Criminal Record Expungement

If you are reading this you most likely are looking to get either your or a loved ones criminal record expunged through record sealing or expungement. This can be a very important and vital step in improving someone’s life and moving on from the past. This web page and web site has one purpose, to help you make the best decisions regarding expungement.

When you consider expunging your criminal record be sure to keep in mind a few things. First of all you must be sure that you are eligible. If you are eligible then consider hiring an attorney who specializes in record expungement.

What is expungement?

Expungement is a legal term that has a different meaning in almost each state. In general, expungement is the destruction or removal from view of all or part of a criminal record. In some states it is called record sealing, setting-aside, vacating, dismissing or clearing. So, make sure that if someone says their state does not offer expungement, that you look to see if what you want, or a close alternative, is not offered and called something else.

Are you eligible?

Each state has different requirements for expungement. Most states understand that people make mistakes and provide qualified people with legal channels to get it their records expunged. Call your local courts or take a free eligibility test on RecordGone.com to find out if you qualify. Do not rely on the advise of friends, court clerks or anyone who is not authorized to practice law. There are too many well meaning people who know only enough about expungement to be dangerous, not helpful.

Choosing an expungement attorney

Again, make sure you are dealing with a real lawyer! If they cannot provide you with their bar number they are probably just form fillers (scam). You will also want to make sure they have a good success rate and read any reviews available online. Some good questions to ask: Are they BBB accredited? Do they offer a guarantee? How long have they been in business? What is their success rate on expungement cases like yours? If you do your research you should find a reputable law firm that specializes in expungement & record removal.

After your record is expunged

Once you receive your expungement you will want to get the private criminal record databases to remove you from their databases. Most states require private databases to promptly remove records that have been ordered expunged. There are private law firms, such as RecordGone.com, that offer the service of updating private criminal databases and background check companies for you.

Expungement Facts:

Definition: The act of removing something, in most cases a criminal record

Synonyms: Record clearing, sealing, vacating, setting-aside, dismissing

Common misspellings: Expungment

If you have questions about expungement please ask them in the forums or contact one of our recommended attorneys.