A criminal record can cause roadblocks when pursuing essential life endeavors, such as looking for new housing opportunities and getting a job. Individuals can experience these lasting effects long after fulfilling their legal obligations, making it difficult to move on with life. Fortunately, there are ways to address criminal records and obtain a fresh start through sealing or expunging them.
In Pennsylvania, sealing a criminal record can limit access to but not remove it. An expungement can completely wipe it out, providing a clean slate. Still, this process may only apply to eligible records that meet specific qualifications. If you intend to expunge your record, eligibility can vary, including the following:
- Convictions for minor offenses, such as disorderly conduct or loitering, if you have not committed any offenses five years since
- Offenses with completion of special programs as a sanction, often applicable for intoxication-related violations
- Misdemeanor and felony charges if you are at least 70 years old and you have not been subject to any arrests for the past ten years
Before seeking expungement, it is helpful to determine if you are eligible based on the details of your record and your circumstances. Most violent crimes cannot qualify for this process, regardless of other requirements.
Getting legal help for expungements
There are online resources that can help you organize the paperwork and requisites you need for an expungement, but some issues can arise, complicating your situation. In these scenarios, it could be beneficial to seek legal guidance before moving the process forward.
Having valuable counsel can help determine your options, considering your unique circumstances and other information that can impact your application. These efforts may seem troublesome, but they can be necessary to help you make a fresh start.
