Facing charges for a felony means that you’re being accused of one of the most serious types of crime on the books. This reality can result in life-altering impacts on you and your loved ones. You may particularly feel the ripple effects of a felony charge if your marriage is on the rocks or your kids are already going through tough times.
Understanding the challenges you may have to grapple with can shed more light on how legal trouble can cause – or exacerbate – turbulence in your marriage.
Financial impact and burden
The financial consequences of a felony charge can hardly be ignored, especially if you are your family’s breadwinner. Incarceration and the challenges of securing employment after release can lead to significant financial strain on your family in the event of a conviction.
For example, if you are facing felony charges for embezzlement or fraud, you may lose your job or professional license. The loss of income can make it challenging to pay for essential household expenses, leading to financial instability. In divorce cases, this can complicate a division of assets and the determination of child custody, as the felony charge may drastically alter the family’s financial picture.
Emotional and psychological strain on relationships
A felony charge can introduce or zero in on the emotional strain on your marital relationship. The uncertainty and fear of what the future may hold can lead to:
- Increased tension
- Pointless arguments
- Breakdowns in communication
Your partner may experience anxiety over potential outcomes, such as:
- Long-term imprisonment
- Loss of employment
- Social stigma
For example, if you’ve been accused of a violent crime, your spouse may feel a sense of betrayal or fear for their safety, even if the allegations aren’t true. This emotional disconnect can lead to a breakdown in trust, which is often the foundation of a healthy relationship. Over time, these unresolved emotional issues can make it difficult to maintain the relationship, leading to separation or divorce.
If you are dealing with felony charges, seeking legal help for guidance about how to protect your rights and pursue available options can be beneficial. Being proactive in addressing the situation can reduce some of the negative impacts and help safeguard your family’s future. Although the journey may be challenging, being informed and prepared can significantly influence the outcome.