Archie Hayes A criminal record can be a shackle to an individual who just wishes to continue their life in the right way.
According to the National Conference of State Legislatures, about 77 million Americans have a criminal record. But, with Clean Slate Law, individuals with certain criminal records can now move forward with their lives by restricting the disclosure of past convictions to potential employers after a certain period. These laws typically involve expunging or sealing criminal records for qualifying offenses.
When a record is expunged, Delisa Williams PC says that a criminal conviction is erased or sealed. Your record will no longer be accessed by the public, although it may still be accessed by law enforcement and some government agencies.
Let’s study in this article how an expungement can change the course of your life once you’re granted it.
Understanding Expungement: What It is and Who Qualifies
Expungement is a legal process that either erases or seals that criminal record so a person may move on with their life, freed from their troublesome past. However, not everyone qualifies. Factors to determine include an offense’s nature, the amount of time elapsed, compliance to court requirements like payment of fines or probation
Tampa Gun Crime Lawyer Paul L. Figueroa says the gun convictions come with serious consequences. Most gun penalties result in a misdemeanor or a felony conviction. Both felonies and misdemeanors have different degrees. A misdemeanor can result in a jail sentence of up to one year and substantial fines reaching as high as $1,000. A probation can even last up to 12 months.
Compared to felonies, misdemeanors are more likely to be expunged. Stay updated with your state’s local laws and requirements, as this may differ from other states.
The Role of an Expungement Lawyer in Your Case
An expungement lawyer makes sure that any layperson can easily comprehend the difficult procedures of clearing a criminal record. With their knowledge and training on laws and rules relevant to your case, your eligibility will be put into consideration.
Your lawyer will collect all needed documents, prepare an application, and file it properly to eliminate all possible causes for delays or denials. During a court hearing, they will be present and make sure to advocate for you and your case.
Consulting with an expungement lawyer can help you avoid several dangers as you pursue your case. They will be able to provide you with knowledge of how to deal with the case objectively.
Benefits of Clearing Your Criminal Record
All employers conduct background checks and a clean record makes you an ideal candidate for employment.
Housing becomes much easier to find because landlords are more likely to favor tenants who have no history of crime.
Having your record cleared makes you feel you have reclaimed your dignity, even restoring your rights to vote and possess guns.
A clear record allows you to move on with your life, relieving you of the stress associated with having a criminal record.
The Expungement Process: Step-by-Step
A clean slate is certainly a chance for many. But there is a procedure you must follow if you wish to expunge your record.
Start by gathering all relevant documents, including arrest records, court dispositions, etc. Every state has different laws and policies on expungement, so check if you are eligible to apply for it. If eligible, fill out the required forms you may find online or through your lawyer. Then, the forms are submitted to the court. Be aware that fees may apply, so consider this when proceeding.
Your case will be presented to the court before a judge. If your request is granted, your record will either be sealed or destroyed, liberating you from the burden of your past.
Frequently Asked Questions About Expungement Lawyers
Fees have to be discussed early on in the initial consultation. Some law firms charge a flat fee, while others charge on an hourly basis.
You may also want to inquire about the duration it will generally take because different timelines may apply for different cases.
Maintain an open communication with your lawyer. A good lawyer would listen to your concerns and keep you updated on the progress of your case.
Clearing your criminal record with the help of an expungement lawyer will open doors to several opportunities. An expunged record will prepare you for a clean slate, giving you second chances in life.
