Expunge Your Record
If you have been arrested for a drug-related charge or any other charge, you may be concerned about having your record expunged. When your record is expunged, all charges are removed from your background and criminal history. Having a crime expunged from your record will benefit you in many ways including the following:
- Expunging your record will remove the crime from your background
- After being expunged, background checks will not include the crime, and you will be able to honestly tell your employer or potential employer that you have a clean criminal history
- An expunged record will not appear on your rap sheet if you are pulled over by the police or arrested again
- Once a record is expunged, it can help you in legal, financial, housing and employment matters for years to come
- A criminal record may prevent you from receiving financial benefits, grants, loans or leases, but an expunged crime will not show up on your criminal record
How do you get a blemish on your record expunged? While this guide is not intended to replace legal advice from a professional attorney, it may help you begin a conversation with your legal team, lawyer or attorney and help you know what to expect when it comes to clearing your criminal record. Keep in mind that these rules vary from state to state, and your criminal history and the nature of your past crime can impact your ability to expunge your criminal record.
Are You Eligible for an Expungement?
Only certain crimes may be expunged from a record. If you committed a particularly violent or serious crime, you may find that you are unable to have your record removed. Always check with your lawyer to make sure these rules apply to you. For instance, you may not be eligible for an expungement if the following applies:
- You have more than one criminal conviction on your record
- Your conviction made you eligible for life in prison
- You committed a felony, sex crime or violent crime of any type
- Your state will only let you expunge records that are more than 3-5 years old (this varies from state to state)
How Do I Expunge a Crime from My Record?
As you enter recovery, you may be eager to begin a new life that allows you to put the negative aspects of your history behind you. For many people, an expungement is symbolic of a greater life change toward wellness and healing. In most cases, you must follow a few key steps in order to achieve an expungement. These steps may include the following:
- File a motion to expunge in the court where you were originally convicted. You may file the motion on your own, or you may use a lawyer.
- Prove that you have taken steps to live a better life. One way to prove this is to attend rehab and complete treatment successfully.
- Obtain certified copies of your court documents and orders. Contact your clerkâs office to find all records.
- Learn more about and pay expungement fees and all court fees. File all necessary documents in the county you were convicted. Keep your documents secure and in order at all times.
- Be on time for your hearing, and prepare to present yourself to the judge. Dress in church attire or professional work attire.
- Be prepared to be asked why you should have your record expunged.
Get Your Record Expunged
Learn more about how Foundations Recovery Network will work with you and your legal team to help you every step of the way. Call our toll-free helpline now at (877) 345-3221 to find out how we can help you.
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