While a conviction for operating while intoxicated (OWI) may not be as severe as more violent crimes, it can still have far-reaching consequences for a college student. The stigma it leaves can ruin your personal and professional relationships and even affect your future career opportunities.
An OWI conviction can have a lasting impact on your future, but it doesn’t have to define your life. Through expungement, the criminal record can be set aside. This blog will explore some long-term benefits of expungement for college students.
Allows persons to pursue certain careers or licenses
There’s no denying that a criminal record makes someone ineligible to apply for specific careers, such as healthcare occupations, child care, and jobs involving elderly service or care. Some laws also prevent those with criminal records from applying for professional licenses, such as a license to practice law. Expungement seals a person’s criminal record so they can pursue these careers or licenses unimpeded.
Prevents potential discrimination and bias
Several studies have found that many employers would likely not be willing to hire an applicant with a criminal record. Although background checks allow employers to assess the risk an applicant poses to their current staff, customers and reputation, they’re not perfect and can skew perceptions. Having a criminal conviction expunged would avoid this unfortunate practice and even improve a person’s chances of getting hired.
Enables persons to earn a higher salary
A report from Pew Charitable Trusts found that a 48-year-old formerly incarcerated person will have earned $179,000 less than if they weren’t imprisoned. The study also noted that the number of years of work experience potentially lost due to incarceration isn’t a major factor compared to the fact that a person had been convicted of a crime. A person previously convicted of a crime will see their yearly earnings reduced by 40%.
By understanding these benefits and the potential impact an OWI conviction has on your prospects, you can take your first step toward a fresh, clean start. However, it’s important to note that expungement is not guaranteed, and the outcome will depend on the specific circumstances of your case. By working with a legal professional, you can make informed decisions about your future.