Peek Law Group: Buda, TX Criminal Defense Attorney Practice Areas
The Texas criminal justice system is tough, and without a strong legal defense, you risk facing harsh consequences such as incarceration, heavy fines, and a lasting criminal record. To protect your rights and future, having a Buda criminal defense lawyer with the knowledge, skill, and determination to advocate aggressively for you at every stage of your case is crucial.
At Peek Law Group, our seasoned criminal defense attorneys in Hays County have a proven track record of defending individuals against felony and misdemeanor charges.
We have successfully handled a broad spectrum of cases, including those related to:
At Peek Law Group, we believe that one accusation does not define your character or your future. The impact on your life can be overwhelming, whether you’re facing charges due to a misstep, a misinterpretation of events, or an outright false claim.
Our dedicated legal team ensures that your voice is heard and your rights are vigorously protected. Contact our trusted criminal defense lawyers in Buda today to explore your legal options and take the first step toward building a strong defense.
What are the Collateral Consequences of a Criminal Conviction in Texas?
A criminal conviction in Texas carries far-reaching consequences beyond the immediate penalties of fines, probation, or incarceration. These collateral consequences can affect nearly every aspect of a person’s life, including employment, housing, education, professional licensing, immigration status, and more. However, the impact varies depending on the type and severity of the conviction, whether it was a misdemeanor or felony, and individual circumstances.
A criminal conviction can affect your future through:
Employment Consequences
- Many employers conduct background checks, and a conviction may disqualify individuals from specific job opportunities.
- Felony convictions often bar individuals from working in specific industries, such as healthcare, finance, education, or government positions.
- Some convictions, particularly those involving theft, fraud, or violence, can make securing jobs requiring trust or responsibility difficult.
- Employers may legally refuse to hire someone based on their criminal record, though some protections exist under Texas labor laws.
Professional Licensing & Certifications
- Many professions require state licensing, such as law, medicine, real estate, and teaching.
- A conviction—especially for felonies or crimes of moral turpitude—can lead to license suspension, revocation, or denial by state licensing boards.
- Even if licensing is granted, a criminal record can make finding employment within a licensed field significantly more challenging.
Housing Restrictions
- Many private landlords and property management companies conduct background checks and may deny housing applications due to a criminal record.
- Public housing programs (such as Section 8) may prohibit individuals with felony convictions—especially those related to drug offenses or violent crimes.
- A conviction can increase the difficulty of securing stable housing, leading some individuals to face homelessness or unstable living conditions.
Firearm Rights Restrictions
- Felony convictions result in a lifetime firearm possession ban under Texas and federal laws.
- Certain domestic violence-related misdemeanor convictions also prohibit firearm ownership.
- Texas law does allow some felons to possess firearms in their home five years after completing their sentence, but federal law still prohibits this.
Immigration Consequences (For Non-Citizens)
- Criminal convictions can have serious immigration consequences, including deportation, denial of visas, and ineligibility for U.S. citizenship.
- Crimes categorized as “aggravated felonies” or “crimes involving moral turpitude” can lead to immediate removal proceedings.
- Even lawful permanent residents (green card holders) can face deportation for certain convictions.
Loss of Voting & Civic Rights
- Felony convictions result in the temporary loss of voting rights in Texas. However, once an individual completes their sentence, parole, or probation, they can register and vote again.
- Convictions can also lead to disqualification from serving on a jury or holding public office.
Family Law & Child Custody Issues
- A criminal conviction—especially for violent offenses, substance abuse, or domestic violence—can impact child custody and visitation rights.
- Courts prioritize the child’s best interests, meaning a parent with a conviction may face supervised visits, restricted access, or even termination of parental rights in extreme cases.
- Convictions for failure to pay child support can lead to license suspension and further legal penalties.
Driving & Transportation Consequences
- Convictions for DWI, reckless driving, or other traffic-related offenses can result in license suspension or revocation.
- Certain offenses may increase car insurance premiums or lead to denial of coverage by some insurance providers.
- Commercial driver’s license (CDL) holders may lose their ability to work due to certain criminal convictions.
Education & Financial Aid Impact
- Some colleges and universities may deny admission to applicants with criminal records.
- Federal financial aid eligibility may be affected by certain convictions, particularly drug-related offenses.
- Professional schools (such as law or medical schools) may reject applicants with certain convictions.
Social Stigma & Reputation
- A criminal conviction can damage personal relationships, leading to isolation or strained family ties.
- Some individuals experience difficulty rebuilding their reputation, making it hard to reintegrate into professional and social circles.
- The stigma associated with a criminal record can lead to mental health struggles, stress, and difficulty in daily life.
Can You Reduce the Impact of Collateral Consequences?
While the effects of a conviction can be severe, there are legal options available to minimize the damage:
- Expungement – Some charges may be eligible, meaning the record is erased.
- Non-Disclosure Orders – Certain individuals may qualify for a non-disclosure order, which seals the record from most background checks.
- Appeals & Post-Conviction Relief – Challenging a conviction through appeals may help reduce or overturn the charges.
- Legal Advocacy – A strong criminal defense attorney can negotiate lesser charges, alternative sentencing, or dismissal, minimizing long-term consequences.
Every criminal case is different, and the collateral consequences depend on the specific charges, circumstances, and legal strategies used in defense. At Peek Law Group, we understand the long-term impact of criminal convictions and work tirelessly to protect your rights, freedom, and future.
Contact Our Dedicated Criminal Defense Lawyers in Buda, Texas
Your future is too important to leave to chance. If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges in Buda, Hays County, or anywhere in Texas, don’t wait—take action now. Call (512) 399-2311 or complete our online form to schedule a confidential consultation with a top-rated, bilingual criminal defense attorney at Peek Law Group today.
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