Being convicted of a crime means having to face the sentence the court sets, but the effects of the conviction often extend far beyond that. People also have to deal with the collateral consequences of their sentence. In some cases, it’s possible to do away with the full weight of such challenges, after a period of time, if a particular conviction qualifies for an expungement.
An expungement in Pennsylvania doesn’t fully do away with the record of a conviction. Their conviction will still remain part of the personal’s official criminal record, but it won’t be part of any public background checks.
Why might an expungement matter?
Having a criminal record can affect various aspects of a person’s life. This includes anything that requires a background check, such as jobs, education, loans, housing and volunteer positions. Expungement can make it easier to navigate application processes that involve such checks, which can be important for financial stability and for long-term reentry.
When a person who was involved in the criminal justice system is able to find meaningful employment and stable housing, they are less likely to reoffend. They may also benefit from better community support as they try to move forward after their conviction.
Expungements have significant requirements, such as careful documentation and proof that sentencing requirements were completed. Any missteps can lead to an expungement petition being denied. Because of this, it’s best to work with a legal professional who’s familiar with the expungement process so they can assist with a petition.
