Clear Your Clock - It's Time for a Fresh Start with an Expungement
If you’ve been arrested or charged with a crime in Pennsylvania, you may be wondering what your options are for clearing your record. Fortunately, the Law Office of E. William Hevenor is here to help.
As an experienced criminal defense attorney serving Philadelphia and surrounding counties, Mr. Hevenor has successfully helped countless clients obtain expungements and seal their criminal records. With his expertise and guidance, you can put the past behind you and move forward with a clean slate.
What is an Expungement?
An expungement is the legal process of sealing or erasing a criminal record. This means that all records related to your arrest, charges, and conviction will be removed from public view. Once an expungement is granted, you will no longer have to disclose your criminal history on job applications, housing applications, or other forms.
Eligibility for Expungement in Pennsylvania
Not all criminal offenses are eligible for expungement in Pennsylvania. Generally, if you were convicted of a summary offense or a misdemeanor of the second or third degree and have completed all terms of your sentence (including any fines and probation), you may be eligible for an expungement. If you were arrested but not convicted, or if your charges were dismissed or withdrawn, you may also be eligible for an expungement. However, certain offenses such as DUI and sexual offenses are not eligible for expungement in Pennsylvania.
To get a criminal record expunged in Pennsylvania, the following requirements must be met.
Completion of the Waiting Period: Typically, there is a waiting period after the final disposition of the case before you can pursue expungement. The length of this waiting period depends on the type of offense and can range from immediate eligibility to several years.
Eligible Offenses: Only certain types of offenses are eligible for expungement in Pennsylvania. Generally, summary offenses, non-convictions (such as dismissals or acquittals), and certain low-level misdemeanors may be eligible for expungement. Felonies and more serious offenses are generally not eligible unless exceptional circumstances apply.
Successful Completion of Sentence: You must have completed all aspects of your sentence, including any probation, fines, or restitution orders associated with the offense. This demonstrates that you have fulfilled your obligations and deserve to have your record expunged.
Limited Prior Convictions: The number and nature of prior convictions on your record may impact your eligibility for expungement. Some offenses have specific restrictions on the number and types of prior convictions that can be expunged.
Compliance with Waiting Periods: If you have multiple eligible offenses, you must comply with the waiting period for each offense independently. This means that you may need to wait longer for expungement eligibility if you have multiple offenses on your record.
Petition and Filing: To pursue expungement, you need to file a petition with the court that handled your case. The petition should include specific details about the offense, the disposition, and the reasons for seeking expungement. Proper filing and adherence to procedural requirements are essential for a successful expungement petition.
Each case is unique based on the charges you seek to expunge, your criminal history, and any prior criminal record expungement. Conviction records are an important part of the criminal court system, however, Pennsylvania law does balance the need to maintain a criminal record and past criminal charges with the impact they have on a person’s life, potential employers, criminal background check, application for a professional license, and how an individual is succeeding in society.
What Does An Expungement Lawyer Do?
Philadelphia expungement lawyers play a vital role in helping individuals navigate the complex process of expunging their criminal records.
Here’s what an expungement attorney can do for you:
Evaluate Eligibility: An expungement lawyer will thoroughly assess your case to determine if you meet the eligibility criteria for expungement under Pennsylvania law. They will review your criminal record, the nature of the criminal offense, and any relevant statutes to determine if you qualify for expungement.
Provide Legal Advice: Your expungement lawyer will provide you with expert legal advice and guidance throughout the process. They will explain the potential benefits, risks, and implications of pursuing expungement, ensuring that you make informed decisions about your case.
Prepare and File Expungement Petitions: An expungement lawyer will draft and file the necessary legal documents and petitions required for expungement. They will ensure that all the required information is accurately and effectively presented to the appropriate court or agency.
Represent You in Court: If a hearing is necessary for your expungement case, your lawyer will represent you in court. They will present your case, argue for the expungement of your criminal records, and address any potential challenges or objections raised by the prosecution or the court.
Navigate the Legal Process: The expungement process involves navigating various legal procedures and timelines. Your lawyer will guide you through each step, ensuring that all required documentation is submitted within the specified deadlines and that all procedural requirements are met.
Advocate for Your Rights: Your expungement lawyer will be your advocate throughout the process. They will protect your rights, argue on your behalf, and use their legal expertise to maximize your chances of achieving a successful expungement outcome.
Handle Complex Situations: In some cases, the expungement process can become more complex, such as when dealing with multiple convictions, charges from different jurisdictions, or when other legal issues are involved. An expungement lawyer is equipped to handle these complexities and navigate the legal landscape on your behalf.
Monitor the Expungement Process: Your lawyer will keep you informed about the progress of your expungement case, notify you of any updates or developments, and address any concerns or questions you may have along the way.
By hiring a Pennsylvania expungement attorney, you can benefit from their knowledge of the criminal justice system, their experience in handling expungement cases, and their ability to effectively advocate for your rights. They will work tirelessly to help you obtain a clean criminal record, providing you with a fresh start and improved opportunities for your future.
Ready to Clear Your Record? Contact the Law Office of E. William Hevenor Today!
Obtaining an expungement can be a complicated and time-consuming process. One misstep can result in your petition being denied, meaning that your record will remain public. That’s why it’s essential to have an experienced expungement attorney on your side.
As a seasoned criminal defense attorney, Mr. Hevenor has the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the complex legal system and successfully obtain an expungement for his clients. He will work diligently to gather the necessary documents and evidence, draft a strong petition, and represent you in court if needed.
Don’t let a criminal record hold you back from reaching your full potential. Contact the Law Office of E. William Hevenor today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about how an expungement can help you move forward with a clean slate.
