When someone is released from prison, it typically takes them a while to find a good job. Some never find what they would consider a “good job” and instead find employment that barely covers the bills. Such is the life of a convicted felon—struggling to rejoin a society that too often turns its back.
One man, wrongfully convicted of rape and recently freed by DNA evidence isn’t having such problems. No, he’ll be writing legal briefs and working for the attorney who helped free him. Michael Green wrote the 13 page letter that ultimately earned him his freedom and he hopes to be able to help other wrongfully convicted Texans do the same.
Green was sentenced to 75 years in a Texas prison for raping a Houston woman. He has since been cleared by DNA evidence. Not a complete angel, Green admits his past lifestyle may have made him a target for police during the rape investigation, though he was innocent of that particular crime.
In addition to working for the attorney that helped gain his freedom, the man who spent 27 years in prison for a crime he didn’t commit is also looking forward to speaking to the youth about staying out of trouble.
Not many people who do time see these kinds of benefits so soon after being released from prison. Being exonerated of the charges certainly has something to do with this because having a felony conviction on your record can make it extremely hard to find gainful employment.
Research shows that employment is the top indicator of recidivism. This means if you have a job you are far less likely to get into additional legal trouble. But finding a job is just one of many obstacles to overcome when you have a criminal record.
The best way to avoid such circumstances is avoiding a conviction altogether. Having a defense attorney on your side to help you through the criminal process can make a major difference not only in your stress level but also potentially in the outcome of your case.
Whether it’s a felony or a misdemeanor, a property crime or a more serious violent crime—a defense attorney can help you weigh your options and discuss the best potential outcomes. Contact me today if you are facing criminal charges.
