The legal consequences of committing a crime extend far beyond jail time and fines. A criminal record will follow you around indefinitely, placing you at a disadvantage in the job market and impacting your ability to earn a living. Unfortunately, many people are unaware that a criminal offense can be expunged from their record through the expungement process. If you have been arrested, charged, or convicted of a crime, speak to a professional.  The criminal defense attorneys at Mette Attorneys at Law in Harrisburg, PA, can discuss your eligibility for expungement as well as alternative options.

What Crimes are Eligible for Expungement?

When a crime is expunged, it is removed from your record, preventing the general public from viewing it. Bear in mind that each state maintains its own laws regarding which offenses can be expunged. Pennsylvania law permits expungement in the following circumstances:

• For summary offense convictions, if you have been crime-free for at least five years
• You are at least 21 years of age and have petitioned the court of common pleas for an expungement regarding a conviction for the possession or transportation of alcohol, and have completed your sentence
• You are at least 70 years of age and have been crime-free for at least 10 years following your release
• The Governor issued you an unconditional pardon
• If an individual has been deceased for three years

For all other convictions that do not meet the criteria for expungement, you must first receive a pardon to be eligible. Any charges that were dismissed, withdrawn, or resulted in a “non-guilty” conviction can be entirely expunged. Also, charges that resulted in the successful completion of a diversionary program qualify for expungement. You should consult with an expungement lawyer who can assess your record to determine which offenses may be eligible for expungement.

Expungement Process

Suppose you are interested in having your criminal record expunged. In that case, our lawyers can apply on your behalf by mailing Form SP 4-170 (Request for Access and Review Form) to the Pennsylvania State Police. Once a judge signs the expungement order and the state police receive it, your record will be expunged. However, the expungement will only apply to your criminal record in Pennsylvania, not in other states or for federal crimes.

Benefits of Hiring Our Expungement Attorneys

The expungement process requires that specific steps be followed meticulously. Failure to follow these steps will result in your expungement being denied. The Harrisburg expungement lawyers at Mette Attorneys at Law understand that having an offense removed from your record can open up possibilities. Our team of legal professionals will review any applicable charges or convictions and determine if you qualify for expungement. If so, we will prepare and file the necessary paperwork. We are more than ready to handle any challenges that may arise.

Expungement Lawyers Offering the Advocacy You Need

If you are ready to have a new lease on life, clearing your criminal record can play a significant role in that. The Harrisburg expungement attorneys at Mette Attorneys at Law have assisted hundreds of individuals who were ready to wipe the slate clean and start fresh. Contact us online or call (717) 232-5000.