The first time my son got into some legal trouble, I didn't hire an attorney. I figured that he would just get a slap on the wrist and that he should accept his punishment, and that's what happened. The second time he got into trouble, I had to hire an attorney. I knew that since he had a record, the judge would not be so lenient about his punishment and he could suffer some serious consequences that could haunt him for his entire life. If you have a troubled child, my blog could help you understand the value of hiring an attorney for him or her.
the value of hiring an attorney for your troubled child
Obstacles You Might Encounter When Expunging Your Records
Owen Bertrand
When you meet the requirements for having your criminal record expunged, you might believe that doing this will be a simple process. However, there are many obstacles you might encounter when trying to expunge your criminal record. To avoid these obstacles, you will want to speak to a criminal record expungement attorney for help.
Make Sure That You're Able to Expunge Your Records
Even if you believe you meet the requirements for expungement, make sure to speak with a criminal expungement attorney. For example, you are not able to expunge a federal crime. You might not be able to expunge a record if you committed a certain type of crime such as a DUI.
Even if you are able to expunge your records, this will only remove these records from databases. It will be impossible to search for your criminal records through a background check, but the expungement will not remove any other records of your crime, such as news articles that have been written about you. Some defendants are distressed when their names still appear when searched on news websites.
The Process is Complicated and Difficult
It is easy to make a mistake when you are not familiar with the expungement process. The rules for expungement can vary widely across jurisdictions and you will need help from an attorney who comes from your jurisdiction.
You will not want to spend a lot of time trying to expunge your records when you are only qualified for having your records sealed. You also might not have the time to complete and submit all the paperwork that is necessary to have your records expunged.
Objections to Your Expungement
Others might object to your efforts to expunge your records. Every agency associated with your case will receive a copy of your petition to expunge and will have an opportunity to object. Then, the judge will ultimately decide whether your records should be expunged.
Your Day in Court
You will usually have to go to court to fight for your right to have your records expunged. An expungement attorney will assist you in making the best possible case for why your records should be expunged and will argue against any agencies that attempt to make a case against you.
Even if you are not able to have your records expunged initially, you have the right to appeal. However, the process becomes more complicated and you are better off having your record expunged the first time.
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