Expungement
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Manassas Expungement Lawyer
Experienced Expungement Attorneys in Prince William County, Virginia
At Manassas Law Group, our Prince William County expungement attorneys are happy to help clients through the expungement process in Virginia, advocating for a clear record and enabling them to move forward without the burden of past criminal charges.
Whether you’re seeking to expunge a dismissal, acquittal, or other non-conviction records, the Manassas Law Group is ready to help you restore your good name and secure a brighter future. Simply call (703) 361-8246 or reach out online to schedule a free consultation with a Manassas expungement attorney today.
What is Expungement?
Expungement is a legal process that allows individuals to erase or seal records of a prior arrest, charge, or conviction from public view. This procedure effectively removes the legal trace of an individual’s criminal record, making it as if the event never occurred in the eyes of the law.
Expungement can be crucial for improving an individual’s opportunities in life, as it can prevent the past from influencing background checks conducted by potential employers, landlords, or educational institutions. However, eligibility for expungement varies widely based on jurisdiction, the nature of the criminal offense, and the time elapsed since the incident.
Virginia Code § 19.2-392.2
Virginia Code § 19.2-392.2 outlines the requirements for the expungement of police and court records under specific conditions in the Commonwealth of Virginia. According to this statute, individuals may qualify to have their arrest record expunged if their case resulted in a dismissal, acquittal, or received an absolute pardon for the commission of a crime they did not commit.
Unlike many other states that allow for the expungement (or “sealing”) of certain criminal convictions, Virginia only allows for relief of those charged but not convicted. The process involves petitioning the court, and the outcome hinges on proving that the continued existence and possible dissemination of the records may cause “manifest injustice” to the petitioner.
If your criminal charges qualify for an expungement petition, contact a Manassas expungement lawyer at MLG to discuss your case.
Benefits of Expungement
Expungement of a criminal record can offer numerous benefits, enhancing an individual’s quality of life and opening doors that were once closed due to prior convictions. One of the primary advantages is improved employment opportunities, as a clean record can make a candidate more attractive to potential employers, who often conduct criminal background checks.
Expungement also provides access to better housing opportunities and educational programs, which may otherwise be restricted for those with arrest records. It can also enable eligibility for professional licenses and certifications for certain careers.
An expungement can also provide emotional and psychological relief, removing the stigma and stress associated with a criminal record, allowing individuals to fully move forward with their lives without the shadow of past mistakes.
Virginia Expungement Eligibility Laws
Understanding Virginia’s expungement eligibility laws can be challenging, as these regulations determine who can have their criminal records cleared or sealed. In Virginia, eligibility largely depends on the case outcome, such as acquittal, dismissal, or receipt of an absolute pardon, and the nature of the criminal offense. Certain convictions, particularly those committed by juveniles, may also be eligible for expungement under specific conditions.
It’s important for those seeking an expungement in Virginia to fully understand these legal guidelines as they stipulate the criteria under which individuals can petition the court to expunge their criminal history.
What Crimes Can Be Expunged in Virginia?
In Virginia, the crimes eligible for expungement include cases where the person was acquitted, the charges were dismissed, or a nolle prosequi (a decision by the prosecutor not to pursue the case) was entered.
Individuals who were wrongfully convicted and subsequently received absolute pardons are also eligible for expungement. However, it’s important to note that convictions generally cannot be expunged in Virginia, with very few exceptions such as this.
What Crimes Cannot Be Expunged in Virginia?
In Virginia, expungement laws regarding crimes that cannot be expunged are quite restrictive. Most notably, any crime for which a person has been convicted remains on their criminal record permanently and cannot be expunged, except in the rare case of a wrongful conviction followed by an absolute pardon. This includes both felony and misdemeanor convictions.
How To File an Expungement Petition in Virginia
Filing an expungement petition in Virginia involves a few key steps:
- Verify Eligibility: Ensure your case qualifies for expungement, typically applicable to dismissals, acquittals, or absolute pardons.
- Obtain Court Records: Get a copy of the case’s final disposition from the court clerk where your case was handled.
- Fingerprinting: Your fingerprints will be submitted to the Central Criminal Records Exchange (CCRE).
- Prepare and File the Petition: Complete and file the Petition for Expungement form at the circuit court where the charge was filed, along with your fingerprints and the disposition copy. Pay the required filing fee.
- Notify the Commonwealth: Serve a copy of the petition to the local Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Attend a Court Hearing: Present your case at the scheduled hearing, where the judge will decide on your expungement.
- Finalization: If the judge grants the expungement, an order will be issued, and your police records will be cleared following this order.
When pursuing an expungement, working with an experienced expungement lawyer is recommended to ensure all legal requirements are met. Your attorney will also increase your chances of securing a successful outcome. To meet with an expungement lawyer from the Manassas Law Group, call (703) 361-8246 to schedule a free consultation.
The Expungement Process in Prince William County
The expungement process in Prince William County, Virginia, is a structured legal procedure to clear eligible criminal records. To initiate the process, one must first determine their eligibility, usually based on the nature of the dismissal or acquittal of charges.
The next steps include obtaining necessary court documents and fingerprints, preparing and filing a detailed Petition for Expungement at the Prince William County Circuit Court, and paying any applicable fees. The petition must also be served to the Commonwealth’s Attorney. A court hearing is then scheduled, where the case is presented before a judge who decides on whether or not to grant the expungement.
Do I Need a Criminal Defense Attorney for Expungement?
While it is technically possible to pursue expungement on your own, hiring a criminal defense attorney can significantly enhance your chances of success. A Manassas criminal defense attorney can help guide you through the process, ensuring all legal requirements and deadlines are followed. They can also effectively handle any legal challenges, such as objections from the prosecution.
Furthermore, an expungement attorney can provide valuable advice on eligibility, prepare necessary documentation, and represent you at the expungement hearing. Given the potentially life-changing benefits of expungement, the assistance of a skilled criminal defense attorney like those at MLG can be a worthwhile investment.
Why Choose Manassas Law Group for Your Expungement
When it comes to expungements in Prince William County, VA, choosing the right legal representation can make all the difference. The criminal defense lawyers at Manassas Law Group have extensive experience handling these types of cases, ensuring that you understand the eligibility requirements and the best path forward for your expungement case.
At Manassas Law Group, we are fully committed to providing personalized legal advice and support for your unique circumstances, guiding you through the complex expungement process from start to finish. Our deep knowledge of Virginia law and criminal court procedures gives us a clear advantage when seeking to clear your record. Trust the Prince William County criminal lawyers at Manassas Law Group to help you regain a clean slate.
Call an Experienced Manassas Expungement Attorney at MLG For a Free Consultation Today
Don’t let your past hold you back any longer. Contact Manassas Law Group today to schedule a free consultation with one of our experienced expungement attorneys. We are ready to listen to your story, evaluate your case, and discuss how we can assist you in clearing your record and securing a brighter future.
Take the first step towards a new beginning by calling the Manassas Law Group at (703) 361-8246 or by completing our online intake form today!
Contact Us
We offer a free case evaluation for new clients seeking criminal defense help. Call our Prince William County office today. Call 703-361-8246
