Collateral Consequence of a Criminal Conviction
Definition
A penalty that attaches to a criminal conviction but is not directly specified as part of a person’s sentence of incarceration, probation, or fines and costs. Collateral consequences are usually triggered by civil statutes rather than penal codes or rules of criminal procedure. Examples of collateral consequences include prohibitions from professional licensure and certain types of employment, deportation of noncitizens, disruptions of child visitation and custody, and loss of civic duties including the right to vote and serve on a jury.