Salem, Massachusetts Criminal Defense Lawyer
Consequences for criminal convictions are not always apparent from the statute alone.
In Massachusetts any drug conviction results in loss of your drivers license.
This is why it is critical that you have all the information you can before tendering any plea for any such charges you may be facing.
Even a restraining order issued will have consequences not readily apparent: not being allowed to volunteer at your children's school, or acting as a scout leader, obtaining or keeping some jobs.
Even though restraining orders are civil matters, it may be advisable to obtain representation in order to oppose the issuance of the order at a hearing.
Gun permits. Surrendering of any firearms is clearly stated on any restraining order issued against you if that box is checked off. For criminal charges, this is not so clear. A judge may order the surrender of your FID and right to firearms at your arraignment, even absent a restraining order issued. You could lose your right to own guns as a result of an admission or conviction for many crimes. You could lose your right and FID as a result of a conviction for even relatively minor criminal conduct, like reckless operation of a motor vehicle or disorderly conduct. Again this will not be stated in the statute you are charged with violating.
Immigration concerns. These must always be considered when non-citizens are charged with a crime. Even an admission without convictions (i.e. a CWOF) can cause a non-citizen to face serious immigration consequences, like deportation, denial of re-entry after leaving the US, or being prevented from ever becoming a citizen.
Sex Offender registration. Even less serious sex offenses like open and gross lewdness, indecent exposure, or indecent assault and battery could result in being required to register as a sex offender, but there are ways to avoid this in many cases. Conduct such as "answering a call of nature," a "wardrobe malfunction" or an un-consented touching of the wrong person in the wrong way could present the prospect of having to register with the Sex Offender Registration Board. This brings its own set of collateral effects: on jobs, housing and other dire and unforeseen potential consequences.