Purpose of the Document:
Petition for Expungement / Sealing Records allows individuals with eligible criminal records to request the court to either remove (expunge) or restrict public access (seal) to those records. This legal remedy is crucial for giving people a second chance by reducing barriers to employment, housing, and education.
Petition for Expungement / Sealing Records is especially useful for non-violent offenses, cases dismissed, or where a conviction has been overturned. By filing this petition, a petitioner can protect their future and restore opportunities that may otherwise be blocked due to a criminal record.
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What is Expungement?
Expungement is the legal process of erasing or sealing criminal records to give individuals a fresh start.
Who is Eligible?
Eligibility varies by state and case type, but often includes first-time or non-violent offenders.
How Long Does It Take?
The expungement process can take a few months depending on the court’s workload and documentation.
Why Hire a Lawyer?
A lawyer can help ensure proper filings, meet deadlines, and maximize the chance of a successful petition.
Expungement erases the record, while sealing restricts public access but keeps it visible to certain agencies.
No, serious crimes like violent felonies or sexual offenses are usually not eligible.
Not always, but legal guidance increases the chance of approval and avoids errors in filing.
Court filing fees vary by state, typically ranging from $100 to $400.