For many, a bad decision or moment of weakness can result in a lifetime of consequences. The legal process of expungement allows these individuals to move past those mistakes and move forward without a criminal record hanging over their heads.
You might be entitled to expungement when you are charged with a crime and have served your sentence. A seasoned criminal attorney could review your circumstances and advise whether you qualify. Let a Tavares expungement lawyer assist you with this important process.
What is Expungement?
It is important to understand what expungement is. It is a common misconception that an expungement completely erases a person’s criminal conviction. In reality, an expungement makes the record of certain criminal cases unavailable to the public.
Practically speaking, expungement allows a person with a criminal record to answer truthfully that they do not have a conviction on their record. Law enforcement and other government entities still have access to the details of the criminal case.
Even though expungement does not eliminate a criminal conviction, it is still a best-case scenario for many who have been convicted of a crime. A lawyer in Tavares could provide answers on how getting a record expunged could be helpful.
Why Should Someone Pursue Expungement
Multiple benefits come with having a criminal record expunged. The most common reason to seek expungement is based on the impact a criminal record can have on employment. Many people find it difficult to secure employment with a conviction. In some cases, a felony arrest might prevent a person from qualifying for a job or the professional license needed to fill that position.
There are other situations where expungement can be beneficial. These include the social benefits of not having a criminal record and even a potential improvement in a person’s credit score. No matter the reason, an attorney in Tavares could help pursue expungement.
Who Qualifies for Expungement?
Not everyone with a criminal record can get it expunged. State law limits eligibility for expungement to individuals not convicted of a crime. A person may only seek expungement when they have never been convicted of a criminal act under state law.
Moreover, expungement is only available in cases where a conviction was not obtained. This limits expungements to records of arrests where the state “nolle prossed” the case or declined to file charges. Alternatively, it is possible to expunge the records in a criminal case following a dismissal or acquittal.
It is also important to note that expungement is unavailable more than once. One of the important requirements in these cases is that the applicant has never had a criminal offense expunged before. While the circumstances of getting a criminal record expunged may seem limited, that does not mean pursuing this option isn’t worth it. For many, expungement is a life-changing benefit that impacts them for years. A knowledgeable attorney in Tavares could help get a criminal record sealed for someone who faced charges in the past.
Contact an Expungement Attorney in Tavares As Soon As Possible
When you want your criminal record expunged, it is vital that you first determine if you qualify. The best way to do that is by seeking out legal counsel who understands the expungement process.
Do not delay in reviewing your case with an attorney. Call a Tavares expungement lawyer today.
