A criminal record can close off many potential paths to the future. It does not, however, close off all of them. If you have a criminal record, you will have the ability to move forward in life. Below are three ways to get your life back on track after a conviction.
Get Your Records Expunged
If you are a first-time offender who has done your time quietly and successfully, there’s a chance that you can move on with your life without having to deal with the conviction on your record. This process is called expungement and it can seal the records of your criminal charge in state and/or federal databases. While this won’t get your time back, it will officially make it as if the crime never happened. Expungements can be difficult to get and expensive to pursue, but they are absolutely worthwhile if you can get them.
Stay Out Of Jail
This should go without saying, but the most important step you can take is to stay out of jail. This means complying with all conditions of your release, staying away from people and places that can get you in trouble, and complying with the law at all times. If you do ever find yourself in trouble again there are companies, like Rader Bonding Co, that can help you figure out bail so you can get on track to move forward with your life. Your road will be difficult enough without adding more trouble, so try to stay on the straight and narrow as much as possible.
Be Honest
Finally, you’ll need to be honest about your past. Yes, there will be jobs on which you will lose out because of your record. Your life will almost certainly be more difficult because of what you reveal. This is, however, a much better alternative than getting caught lying on an application. There are jobs you can pursue when you’re honest and a number of business owners who would hire you—but only if you’re willing to come clean about your past and how you have changed. If you want to move forward, you have to be honest about what you have left behind.
If you want to get your life back on track, you’ll have to work for it. You will need to pursue options pertaining to expungement, stay on the right path, and be honest about what you’ve gone through. Getting your life back will take time, but it is entirely possible.
Author Bio: Emma Sturgis is a freelance writer living in Boston, MA. When not writing, she enjoys reading and indoor rock climbing. Find her on Google +
