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Keeping a Clean Rap Sheet: 5 Things to Know About Expunging Criminal Charges

When you’re trying to move forward in your life after catching some bad breaks in the legal system, getting your record expunged is one of the most ideal steps you can take. 

An expungement for your criminal charges means having the records sealed or erased. This is an excellent step in helping you rebuild your life and your reputation. 

Consider these tips so that you can learn more about having your criminal charges expunged. 

1. Learn What Expunging Criminal Charges Involves

By law, many states allow people convicted of crimes to go back and have the case information sealed. It’s important to know that each state has different laws, so the process will depend on where you live and where the charges are filed. 

In addition to filing a claim to have your conviction expunged, it will generally require a few hearings. Once you have your charges expunged, you’ll be able to accurately answer that you have no convictions on your record once you go up for job interviews or fill out other paperwork. 

2. Touch Base With a Lawyer That Can Guide You

A quality lawyer can help you to learn more about getting your charges expunged also. 

When you need legal assistance, it starts by that specialize in expungements. Make sure that you get plenty of recommendations, and also learn the cost of getting an expungement. 

Getting an expungement can cost you between $400 on the low end and more than $4,000 on the high end. 

3. Seek a Certificate of Actual Innocence 

While there are lots of different types of expungements, a certificate of actual innocence is one of the more popular options. It essentially states that the conviction shouldn’t have occurred, and is a declaration of innocence. 

You don’t necessarily need one of these certificates to have a case expunged, but you should absolutely shoot for this first and foremost. 

4. Figure Out Your Eligibility 

Be sure that you look into your eligibility to make sure you can get your criminal charges expunged. This is both a matter of knowing the law, and understanding the nature of your charges. 

When you’re dealing with convictions related to drugs, or convictions as a minor, it’s easier to get your record sealed. Once you go through the process, make sure that you get confirmation and also check back frequently.

Run your name through a few background check resources so that you’re positive that everything was completed smoothly. 

Figure Out How to Get Your Charges Expunged 

When you’re trying to get your criminal charges expunged, these tips will help you out exponentially. 

This can be a necessary step after getting hit with a conviction. It will assist you in moving past these issues and getting your personal and professional life back on track. 

Taking heed to these tips will allow you to make the most out of your legal troubles so that you can have a second chance. 

Check out our directory to and to figure out how you can get your record expunged.