Felony convictions carry penalties beyond prison time. In Tennessee, felons often face “collateral consequences” that affect their lives long after their sentences are complete.
Firearms ownership
In Tennessee, individuals convicted of a felony lose the right to possess or own firearms. Restoration of this right is possible, but it requires navigating complex legal processes, such as obtaining a pardon or expungement. Certain violent felony convictions may make restoration more challenging or even impossible.
Voting rights
Felons in Tennessee lose the right to vote upon conviction. Voting rights can be restored after completing the sentence, including parole or probation. To regain this right, individuals must pay all court-ordered fees, restitution, and child support, and submit a Certificate of Restoration of Voting Rights to the election commission.
Family court issues
Felony convictions can influence family court decisions, particularly in cases involving child custody. Courts consider the best interests of the child, and a felony record may affect a parent’s ability to gain custody or visitation rights, especially if the conviction involved violence or endangerment.
Access to housing and welfare programs
Finding stable housing can be difficult for felons, as many landlords and housing authorities perform background checks. Public housing programs often deny eligibility to those with certain felony convictions. Additionally, access to welfare programs like food assistance may be limited, depending on the nature of the conviction.
Moving forward after a felony conviction
Tennessee offers options to address some collateral consequences, such as expungement for eligible offenses or rights restoration processes. While these steps require effort and legal guidance, they can help individuals rebuild their lives and regain lost opportunities.
