Debunking common myths about convicted felons
The internet has inaccurate information about what rights convicted felons have and what rights they lose. Below, we will give you up to date information to use if you are convicted of a felony.
1. Convicted felons can't qualify for apartments, rental homes, or purchase a home.
This is not true. While it may be hard to find an apartment to accept you, it is not a requirement that landlords or management companies have to deny your application because of your criminal record.
- When searching for apartments, calling the leasing office and asking their specific approval criteria is a good place to start. Most apartments and rental property management companies won't accept crimes of a sexual nature, aggravated or violent charges, or trafficking/distributing narcotics charges.
- Some tenants have better luck going through private landlords or individuals that rent homes.
- Some apartments and rental homes require a larger security deposit to secure their property and rental income.
- Felons can qualify for a mortgage loan to buy a home, but some lenders check criminal background for proof of stability and ability to pay their loan. It may be difficult to find a mortgage lender but each lender has specific approval criteria.
- If you need emergency housing or to rent a room, sober-living homes are a great option for people that are just released from prison or jail. Sherman, TX, Denison, TX and Gainesville, TX have sober living homes called the Oxford House. There is a move in fee, interview with the other occupants of the house, and weekly rent. The benefits of sober-living homes are proven to increase your chances of staying clean, providing a safe place to live, and learning how to reintegrate into society. They do not take sex offenders. Click here for a link to the Oxford House Website.
2. Convicted felons can't vote.
Convicted felons can vote after the completion of parole, probation, or sentence. You need to register to vote after your sentence is completed.
3. Convicted felons can't get a passport or travel internationally
Convicted felons can get a passport after the completion of parole, probation, or sentence. The application is available at the post office or online. Exceptions to getting a passport are convictions for the following:
- International drug trafficking
- Trafficking minors
- Sex tourism offenses
- People who owe more than $2500 seriously delinquent tax debt
- People who have an unsealed federal warrant for arrest
4. Convicted felons can't own a firearm
Section 46.04 of the Texas Penal Code makes it illegal for someone convicted of a felony to possess a firearm. If more than 5 years have passed since completing their prison sentence, parole, or probation, the law allows a felon to possess a firearm in the home. Federal law does not allow that exception.
5. Convicted felons can't get a PELL grant or scholarships
Felons can qualify for federal financial aid to go back to school. They qualify for scholarships too. Some state grants ask if you have been convicted a drug charge or alcohol charge. Colleges and universities will accept felons too.
Criminal Defense Lawyers in Greenville and Bonham
Being a convicted felon doesn't mean your life is over and you can't move on with your life. For some, getting a felony conviction is the wake up call they need to seek help with substance abuse issues, anger issues, or other behavioral issues. It is also possible to get your record expunged or sealed. To learn more, you should contact Jessica McDonald & Associates today by calling or submitting an online form today and schedule a Consultation.