Over 7 million people are reported to have criminal background information in the state of New York as of the end of 2012 according to the Bureau of Justice Statistics, and that number has only increased since then. This makes up approximately one-third of the population of New York State who may suffer often unexpected collateral consequences as a result of a criminal conviction.
Earlier this month, Michael Cibella, as President of the Kings County Criminal Bar Association, organized a Continuing Legal Education program to examine the myriad of potential collateral consequences of criminal convictions here in New York State. These consequences can affect your right to enter or remain in the United States if you are not a citizen, as well when searching for employment, student financial aid and housing.