If you have a criminal record, you probably tend to experience regret for your past actions. Do you ever wish that you could go back in time and never commit the act in the first place? Were you a teenager going through a rough time, with few options and zero positive influences in your life? Did you just make one bad choice that has now come to define your entire adult life? Record sealing and expungement might be a solution so that you no longer need to dwell on your past criminal offenses.
When you go through the process of record sealing or expungement, your criminal record essentially disappears. While federal, state, and other law enforcement agencies can still access your record after it is sealed, the public usually cannot. This means that your wish to go back and change your criminal record can really come true. You have a much better chance of getting those jobs you applied for, a better loan rate on the house you have been eyeing, and even a chance to adopt a child. While this might seem too good to be true, if you meet the right criteria and have the help of an expungement attorney, this can be your reality.
The Law Office of Lisa Pelosi specializes in expungement law and other criminal defense litigation, and we have developed this resource so you can see if you are a good candidate for record sealing. Below are the factors that courts consider when someone files for expungement.
Age at conviction time
If you were a minor when you were convicted of a crime, you have a higher chance of being granted expungement. This does not mean that you cannot seal your record if you developed a criminal record as an adult, but rather that your case might be more harshly scrutinized.
Type of conviction
Depending on the state, you can get criminal records expunged more easily depending on the severity of the crime committed. For most first-time drug offenses, you can qualify for expungement after completing a court-ordered drug or alcohol treatment program. Misdemeanor crimes also have a higher likelihood of getting expunged. If you have any sex offenses on your record, expungement is typically much more difficult. If you have any questions about your specific criminal record, call the Law Office of Lisa Pelosi for a free consultation.
Current record
If you have only committed one offense and have completed the court-ordered requirements, you are more likely to have your record expunged. The likelihood of expungement drops considerably if you have multiple offenses on your criminal record.
With more than 30 years of experience as a criminal defense attorney in New York, attorney Lisa Pelosi can help you navigate your expungement proceeding. Call today for a free consultation, and we can help you determine whether you might qualify for record sealing. We have seen the power that record sealing has when it comes to improving quality of life for our clients and their families, so you should certainly see if expungement might be an option for your criminal history.
