A criminal record can have a significant impact on a person's life, even long after they have served their sentence. From difficulty finding employment to being denied housing, a criminal record can make it challenging to move forward and make a fresh start. Fortunately, there is a legal process called expungement that can help individuals clear their record and move on from their past mistakes.
Expungement is a process that removes or seals an individual's criminal record from public view. This means that if someone has a criminal record expunged, they can legally say that they have not been convicted of the crime in question. While the process of expungement varies from state to state, it generally involves filing a petition with the court and attending a hearing.
One of the primary benefits of expungement is that it can help individuals secure employment. Many employers conduct background checks on potential employees, and a criminal record can make it difficult to get hired. By having their criminal record expunged, individuals can increase their chances of finding employment and start building a better future for themselves and their families.
Another benefit of expungement is that it can help individuals gain access to housing. Many landlords and property managers conduct background checks on potential tenants, and a criminal record can make it challenging to find a place to live. By having their criminal record expunged, individuals can increase their chances of being approved for housing and avoid the discrimination that can come with having a criminal record.
Expungement can also provide individuals with a sense of closure and a fresh start. By removing their criminal record from public view, individuals can move on from their past mistakes and focus on building a better future for themselves and their families. This can be especially important for individuals who have made one-time mistakes and are trying to move forward with their lives.
It is essential to note that expungement is not available for all criminal convictions. Additionally, the process of expungement can be complex and time-consuming, and it is recommended that individuals seek the assistance of an experienced attorney to navigate the process. An experienced attorney can help individuals determine if they are eligible for expungement and guide them through the process. They can also help individuals prepare their petition and represent them at the expungement hearing. By working with an attorney, individuals can increase their chances of a successful expungement and start building a better future for themselves and their families.
If you would like to speak with a lawyer about your case, call Brinkley Law today at 317-643-1813.