A criminal record can limit your job, housing, and future opportunities. Learn how criminal convictions affect your life in Arkansas — and what steps you can take to clear your name.
A criminal conviction doesn't just impact your present — it can follow you for years, affecting everything from employment and housing to your reputation and personal relationships. If you’ve been charged or convicted in Arkansas, it's important to understand your rights and your options for moving forward.
At Jensen Young & Butler, PLLC, our experienced criminal defense attorneys in Benton work with clients throughout Central Arkansas to minimize the long-term consequences of criminal records.
What Is a Criminal Record?
A criminal record is a permanent log of any arrests, charges, or convictions tied to your name. Even if you were not convicted, an arrest may still appear on background checks unless action is taken to remove it.
Criminal records may include:
- Misdemeanor and felony convictions
- Arrests without convictions
- Deferred adjudications or probation
- Charges that were later dismissed
How a Criminal Record Can Affect Your Life
1. Employment Opportunities
Many employers run background checks. A past conviction — especially for theft, violence, or drug charges — can disqualify you from job opportunities, professional licenses, or promotions.
2. Housing & Renting
Landlords often screen tenants. A criminal history can lead to denied applications or limited access to quality housing, particularly for felony convictions.
3. College & Financial Aid
Some colleges and scholarship programs restrict access for applicants with certain convictions. Drug charges, in particular, may affect your financial aid eligibility.
4. Gun Rights
Felony convictions and some misdemeanor domestic violence charges can lead to the loss of your right to own or carry a firearm in Arkansas.
5. Reputation & Relationships
Even a single mistake can damage your personal reputation, affect child custody cases, or create barriers in social and professional circles.
Can You Clear a Criminal Record in Arkansas?
Yes — Arkansas law allows expungement (also known as “sealing” a record) for many non-violent offenses, first-time convictions, and even some felonies. Sealing a record makes it invisible to the public, including employers and landlords, though it may still be visible to law enforcement.
You may qualify for expungement if:
- You completed probation or a diversion program
- Your case was dismissed or you were acquitted
- You have only one non-violent felony
- The offense qualifies under Arkansas Code § 16-90-1401
Our team can evaluate your record and guide you through the expungement process.
What If You’re Facing New Charges?
The best way to protect your future is to avoid a conviction in the first place. If you’ve been arrested, it’s critical to speak with a qualified criminal defense lawyer in Arkansas right away.
JYB Law defends clients facing:
- DUI/DWI charges
- Drug possession or trafficking
- Assault, battery, and domestic violence
- Theft, burglary, and white-collar crimes
- Juvenile offenses
Take Control of Your Future Today
A criminal record doesn’t have to define your life. Whether you're seeking expungement or need immediate defense against new charges, JYB Law is here to help.
