so chooses. For example, the State Board of Education will revoke certifications or permits from felons who have been convicted of specific crimes.
When it comes to finding gainful employment, convicted felons often face stumbling blocks. The Center for Economic and Policy Research notes that having a felony on record will significantly affect someone’s ability to get a job. A convicted felon also may have difficulty finding housing. Many landlords require applications that ask for criminal background information. They are usually within their rights to deny residency or evict a felonious tenant they deem to be dangerous to the safety of others.
Lastly, sex crimes convictions in Connecticut nearly always necessitate sex offender registration. Some crimes, such as first-degree sexual assault, will require a lifelong registration.
Due to the severity of these consequences, it is imperative that people accused of a felony understand their rights and know how to build a strong defense.
