A conviction during adolescence can have lasting effects on a young person’s future. Even if a teen learns from their mistakes, college and career prospects might never be the same.
Understanding these potential impacts is important for parents and guardians who want to help their children overcome such challenges.
College admission struggles
Many colleges and universities require applicants to disclose any criminal history. Admissions committees often view a conviction as a sign of poor judgment or a lack of responsibility, which may lead to a denial of admission. Even if the conviction occurred years ago, it can still influence a school’s decision. Some institutions may be more lenient, but others could see it as a red flag that outweighs academic achievements and extracurricular involvement.
Difficulty securing financial aid
Certain criminal convictions, particularly those related to drug offenses, may make a student ineligible for federal financial aid. This may include grants, loans and work-study programs. Losing access to these resources could make college unaffordable for many families, limiting the child’s educational opportunities.
Employment barriers
Many employers conduct background checks as part of the hiring process. A criminal record can disqualify a candidate from consideration, regardless of their qualifications. In competitive job markets, employers may have little incentive to overlook a conviction when they have other candidates without a criminal record. Even after securing a job, a conviction can limit career advancement, especially in fields requiring a professional license. Fields such as healthcare, education and finance have a particularly low tolerance for criminal history.
Taking proactive steps to address and overcome the challenges created by a conviction is essential. Proper guidance and support make it possible to navigate these obstacles. Facing criminal charges with a strong legal defense can prevent the harmful effects of a conviction in the first place.