What Crimes can be Expunged?

There are many people who have been convicted of a crime in the past who feel they may never lead a normal life again. Fortunately, some people are eligible for expungement. Expungement removes a conviction from an individual’s criminal record, making it unavailable through state and federal repositories. However, not every crime is eligible for expungement. In New Jersey, many crimes can be expunged. However, there are some serious felonies that are not eligible for expungement, including kidnapping and human trafficking. Some crimes that can be expunged include:

• Indictable offenses
• Disorderly conduct
• Municipal ordinance violations
• Minor drug offenses

It is important to note that being charged with a crime without a conviction may show on public record, but this can also be expunged, and it must be done at the same time of the discharge. However, there are some exceptions, such as a six-month period lapse if the charge was dismissed due to plea bargaining. Additionally, expungement laws may change. It is in your best interest to seek the help of a lawyer before going through the expungement process.

When can I Begin the Expungement Process?

Specific convictions have a required period that must pass since completion of the person’s sentence. This refers to the latest completion of one’s sentence, such as completion of probation, paying off court fees, or release from prison. There may not be any pending charges, as well as any other convictions. Generally, five years must pass for most convictions to be eligible for expungement. Disorderly conduct convictions may be eligible after three years, and some other convictions may be eligible after four years. Additionally, a person may qualify for an early pathway expungement, which means that a portion or all of a person’s record can be expunged in a shorter period of time. However, the person must prove to the court that certain conditions have been met. If 10 years has passed from the completion of a sentence, one may be eligible for a clean slate expungement, but a petition must still be filed. Also, one may have the ability to have multiple convictions expunged under the clean slate law. To file for expungement, one can follow instructions on the state’s official website. It is important to note that it is not guaranteed that a conviction can be expunged. Not only do the requirements have to be met, but the court must also be convinced that the person is truly rehabilitated from the crime.

South Jersey Expungement Lawyers at The Law Offices of Christopher St. John can Help You Clear Your Past Convictions

Getting a previous conviction expunged from your record is one of the best ways to build a better future for yourself. Speak with one of our South Jersey expungement lawyers at The Law Offices of Christopher St. John if you need help with the expungement process. Call us at 856-296-3481 or complete our online form to schedule an initial consultation. Located in Haddonfield, New Jersey, we proudly serve clients throughout South Jersey, including Burlington County, Camden County, Gloucester County, and Salem County.