Being charged with domestic violence in Houston is a serious matter. Even if you avoid jail time, you could find yourself facing serious consequences as a result of your crimes. The charges will remain on your permanent record, which could impact several aspects of your life, such as employment.
A conviction for domestic violence could cause you to lose your current job. It could also make it harder to find a new job. In this blog post, we’re going to explore the legal implications of domestic violence charges in Texas, how a conviction can affect employment, and steps to take if you are facing domestic violence charges in Texas.
The Legal Implications of Domestic Violence Charges in Texas
Texas state law defines domestic violence as any act by one family or household member intended to cause physical harm, bodily injury, assault, or sexual assault against another family or household member. Domestic violence in Texas encompasses a range of offenses, including physical assault, sexual assault, emotional abuse, and threats of harm within a domestic setting. Depending on the circumstances, an arrest for domestic violence could result in either misdemeanor or felony charges.
The penalties for being convicted of domestic violence in Texas can go far beyond jail time and fines (which can range up to life in prison and/or $20,000). You could lose custody of your children, be placed under restraining orders, be ordered to undergo counseling, and be disqualified from certain housing and education opportunities. The conviction will appear on your permanent record, which could have a big impact on current and future employment.
How Can a Domestic Violence Conviction Affect Current Employment?
Many Texas employers have strict policies against retaining employees with criminal records, particularly those involving violence. An employee convicted of domestic violence could face immediate termination or suspension.
Domestic violence charges can also put professional licenses and certifications at risk. Many professional boards and regulatory bodies have strict guidelines regarding criminal convictions. A domestic violence conviction can result in the revocation of professional licenses and certifications, effectively ending a career.
High-Trust Professions and Domestic Violence Convictions
Certain professions demand high levels of trust, responsibility, and ethical conduct. A domestic violence conviction can significantly impact employment opportunities within these fields:
Education
The education sector places a strong emphasis on child safety and well-being. Teachers, counselors, and administrators interact closely with students, making trust and reliability essential. A domestic violence conviction can cast doubt on an individual’s ability to maintain a safe and supportive learning environment. This can lead to challenges in obtaining or maintaining employment in schools or other educational institutions.
Healthcare
Healthcare professionals are entrusted with the care and well-being of patients. A domestic violence conviction can raise concerns about a healthcare provider’s judgment, empathy, and ability to maintain patient trust. This can result in difficulty obtaining or renewing medical licenses, as well as challenges in finding employment within hospitals, clinics, or other healthcare facilities.
Law Enforcement
Law enforcement officers are held to the highest standards of conduct, representing the integrity of the justice system. A domestic violence conviction directly contradicts these principles and can have severe consequences for an officer’s career. It can lead to disciplinary actions, including suspension or termination, as well as the loss of law enforcement certification and firearms privileges.
These industries are just a few examples of professions where a domestic violence conviction can have a profound impact on employment opportunities. The consequences can extend beyond job loss, affecting an individual’s earning potential, career progression, and overall quality of life.
Challenges in Finding New Employment
Having a criminal record can also work against you when searching for new employment. Employers view such applicants as “high risk” and are often reluctant to offer them employment.
Background Checks
Many employers conduct thorough background checks as part of their hiring process. A domestic violence conviction will appear on these reports, immediately raising red flags for potential employers. This can limit job applications to a narrow pool of opportunities.
Wage Disparity
Individuals with a domestic violence conviction often find themselves accepting lower-paying jobs compared to their peers without a criminal record. The stigma associated with the conviction can impact earning potential and long-term financial stability.
Discrimination and Bias
Individuals with a domestic violence conviction often face discrimination and bias in the job market. Stereotypes and preconceived notions can prevent them from being considered for positions, even if they possess the necessary qualifications and experience.
Overcoming these challenges requires resilience, determination, and often, additional support from employment assistance programs or legal advocacy organizations.
Your Rights When Facing Domestic Violence Charges
If you’ve been arrested on domestic violence charges, it’s important to remember that being charged is not the same as being convicted. It’s crucial for those facing domestic violence charges to understand their rights and how to protect them.
Some of these rights include:
- The right to remain silent and refrain from making statements that could be used against you.
- The right to stop answering questions at any time.
- The right to know what crime or crimes you have been charged with.
- The right to a speedy and public trial, by an impartial jury
- The right to speak to an attorney.
The most important step you can take is to speak with an attorney as soon as possible after your arrest. The representation of a skilled Houston domestic violence lawyer like Lisa Shapiro Strauss could mean the difference between conviction and reduced charges or acquittal.
Your lawyer will help you take the necessary steps to protect your rights and job after being charged with domestic violence in Texas. They can provide legal advice, represent you in court, and work towards the best possible outcome for your case. They’ll be able to develop a defense strategy that effectively challenges the charges against you.
Depending on the situation, your lawyer may advise that it could be beneficial to inform your employer about the charges. Transparency can help in some cases, especially if your employer is willing to support you through the legal process.
Speak to a Houston Domestic Violence Defense Attorney
The impact of a domestic violence conviction on your job shouldn’t be taken lightly, and taking proactive steps can help mitigate these effects. With the right legal representation, you can navigate this challenging time and work towards a positive resolution.
Don’t let a domestic violence conviction impact your job. If you or someone you know is facing such charges, contact Houston criminal defense attorney Lisa Shapiro Strauss to schedule a free consultation and get the experienced support and representation needed to protect your rights and future.
