Making the Expungment Decision
Many people are unsure of the arrest process. They do not fully understand how the decisions they make after an arrest can have a serious impact on their future. Sadly, it is only when these decisions impact their job, education or family that they realize things should have been done differently.
For example, many people who work with their attorneys to negotiate a dismissal of their criminal charges or achieve a finding of not guilty at trial, do not realize what their criminal record will say later. If a person gets a voluntary dismissal or a finding of not guilty, the original criminal charge will always be on his or her record.
In North Carolina, you are allowed one time in your lifetime to completely erase — or expunge — your criminal record. Since you get one chance to expunge, using it wisely is important. I advise many families about when to erase a high school or college student's record. It may depend on the severity of the case. Talk to your lawyer about the decision by calling the DeCurtins Law Firm toll free at 866-421-1514.
Who Can See Your Criminal Record
When you erase your record, you erase all of it — including any photos on the sheriff’s public Web site. Certain government entities may still be able to locate your criminal record after expungment, but general record checks will appear clean. This means the background checks done by your employer or a school will usually not disclose alleged involvement in criminal activity.
The Limits on Expungment
Certain limits apply to your ability to expunge your criminal record. Time limits may affect your ability to erase multiple offenses that were committed more than 12 months apart; even if the cases were dismissed or you were found not guilty.
If you have convictions, I can help you check your criminal record so you know for sure whether or not the record can be expunged. Certain exceptions may apply to you, for instance, if you were a minor at the time of the conviction. We may be able to erase more than one case at a time.
To talk with me about erasing your criminal record, contact the DeCurtins Law Firm by calling 704-315-2595 or toll-free at 866-421-1514. Free initial consultations are available.
