Expungements

Expungement is a legal process that removes an arrest or conviction from your record by withdrawing your plea of guilty (or no contest) and having your case dismissed. When a criminal record is expunged, employers, state law enforcement, or the public should not be able to find out about it (but federal law enforcement might still know about it).

A criminal record may keep you from getting schooling, housing, a job, a license, or a permit you need for a job. An expungement can help you remove that record and help you get the shelter, education or job you need to support yourself and your family.

The expungement process involves analysis of your case and situation, legal research, filing paperwork, and a hearing before the relevant court. This process applies to most misdemeanor and minor felony cases. There are alternative ways to set aside a conviction for serious felonies. Expungements include:

• Withdraw pleas and get cases dismissed

• Expunge misdemeanor or felony convictions

• Get felony convictions reduced to misdemeanors

• Seal and destroy juvenile records

• Get arrest records expunged

• Obtain Certificates of Rehabilitation and Pardons

• Petition for findings of factual innocence

Most misdemeanors and lower-level felonies are eligible for expungement three years after the sentence or probation has been satisfied.  DUI's and higher-level felonies are eligible for expungement five years after the sentence or probation has been satisfied.  Most sex crimes, and crimes involving the death of another or abuse of a child, cannot be expunged.

Expunged records include:

• arrests

• bad checks

• commitments

• complaints

• diversions

• convictions

• fingerprints

• forgery

• index cards

• judicial docket records

• photographs

• processing records

• rap sheets

• warrants

There is no good reason  not to petition the court for the expungement of every eligible arrest, diversion or conviction. When properly completed, expungements can remove obstacles to employment and bring closure, emotional relief and a fresh start on your life. Contact The Sheena Law Firm today to discuss your case.