A Fresh Start: Expunging Charges from Your Criminal Record in Pennsylvania
Sometimes, an individual might find themselves in significant trouble after distinct situations lead to criminal charges. For instance, they might have a drinking problem. The first DUI is cleared if they have a proper defense. However, they follow it up some time later with disorderly conduct while intoxicated. Again, robust defense helped them to keep their record clean. Finally, while drunk, they get charged with theft. While the other resolutions were pending, this new charge can throw a serious wrench in their life.
A mark on the record will hamper their job and personal life. It’s one of the highest prices for being charged with a crime. Anyone who does a background check on such an individual can see how many resolutions are pending and the crimes they have been charged with.
It’s tough to find a job or apply for housing when you have a criminal record. Companies and real estate agents are more wary than ever before. So, if they find that you have a criminal record, it might lead them to skip you and choose a competing candidate or buyer.
Everyone deserves a second chance, even when they make a mistake. An experienced Pittsburgh criminal lawyer can help you wipe clean or expunge your public record. Let’s learn how below!
Criminal Record Expungement in Pennsylvania
The Pennsylvania State Police runs the expungement program. They allow certain people to erase misdemeanors or felony convictions from their official record.
The Expungement Process
Applicants have to take many steps to initiate the process, which includes filing and submitting paperwork. They need the arrest record, which they must show at the Clerk of Courts in their county, to determine the following step.
In this step, applicants need to petition the court to get an expungement court order. Since the entire process is a little complicated, a seasoned Pittsburgh criminal lawyer by your side is a great help.
Criteria for Expungement
Once you get arrested or receive a citation, you have a criminal record in PA. Expungement isn’t available for all situations. However, it can benefit people convicted of common misdemeanors. However, certain records can be expunged if they meet particular criteria.
- If your charges were dismissed, dropped, withdrawn, or if you took an ARD program due to a DUI, expungement is possible.
- If you were charged with a misdemeanor or felony but not convicted and didn’t plead guilty, your record is eligible for expungement.
- Expungement is unlikely if you get convicted.
- If you haven’t been arrested since a summary offense conviction of 5 or more years ago, your record can be expunged.
- An underage drinking conviction can be expunged after you turn 21 and meet all the sentence conditions.
Your Pittsburgh criminal lawyer will file an expungement motion with the Department of Court Records, Criminal Division. The expungement will be granted if accepted by an order from the Court of Common Pleas.
There are many types of record-sealing and expungement programs in PA. However, the process of cleaning your criminal record is complicated. A Pittsburgh criminal lawyer can help you determine your next steps and guide you during essential procedures.
Logue Law Group can help you get the fresh start you need. We can help you clear your public record if you match the criteria for qualifications. An expungement of your criminal record frees you of your past. Contact us today at sean@seanloguelaw.com to learn more.