Thursday, May 26, 2011

Obtain An Expungement Of A Felony Conviction

Expungement Of A Felony Conviction


Getting an expungement of a felony conviction is not difficult to do. However, it is important that people know the process in doing so. Lawyers charge a lot of money for a process that is actually fairly simple. In order to acquire an expungement of a felony conviction, there are a few simple steps to follow. Remember that the final decision of whether a felony conviction will be expunged will be made by a judge. Nevertheless, here's attempt an expungement of a felony conviction.


Instructions


1. Keep in mind that the process will vary by state if you are looking to get an expungement of a felony conviction. Each state has a different laws, rules and waiting periods regarding expunging criminal records.


2. Obtain the proper paperwork from your state/county of residence. Go to the website of the state/county and request a criminal records expungement form. You can usually find these forms under the "courts" section on the state/county website. You can also request this information by calling the state/county of interest.


3. Fill out the forms and mail them in. Remember that there can be a long waiting period when attempting to receive an expungement of a felony conviction, so be patient. This waiting period can last up to four months.


4. Check your mail or email because you should receive an email or letter about a specified court date. At this court hearing you will be required to provide the judge with an oral or written explanation as to why he/she should expunge your felony conviction. At the end of the hearing, the judge will either grant or deny an expungement of your felony conviction. If a judge allows an expungement of a felony conviction, your court records will be sealed. Your criminal court records will no longer be public. Keep in mind that arrest records may still be obtained, and law enforcement agencies will still be able to unseal criminal records in special circumstances. If a judge denies an expungement of a felony conviction, there may be an appeals process, but this will depend on the state.


5. Remember that only a judge has the authority to grant an expungement of a felony conviction. Even when criminal convictions are expunged, arrest records may still be obtained. You may need to consult an attorney depending on the circumstances of your case. Remember that most attorneys provide a free consultation via email or over the phone.







Tags: felony conviction, expungement felony, expungement felony conviction, Remember that, state county, criminal records