Colonial Heights Expungement Lawyer
If you have been convicted of a crime, you may want to seek an expungement. To have a record expunged means that the person’s record is essentially wiped clean of any wrongdoing or court appearances. If an expungement has been granted, the fact the person was ever in court for that crime will be removed from their record and will not show up in any search. A Colonial Heights expungement lawyer could review your situation and see if you are eligible for an expungement. If you are eligible, a seasoned criminal defense attorney could advocate on your behalf throughout the legal process.
Defining Expungement
As defined by Virginia law, an expungement is when an individual has their criminal history, including all elements of the crime cleared from their record. This covers arrests, court appearances, and anything else related to the incident. This way, if the individual wants to apply for a job and the company does a background check, then the case will not show up in their criminal history.
The only way a convicted person may have their record expunged is if the case is either dismissed through trial or the commonwealth withdraws the charge. When a person’s record is expunged, it is as if it never happened. A Colonial Heights expungement lawyer may have the experience and knowledge necessary to help get someone’s record expunged.
Record-Sealings and Pardons
Record-sealing is commonly done by the court. When there is a record-sealing, the judge makes it where the public cannot view the records of what occurred in court. However, a record-sealing does not completely disappear and may be reviewed under limited circumstances. A pardoned is when a governor of the state, in which someone resides, forgives the individual for what they have done and is usually freed from jail.
Expungement for Minor Offenses
No matter how minor the offense, the only way to get a record expunged is through a motion at trial or the prosecution drops the charge. Many offenses will not be enough to keep them from getting a job, therefore, it may not be worth an individual’s effort to try to get the record expunged. For example, a misdemeanor for reckless driving will unlikely interfere with someone’s career plans.
However, if the person wants to work for the government, the slightest blemish on their record could harm their ability to get the job. A person wanting to get a minor offense expungement will depend on their career goals and how they value their record.
How a Colonial Heights Expungement Attorney Could Help
It is always important to obtain legal counsel anytime there is a court procedure. A Colonial Heights expungement lawyer should know the ins and outs of the court and will understand the proper procedures to take when attempting to achieve a person’s goals. If you are seeking an expungement, you may want to reach out to an accomplished defense attorney today. A lawyer could stand by your side and fight for you. Call today to schedule a consultation.