Can one mistake change the rest of your life? For many people facing a felony charge, the answer is yes. A conviction can follow you well beyond your sentence—limiting everything from your right to vote to where you can live or work.
That’s why legal guidance matters from the very beginning. At the Law Office of Robert M. Maurer II & Associates, we’ve spent over 30 years helping Texans fight felony accusations and reduce the long-term damage they cause. We know our clients personally. We speak Spanish. And we’re available 24 hours a day because legal emergencies don’t follow a 9-to-5 schedule.
In this article, we’ll look at how a felony conviction can change your rights, your opportunities, and your everyday life—and what legal options might help you reclaim control.
1. Loss of Civil Rights
A felony conviction can cost you several constitutional rights, including:
- Voting rights(which may be restored later depending on the state)
- The right to own or possess a firearm
- Eligibility for public office or jury duty
These restrictions vary by jurisdiction, but many of them remain even after time has passed.
2. Barriers to Employment and Licensing
Felony records are often visible to employers and licensing boards. That can block access to:
- Government jobs
- Positions in education, healthcare, or law enforcement
- Professional licenses for trades like real estate, nursing, or plumbing
Some employers offer second chances, but many don’t. In high-trust roles, a felony charge on your record can disqualify you altogether.
3. Housing and Financial Restrictions
Landlords and property managers often reject applicants with felonies. Banks and lenders may also deny loans or lines of credit—especially if the conviction involved financial crimes.
You may also face:
- Difficulty securing federal student aid
- Limited access to public housing or Section 8 assistance
4. Immigration Consequences
For non-citizens, a felony charge can trigger deportation—even if you have legal status. Convictions involving violence, drugs, or theft can be especially serious under immigration law.
5. Social and Family Impacts
Felony convictions can affect custody battles, adoption eligibility, and child visitation rights. Rebuilding trust and maintaining relationships becomes harder with a criminal record attached to your name.
Is There Any Way to Reverse the Damage?
In some cases, yes. Depending on the type of conviction, you may qualify for post-conviction relief, including:
- Record sealing or expungement
- Clemency or pardons
- Probation modifications
- Appeals
These are not guaranteed, and they require a strong legal strategy—but they can make a difference.
Don’t Let One Charge Define Your Future
A felony charge doesn’t just end with court—it follows you for years. If you’re facing accusations or already convicted, you need a felony attorney who understands what’s truly at stake.
At the Law Office of Robert M. Maurer II & Associates, we’ve been representing individuals across San Antonio and South Texas for decades. Robert M. Maurer is from South Texas, educated there, and dedicated to defending the rights of Texans. Whether you’re dealing with a first-time offense or multiple charges, we provide direct access to an experienced felony defense lawyer who knows how the system works and how to protect your long-term future.
Call now at (210) 222-8284 to speak with a criminal defense attorney in San Antonio who knows the courts, knows the community, and will fight for your future like it’s their own.
