Can You Expunge a Felony?
If you have the weight of a Pennsylvania felony conviction hanging over your head, odds are you have wondered, Can you expunge a felony? The weight of a criminal record is sufficient to burden a person in any one area, from career decisions to their overall standing. The good news, however, is that under certain circumstances, there may be the possibility to seal or expunge your felony record.
As detainer lawyers in Philadelphia, we understand the process can be overwhelming, but with the right legal help, you can navigate it.
What is Felony Expungement?
Expungement is the legal mechanism for erasing a criminal record from the public record. Expunging a felony is that the conviction is erased and, in most cases, you can truthfully deny ever having been convicted of such a crime. It’s a second chance, allowing you to start over and begin anew.
Eligibility for Felony Expungement in Pennsylvania
Not every felony conviction in Pennsylvania qualifies for expungement. When it comes to really big crimes like felonies, there are rules they have to follow before you can request to clean that slate and forget about it. Make sure that you’ve waited long enough to qualify. The waiting time can vary depending on what kind of wrongdoing it is and other things, like if you’ve had trouble with the law before. It really depends on a lot of different factors, such as whether there have been more charges you’ve faced lately.
For certain crimes, especially violent crimes, expungement may not be possible. This includes offenses like murder, aggravated assault, and similar violent felonies. However, non-violent crimes, especially those where you’ve demonstrated rehabilitation, may be eligible for expungement after a certain number of years have passed.
The Expungement Process
Then you’ll need to determine whether you qualify—and that’s where an experienced attorney, such as a Philadelphia domestic violence lawyer, comes in handy. Your attorney will discuss your case with you, guide you through your choices, and assist you in determining the best course of action.
If you do qualify, then comes the tough part. You’ll have to petition the court—that means gathering proof that you’ve turned things around. Consider pay stubs, diplomas, or proof of community service. Once you file all that, the court will review your request. Some cases even require a hearing, where you’ll have to show up in person to plead your case.
The Benefits of Expunging a Felony
The benefits of having a felony expunged in Pennsylvania cannot be overstated. Perhaps the most significant advantage is the opportunity to start fresh. Expunging a felony conviction can improve your chances of securing employment, housing, and restoring your civil rights. Employers and landlords often conduct background checks, and having a clean record can make all the difference in securing a job or apartment.
Also, getting your felony record cleared will help you become professionally licensable once more, reinstate voting privileges, and wipe out the taint of having a criminal past. It is a way of taking control back in your life.
What Happens If You Don’t Qualify for Expungement?
Nowhere does the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania make getting cleansed of a felony less exciting or worthwhile. Perhaps the most significant advantage is the opportunity to start fresh. Expunging a felony conviction can improve your chances of securing employment, housing, and restoring your civil rights. Employers and landlords often conduct background checks, and having a clean record can make all the difference in securing a job or apartment.
Another big advantage of sealing your felony record is that it lets you be eligible for professional licenses again and also restores your right to vote. It also removes that bad stigma that goes along with being convicted of a criminal case. It’s a way to reclaim control over your future.
How We Can Help
As experienced defense attorneys, we are committed to fighting for your rights and helping you secure the fresh start you deserve. If you’re ready to explore your options and take control of your future, contact us today for a consultation. We will guide you every step of the way through the expungement process, ensuring the best possible outcome for your case.