Covid-19 To-Do List: Clear Your Criminal Record
Covid-19 has disrupted lives everywhere – for most of us, that means we’re working remotely and our kids are home from school. While browsing through Netflix and snacking helped you get through the first few days, you’re probably starting to get a little bored and stir-crazy at home.
If you’re looking for something to put on your to-do list, then consider adding clearing your criminal record to it. It’s the perfect time to apply for an expungement in New Jersey, and most of the process can be streamlined during this pandemic. Get all the details below.
Can I Erase my Criminal Record?
Clearing your criminal record sounds like a dream come true for most, but many don’t realize they’re even eligible to do so. While violent crimes and traffic-related offenses can’t get expunged, many other crimes are eligible. Here’s an overview of the types of records you can get expunged and how long you’ll need to wait to become eligible:
- A crime that you were not convicted of (dismissed, not guilty or acquittal) – NO waiting period
- Juvenile record – 5 years
- Drug convictions (21 years old or younger) – 1 year
- Misdemeanor conviction – 5 years
- Felony convictions – 6 years (here’s everything you need to know about felony charges in NJ)
After you’ve completed your waiting period and served out your sentence, you’re immediately eligible to apply for an expungement.
How to Clear Your Criminal Record While Quarantined in New Jersey
Have you discovered that you’re eligible to have a crime removed from your record? If so, then now is the perfect time to get started on clearing your record. While everyone is telecommuting and working-from-home, the courts are much more likely to immediately grant expungement requests when the person is eligible. Here’s what you need to do:
- Hire an attorney
- Ask your attorney to request your criminal record
- Your lawyer will have you sign an expungement petition
- The petition is sent to the court
- You’ll either get immediately approved for expungement or have a court date scheduled
- If approved, your attorney will send the expungement order to the appropriate parties
- Your record will get erased
Once you’ve gone through the expungement process, you’re legally allowed to say you’ve never been convicted of a crime. You don’t have to report it to potential employers, and it won’t show up on background checks anymore.
Contact an Experienced Cherry Hill Criminal Defense Lawyer About Your Expungement in Cherry Hill
Were you arrested or charged with a felony in New Jersey? An expungement can be the first step to a fresh start. That is why you need to speak with an experienced attorney to help you get started. Gelman Law, LLC has successfully obtained expungements for clients in Burlington, Camden, Gloucester, and Mercer Counties, and throughout New Jersey. Call 856-861-4236 or fill out the online contact form to schedule a consultation with a member of our legal team. We have an office conveniently located at 1940 Rt. 70 East, Suite 4, Cherry Hill, New Jersey 08003.
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.
