If you have ever been convicted of a crime, you know that the effects of a criminal record can be life-long. A criminal record can make it difficult to find a job, housing, or credit. In some cases, a criminal record can even prevent you from voting or owning a gun. If you have been convicted of a crime, you may be able to get your record expunged. Expunging your record means that the conviction will no longer show up on background checks.
Most people are familiar with the term “expungement,” but many do not understand the legal process or know how to go about getting their records expunged. An experienced expungement lawyer can help clear your criminal record so that you may move on with your life. There are many benefits to having your record expunged, and an experienced lawyer will ensure that the process is done correctly and efficiently.
Defining Expungement
An expungement is a court-ordered process where the criminal record of a person is sealed. This means that the public will not have access to the criminal record and the person will not have to disclose their past when applying for jobs or housing.
The process of expungement can be complicated, and it is important to have an experienced lawyer to guide you through the process. A defence attorney can help you determine if you are eligible for expungement and what steps you need to take to get your record sealed.
If you have been convicted of a crime, an expungement may be able to give you a clean slate. If you are eligible for expungement, it is important to contact a lawyer who can help you through the process.
How an Experienced Lawyer Can Help
When you are seeking to have a criminal record expunged, it is important to have an experienced lawyer on your side. Here are a few ways an experienced lawyer can help:
An experienced lawyer will know the ins and outs of the expungement process and can ensure that your paperwork is filed correctly. They will also be able to navigate the court system and advocate on your behalf.
An experienced lawyer will also be able to negotiate with prosecutors. In some cases, a prosecutor may be willing to agree to an expungement in exchange for certain concessions from the defendant. An experienced lawyer will know how to make these negotiations effectively.
Finally, an experienced lawyer can help you understand the possible risks and rewards of seeking an expungement. They can provide you with guidance as you weigh your options and make decisions about your case.
Benefits of Expungement
When most people think of the benefits of expungement, they think of a clean record. A criminal conviction can limit your ability to get a job, housing, or an education. It can also lead to higher insurance rates and make it difficult to volunteer for certain organisations. Expunging your record can help remove these barriers and give you a fresh start.
In addition to the obvious benefits of a clean slate, expungement can also provide some financial relief. If you have been convicted of a crime, you may be required to pay fines and court fees. Expunging your record can help you get these fees waived. Additionally, if you are eligible for expungement, you may also be able to have your probationary period shortened or eliminated altogether.
Qualifications for Expungement
An expungement is a legal process that allows an individual to have their criminal record sealed. This means that the public will not have access to the individual’s criminal history. In order to be eligible for an expungement, an individual must meet certain qualifications.
The first qualification is that the individual must have been convicted of a crime. This means that if an individual was charged with a crime but never convicted, they are not eligible for an expungement. The second qualification is that the individual must have completed their sentence. This means that if an individual is currently serving their sentence or on probation, they are not eligible for an expungement.
The final qualification is that the individual must not have been convicted of any other crimes since completing their sentence. If an individual has been convicted of another crime, they are not eligible for an expungement.
The Cost
An expungement is the process of legally destroying all records of an arrest, indictment, or conviction. This can be beneficial for people who have been arrested but not convicted, as it prevents the arrest from showing up on a background check. It can also be helpful for people who have been convicted of a crime that is no longer considered a crime, such as certain marijuana offences.
The cost of hiring a lawyer to help with an expungement varies depending on the lawyer and the complexity of the case. However, it is generally cheaper to hire a lawyer than to try to do it yourself. The average cost of hiring a lawyer is $1,500, while the average cost of doing it yourself is $600.
There are several reasons why it is cheaper to hire a lawyer than to do it yourself.
Conclusion
You’ve been arrested. You were read your Miranda rights and taken to the station where you were fingerprinted and had your mugshot taken. You spent the night in jail, and were released on bail the next morning. The entire experience was humiliating, and you’re now worried about what will happen to your record. Will this arrest show up on a background check? How will it affect your ability to get a job?
These are valid concerns, but the good news is that you may be able to have your record expunged. An experienced expungement lawyer can help you navigate the process and give you the best chance of having your record cleared.
The decision of whether or not to hire a lawyer is ultimately up to you, but keep in mind that the consequences of an arrest can be long-lasting and devastating.
