The Cost of Having a Criminal Record in Daily Life

Frank Benvenuto, P.A.
Nov 17, 2025
3 min read

How a Past Charge Can Affect Your Future — and What You Can Do About It

By Frank Benvenuto, P.A. — Worcester County Criminal Defense Attorney

Having a criminal record affects more than court dates and fines. For many people, the true impact shows up later — when they try to get a job, secure housing, or apply for a professional license. Even a single charge, including one that is years old, can create barriers that most people never expect.

If you or someone you know has a criminal record in Maryland, understanding these challenges is the first step in overcoming them.

1. Employment: The Most Immediate Impact

For many people, the biggest consequence of having a criminal record is how it affects job opportunities.

Background Checks Are Standard

Most employers run criminal background checks, even for entry-level positions. A conviction — or sometimes just a charge — can influence hiring decisions, especially in fields such as:

Healthcare
Education
Childcare
Banking and finance
Retail and cash-handling positions
Government jobs

“Ban the Box” Helps, but Not Always

Maryland’s “Ban the Box” law prevents employers from asking about criminal history on an initial application. However, they can ask later in the hiring process — and many do.

A Record Doesn’t Always Mean “No”

Depending on the charge, an employer may:

Ask for an explanation
Evaluate the age of the offense
Consider rehabilitation efforts
Look at whether the charge relates to the position

With proper legal guidance, some records can be expunged or shielded, meaning they won’t show up on most background checks.

2. Renting a Home: Housing Challenges

Landlords almost always run background checks on prospective tenants.

Common Outcomes When a Record Is Found

You may face:

Applications being denied
Higher security deposits
Denial from larger property management companies
Limited rental choices

Why It Happens

Landlords worry about:

Potential liability
Perceived safety risks
Property damage
Compliance with insurance policies

Even minor charges — including disorderly conduct or possession offenses — can lead to a denied rental application.

You Still Have Rights

A landlord cannot discriminate based on:

Race
Sex
Disability
Family status
Religion
National origin

But criminal history is not a protected category under Fair Housing laws. This makes clearing your record, when eligible, extremely important.

3. Professional Licensing: A Hidden Barrier

Certain careers require a state-issued license, including:

Nurses & CNAs
Real estate agents
Cosmetologists & barbers
Contractors
Massage therapists
Insurance agents
Law enforcement & security officers

Licensing Boards Consider “Good Moral Character”

Many boards review:

The nature of the offense
How long ago it occurred
Patterns of behavior
Rehabilitation and community involvement

A criminal conviction can delay—or even prevent—someone from entering their chosen field.

4. How to Reduce the Impact of a Record

Many people are surprised to learn they may be eligible for:

Expungement

Certain charges, dismissals, and even some convictions in Maryland can be removed from public view.

Shielding

Some nonviolent convictions may be hidden from most employers and landlords.

Legal Advocacy

If your record is hurting your opportunities, a skilled attorney can:

Review what can be expunged or sealed
Petition the court on your behalf
Correct errors on background checks
Advise you on how to discuss your record with employers or licensing boards

A Criminal Record Doesn’t Have to Define Your Future

Having a criminal record may create challenges, but it does not have to control your life. The most important step is knowing your rights and exploring every option to protect your future.

If you are struggling with the consequences of a criminal charge — old or new — I can help.