Do you have a misdemeanor on your record? If so, and if it's been awhile (several years or more) since your conviction, did you know that you might be eligible for expungement? Specifically, expungement refers to the process of having your criminal record sealed so that you can legally answer "no" to the question "have you ever been convicted of a crime?" An expungement can improve your life greatly, especially when it comes to your employment prospects, but there are some things you need to know before you apply for it.
Not Everybody is Eligible for Expungement
The idea of expungement is that it's designed to essentially "forgive" people who have been convicted of criminal offenses in the past but who have maintained a clean record since. Specifically, only those with misdemeanor convictions (not felonies) are eligible for expungement. You must also show that you have not been convicted of any further crimes (misdemeanors or felonies) since your original conviction. If you have, then there's a very good chance that your application for expungement will be denied.
The Process Can Be Long and Complicated
Furthermore, if you're thinking about applying for expungement, you'll definitely want to have a lawyer who knows criminal law on your side; after all, while the paperwork involved with applying for expungement is simple enough (usually just a basic form), the process of actually proving to a judge that you should be approved for expungement can be more complicated. A lawyer will be able to help you compile any necessary materials or documentation you may need to make a strong case in front of a judge.
Some Employers Can View a Sealed Record
Finally, understand that while an expungement of your criminal record will render most employers unable to view your sealed record, this doesn't apply to all employers. For example, if you will be applying for a job as a police officer or any other government position, there's a good chance that they will be able to see your past convictions regardless of your expungement. This doesn't necessarily mean that you can't apply for these jobs or won't be considered, but it's just something to be aware of.
Overall, an expungement of your record can be a great way to open up the possibilities to more job opportunities. If you have a misdemeanor on your record, be sure to consider this as an option for yourself. For more information, contact a business such as Hardy & Associates Criminal Law Firm.
Share10 June 2015
The laws governing child custody and guardianship can be confusing. As a family attorney, I have helped many clients gain legal guardianship over a foster child or a relative's child. Getting legal guardianship of a child you are caring for is important because you need to be able to make decisions about that child's education, health care and other matters. This blog will help you navigate the world of legal guardianship and show you how to take steps to get guardianship over a child whether the child's parents are cooperative or not. Legal guardianship does matter even if a child is not going to be adopted. I hope to help people find the way to get this done.
