Metairie Expungements Lawyer
People make mistakes and sometimes, they result in a criminal prosecution. In Metairie, as throughout the rest of Louisiana, innocent people are also convicted of crimes. In either case, a criminal record can remain with you for your entire life, preventing you from obtaining employment, housing, and even academic opportunities. If you have been arrested or convicted of a crime, you do have options that can protect you from these negative impacts. Below, our Metairie expungements lawyer explains how you can take back your future.
What is an Expungement?
Expungements are civil actions that seek to have a criminal record sealed. Once a record is sealed, it is no longer available to state or federal authorities. After a state court has granted an expungement, all state agencies are ordered to remove their records. It is important to note the record is not destroyed, and the individual is not pardoned of their crime. However, the dismissal, acquittal, or conviction is erased. In the majority of cases, once a person has obtained an expungement, they can deny being convicted or arrested for a crime.
Expunging a Misdemeanor Offense
Many misdemeanor offenses are eligible for expungement. To successfully obtain one, you must wait until after the prosecution is dismissed or five years until the prosecution is set aside or since you have successfully completed your sentence. Certain misdemeanor offenses are not eligible for expungement. These include many violent crimes, such as domestic abuse battery offenses, and sex crimes.
Expunging a Felony Offense
Although they are the most serious crimes a person could commit, many felony offenses are still eligible for expungement. You can pursue an expungement for a felony offense as soon as the conviction has been set aside, or the prosecution has been dismissed. If you were convicted, have successfully completed your sentence, and have not had any other felony charges or convictions, you can request an expungement from the court.
As with misdemeanor offenses, there are certain felony crimes that are not eligible for expungement. These include crimes of violence, sex crimes, and convictions for the manufacturing or distribution of any controlled substance or drug.
How Long Does it Take to Obtain an Expungement?
The time it takes to obtain an expungement depends on many factors. The local government agencies should respond to the application within 60 days. It will take another 60 days for the State Police to mail a Certificate of Compliance. It is important to note that when working with government agencies, which is necessary when obtaining an expungement, it can always take some time and multiple calls to follow-up on the status. A Metairie expungement lawyer can help ensure the process stays on track.
Our Expungement Lawyer in Metairie Can Advise On Your Case
If you have been charged or convicted of a crime, you do have legal options. At Palazzo Law Firm, our Metairie expungement lawyer can advise on your eligibility and help you through the process to give you the best chance of having your record sealed. Call us now at 504-433-1442 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation with our skilled attorney.
