List of Things Felons Can’t Do? Legal Limits Listed

Last updated on December 21st, 2025 at 07:44 am

If you’ve been convicted of a felony, you face big challenges. A felony conviction limits what you can do in many areas. This includes voting, getting a job, or finding a place to live.

Knowing these limits is key to moving forward after a conviction. You might find it hard to get back into society because of these restrictions.

When you’re trying to rebuild your life, it’s important to know what you can’t do. This knowledge helps you make better choices for your future.

Understanding Felony Convictions and Their Impact

A felony conviction does more than just punish you. It affects many parts of your life. It can limit your freedom and make it hard to fit back into society.

It’s important to know the difference between state and federal felonies.

Differences Between State and Federal Felonies

State felonies are crimes that follow state laws. Federal felonies are crimes against federal laws. The penalties and rules can be very different.

Knowing this helps those with felony convictions. It affects their rights and what they can and can’t do.

Voting and Civic Participation Restrictions

The right to vote is key, but for those with felony convictions, it’s often taken away. Laws about voting for felons differ a lot across the U.S. This makes it hard for people with felony convictions to know their voting rights.

In many places, people with felony convictions face big hurdles to vote, even after they’ve served their time. These rules can last long after they’ve left prison. For example, some states make you wait or need extra steps to vote again.

Lately, there’s been a push to change these laws. The goal is to let more people with felony convictions vote. Some states now automatically give back voting rights when a sentence is finished. Others have made it easier to get these rights back. [List of Things Felons Can’t Do?]

Even with these changes, the rules are still different and often debated. Supporters say giving back voting rights helps people fit back into society. Others think some rules are needed. So, it’s important to know the voting rules in your state.

Employment and Professional Licensing Barriers

Felony convictions can make it hard to find a job. Employers might be hesitant to hire someone with a criminal record. This can limit job opportunities for felons. [List of Things Felons Can’t Do?]

Many jobs need licenses that felons can’t get. This limits what felons can do for work. For example, jobs in healthcare, education, and law enforcement often require strict background checks.

Ban the Box Initiatives and Their Impact

“Ban the Box” initiatives remove the question about criminal history on job apps. This lets felons be judged on their skills first. These efforts are growing in many states, pushing for fair hiring.

“Ban the Box” helps felons by delaying background checks. This gives them a better shot at getting hired. But, the effect can differ by state, and some employers might still check backgrounds.

It’s important to know the “Ban the Box” rules in your state. Some states offer more protection for felons, while others have stricter rules.

Housing Limitations and Residence Restrictions

People with felony convictions face many challenges, including housing limits. These limits make it hard for them to find stable homes. Stable housing is key for their rehabilitation and to lower the chance of them going back to crime. [List of Things Felons Can’t Do?]

After a felony, where you can live is often limited. Some places have laws that keep people with certain crimes away from schools and parks. These rules are meant to keep everyone safe but can push people to live alone or on the move.

If you’re facing housing problems because of a felony, there are steps you can take. The Fair Housing Act says you can’t be discriminated against in housing because of certain things. This includes criminal records, especially if the crime isn’t related to the housing.

Knowing your rights and the housing rules for felons is important. You might need to get legal help to find a place that fits the rules and meets your needs.

Complete List of Things Felons Can’t Do: Legal Limits Listed

If you’ve been convicted of a felony, knowing the limits is key. These restrictions touch many parts of your life. They include jobs, homes, and even online activities.

Felons can’t do many things, like get some jobs or licenses. Knowing these rules helps you live with a felony. [List of Things Felons Can’t Do?]

Digital and Online Restrictions

In today’s world, being online is a big part of life. But, felons face special rules online. [List of Things Felons Can’t Do?]

There’s no total ban on social media, but some rules apply. For example, you might not be allowed to see or share certain content. This is because of probation or parole rules.

Some states also limit sex offenders’ online access. This is because of laws about minors and the internet. Knowing these laws is important to stay out of trouble.

Other digital limits might apply, like to online shopping or money deals. This is especially true if your crime was about money. Knowing these rules helps you stay safe online.

Even with these limits, there’s hope for change. You can work to get back some rights. Getting legal advice and understanding the rules can help you take back control.

Financial and Public Benefits Restrictions

A felony conviction can affect your finances and access to public benefits. It can also limit your chances to start a business. You might find it hard to get loans or credit because of legal rules.

With a felony, getting public benefits like housing or food stamps can be tough. These benefits are key for getting back into society. They help you achieve financial stability. [List of Things Felons Can’t Do?]

Starting a business with a felony conviction is tough. Legal rules can block you from getting the money or licenses you need. Many places check your background, which can lead to denial.

But, there are groups and resources to help. Look into community financial institutions or non-profits that support entrepreneurs with criminal records. They can offer alternative funding.

Knowing the legal rules and getting advice from experts is crucial. It helps you understand your rights and the challenges in business. Being informed is key to success. [List of Things Felons Can’t Do?]

Restoration of Rights and Expungement Options

A felony conviction can affect your rights for a long time. But, there are ways to restore and expunge your rights. You might be able to regain your rights and fully participate in society again.

Restoration of rights and expungement are different. Restoration means getting back rights you lost, like voting or owning a gun. Expungement means sealing or erasing your criminal record.

How you restore your rights varies by state. Some states automatically restore rights after a time. Others need you to apply. Knowing your state’s laws is key to the process.

For example, some states let you expunge your record after your sentence. Others might have a wait or need a petition. Learning your state’s laws helps you choose the right path.

Looking into restoration and expungement is a big step after a felony. Knowing your state’s rules is important to get your rights back and move forward. [List of Things Felons Can’t Do?]

Conclusion: List of Things Felons Can’t Do?

Life after a felony conviction can be tough. There are many legal limits and restrictions for people with criminal records. It’s important to know the consequences, like laws that take away voting rights and activities you can’t do.

You’ll face many challenges, like finding a job or getting a professional license. You might also struggle with housing and money issues. Knowing about these problems can help you make better choices and find ways to clear your record.

Getting your rights back and clearing your record can make a big difference. It lets you join in civic activities and overcome some of the hurdles of having a felony. By learning about the laws, you can start the journey to becoming a part of society again.

See Also: What 11 States Can a Felon Own a Gun?

Van Maldonado

Van Maldonado, born in California, holds a degree in Criminology and Police Science. Currently serving as an investigative officer at a local police station, he spends his leisure time writing insightful content for FelonScope.com.