Expungement

Expungement is the term used to describe the action of sealing or destroying legal records. While each state has its own definition of expungement, based on its individual laws and regulations, it generally means to remove an individual’s criminal record from public view so it does not appear on criminal background checks.

A Criminal Record Can Affect Your Future

It is important to seek professional help to determine whether or not you qualify for an expungement. Once the records are sealed, you do not have to report that you were accused, arrested or charged with a crime. In many cases, having your record expunged will help you secure career, education and social opportunities you may have otherwise been denied.

Even if your arrest was dismissed or rejected, or if you were never convicted, you still have a criminal record. Each year, more and more employers are running background checks on potential employees before hiring them. Not only can a criminal record affect your future career opportunities, in some states, it can also prevent you from obtaining credit, renting or buying an apartment or home, voting, running for political positions or obtaining certain licenses such as real estate or nursing/medical.

Who Qualifies for Expungement?

Each state has its own expungement laws; however, there is often a list of qualifications that must be met in order for expungement to be considered. Following is a list of common factors that may determine whether or not you qualify:

• A certain period of time must have passed since the arrest
• All juvenile arrests, if any, have been expunged
• The proceedings were dismissed
• The individual was released without charges
• Previous criminal charges on your record

How Can a Criminal Attorney Help Get Your Record Expunged?

An experienced Massachusetts criminal law attorney is familiar with the laws governing the expungement process in your state. He/she will evaluate your case to see if you qualify and will assist you in the process. You should contact a skilled attorney immediately, because the process of expunging your record will not happen over night; in most cases it will take 5-7 months.

If you have been arrested and would like to see if you qualify for expungement, contact us today for a complete evaluation of your case.

175 Central Street
Suite 215
Lowell, MA 01852

Tel: 800-483-9219