Prostitution is a crime in most countries, and if you are convicted of prostitution, it will be on your criminal record. The length of time that prostitution stays on your record depends on a number of factors, including the laws of the jurisdiction where you were convicted, the type of prostitution charge, and your criminal history.
In general, prostitution charges are considered to be misdemeanors, and misdemeanors typically stay on your record for 7 years. However, there are some jurisdictions where prostitution charges are considered to be felonies, and felonies can stay on your record for much longer, up to 20 years or more.
If you have a clean criminal record, you may be able to have your prostitution charge expunged or sealed. Expungement means that the record of your conviction will be destroyed, and sealed means that the record of your conviction will be kept confidential, but it will still exist. The specific requirements for expungement or sealing vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction, so you should contact an attorney to discuss your options.
Even if your prostitution charge is not expunged or sealed, it may not have a significant impact on your life. Many employers do not run background checks that go back more than 7 years, so if your conviction is more than 7 years old, it is unlikely to come up in a background check.
However, there are some situations where your prostitution conviction could still affect you. For example, if you are applying for a job in law enforcement or the military, your conviction could disqualify you. Additionally, if you are applying for a visa to enter the United States, your conviction could be a factor in the decision.
If you have been convicted of prostitution, it is important to understand how the conviction will affect your life. You should contact an attorney to discuss your options and to learn more about the laws in your jurisdiction.
Here are some tips for dealing with a prostitution conviction:
- Be honest about your conviction with potential employers.
- Explain the circumstances of your conviction and how you have changed since then.
- Show that you are a law-abiding citizen and that you are not a risk to the community.
If you are struggling to deal with a prostitution conviction, there are resources available to help you. You can contact a lawyer, a therapist, or a support group. There are also websites and hotlines that can provide information and support.
Remember, you are not alone. Many people have been convicted of prostitution, and there are resources available to help you move on with your life.