How to Know if You're Eligible for Expungement

Having a criminal record can be quite inconveniencing with its limitations, restrictions and stigma. Sometimes it can be the only thing stopping you from holding a particular position in terms of your job or even living in some areas. The worst part is that a criminal conviction can damage your reputation since it stays in your record even long after you have fulfilled your sentencing and became a law-abiding citizen. However, just because you have a criminal conviction doesn't mean those past actions should dictate the rest of your life. It's possible to move on from all of it, but it takes time.

Did you know there are various steps you can take to get rid of individual pieces of information from your criminal record? Through expungement, you can clean your record and get the job qualification and peace of mind you desperately want. Of course, getting your criminal history deleted is not as straightforward as it may seem. It will help to understand if you're eligible for expungement before getting confident and ending up disappointed. So how do you know if you got eligibility? Take a look; 

If you were arrested but not sentenced to community supervision or convicted

Most people get arrested, but it doesn't materialize to conviction or community supervision. Regardless, it becomes part of the criminal record. In such a case, you can file for expungement to clear your history. 

Class C misdemeanour

If you have a Class C misdemeanour, you need to complete the deferred adjudication first, and then you will be able to get your record expunged.

If you were arrested or convicted for drug crimes or juvenile offences

In most states, arrests made because of drug crimes or juvenile offences are easy to get erased. For instance, when arrested for drug offences, you are eligible for diversion programs. Upon satisfactory completion of a particular program, your criminal records can be expunged, and you can live with a clear conscience.

On the other hand, if you were convicted or arrested as a juvenile offender, you are eligible to get expunged. Once you reach eighteen years and have stayed law-abiding, you can proceed with the criminal record expunging.

Successful completion of probation 

If you were convicted of a crime, then completed your probation successfully, you are eligible for expungement, but it would help check with your state laws. Keep in mind that certain offences such as DUIs and various felonies cannot be expunged. Get to know the kind of crime you committed first before thinking of expungement.

If you are interested in cleaning your record, there's a high possibility you have too many questions. It would help to consult with an attorney and get the best advice on the various options you have at your disposal. A lawyer will also tell you if you are eligible to start the expungement process to avoid putting your hopes too high and end up getting disappointed. Ensure you get to know what expungement does not do and proceed accordingly.