Larry Zukerman, managing partner at Zukerman, Daiker and Lear in Cleveland, authored this guest column in the Cleveland Jewish News outlining the often-overlooked collateral consequences of criminal convictions — beyond the direct penalties of jail time, probation, and fines.
Zukerman identifies several key areas of collateral impact. First, FAFSA financial aid eligibility: students convicted of certain drug offenses, including marijuana possession under 200 grams, can be rendered ineligible for federal financial aid for periods ranging from one year to permanently. Second, firearms rights: a wide range of convictions, including certain felonies, sex offenses, drug offenses, domestic violence, and even a minor misdemeanor marijuana offense, can permanently bar a person from legally owning or possessing a firearm under Ohio and federal law. A Brady disqualification entered even without a conviction can also bar firearm possession.
Third, immigration consequences: noncitizen immigrants convicted of certain offenses — including gun laws, sex crimes, drug laws, crimes of moral turpitude, domestic violence, or DUI — face potential detention without bond and deportation. Fourth, professional licenses: convictions must be disclosed upon renewal and initial application for licensed professions, and boards may suspend, revoke, or delay licensure.
Zukerman’s closing advice: “Seek counsel before you decide whether you should plead guilty to an offense or decide to take a case to trial so that you are aware of all the consequences you may face.”
Read the full article here: https://www.clevelandjewishnews.com/features/special_sections/legal_affairs/unexpected-consequences-of-criminal-conviction/article_6049f094-51e1-11e7-9156-ffce0c096da7.html
