Have you ever wondered if your criminal record can be cleared? If you’ve committed a crime and served your sentence, the answer is yes – your record can be expunged. This process involves legally removing past offenses from public view so that employers and other institutions don't have access to them. It’s important to know the specifics of expungement before you apply, so here are five things you should know about having your records expunged.
Eligibility Requirements for Expungement Differ by State
Before filing for an expungement, it's essential to understand the eligibility requirements in your state as they vary from place to place. Make sure you are familiar with the laws in your jurisdiction before applying for an expungement.
Different Crimes Qualify for Expungement
Not all crimes are eligible for expungement; some states allow only certain types of convictions to be sealed or removed from a person’s criminal record. Examples of crimes that may qualify include minor drug possession charges, misdemeanors, and non-violent felonies such as burglary. However, violent felonies and sex offenses typically do not qualify for expungement.
The Process Can Be Complicated
The process of getting records expunged can be complicated and time-consuming. If you're struggling with understanding how it works or don't have enough time or energy to tackle it yourself, reach out for help from a qualified attorney, such as Brabazon Law Office, LLC, which specializes in criminal law.
There Is Usually a Waiting Period Involved
In addition to meeting eligibility requirements, most people must wait a certain amount of time before applying for an expungement—for example, two years after completing their sentence or probation period. It's important to note that each state has its own waiting period requirement; make sure you understand what is expected in yours before proceeding with the application process.
An Expunged Record Is Not Erased Entirely
In some cases, law enforcement agencies can still access an individual's criminal record even after it has been "expunged." So while employers generally won't be able to see them, government organizations still might have access depending on the specific circumstances surrounding each case. It's essential to consider this when deciding whether or not to pursue an expungement in order to avoid any potential issues down the line.
Expunging your record is possible, but many factors require careful consideration before moving forward, such as eligibility requirements and waiting periods, so take the time necessary to get properly informed first. With proper research and guidance, you can successfully clear up past mistakes and move forward confidently, knowing that those records won't affect future opportunities.
