how to get an expungement without a lawyer

How to Expunge a DUI Without an Attorney.

• 1. Make Sure You Qualify. This may seem obvious, but you don't want to get too far into the process if it's not even available or practically ...
• 2. Obtain a Copy of Your Criminal Records. As more jurisdictions have converted paper records to digital (and often online) records, accessing your ...
• 3. Access and Complete the Appropriate Form (s) You will need to download (or pick up from the court) the appropriate form for your expungement ...
• 4. Attach Additional Documents. Each petition for expungement is different, but you may be required to provide more lengthy explanations using ...

Full Answer

Can I expunge my criminal record without a lawyer?

Most states provide a way for their residents to expunge or seal their criminal records. The method varies by state, but many jurisdictions have enacted procedures that make it easier to proceed without an attorney. Some states even provide free clinics to help guide you through the process.

How do I get my criminal record expunged?

Generally, to begin the legal process for expunging or sealing your records, you’ll need your copy of the criminal record, including written documentation of the arrest and/or the conviction you're hoping to expunge. If you don’t have yours, it’s usually available through the arresting agency.

When to use the expungement for non conviction form?

Use the Expungement for Non Conviction forms if: You want to expunge an arrest, criminal charge, or juvenile delinquency allegation from your record, and The arrest did not lead to a conviction. This means there was a finding of ‘not guilty’, the entire case has been dismissed, or the entire case has been vacated on appeal, and

What does it mean to get a misdemeanor expunged?

Getting a misdemeanor expunged is the easiest way you can let go of a criminal past and move on with your life. Expungement means to legally pardon a person’s previous crime.

What crimes Cannot be expunged in Michigan?

What kinds of convictions are not eligible to be expunged?All offenses punishable by life imprisonment.Assault with intent to commit criminal sexual conduct.Child sexually abusive material or activity offenses.Felony domestic violence if the person has a previous misdemeanor conviction for domestic violence.More items...•

How long does the expungement process take in Illinois?

about six monthsAfter the petition is filed, the state's attorney, the state police, and all other notified parties have 60 days to object. If the judge grants the petition, an order is entered, and all state agencies are given 60 days to expunge or seal the record. The total process typically takes about six months.

What crimes Cannot be expunged in California?

The Convictions That Cannot Be Expunged in California…Child pornography crimes.Certain sexual assault crimes.Committing lewd acts with a minor.Failure to submit to a police inspection of vehicle.

How long does expungement take in Indiana?

approximately four to six monthsThe average Indiana expungement takes approximately four to six months. While that is the average timeframe, some expungements will be completed more quickly and some will take longer, depending on the facts of the case, whether the DA agrees or objects, and the age of the case, etc.

How can I get my record expunged in Illinois for free?

If you cannot afford the Circuit Clerk Filing Fee or the Illinois State Police Processing Fee, you can ask the court to waive them. You can find a fee waiver form, which can be used to waive fees in expungement and sealing cases, at: illinoiscourts.gov/forms/approved.

How much does expungement cost in Illinois?

How much does it cost? Getting your record expunged or sealed will cost you a filing fee at the courthouse plus $60 for the Illinois State Police. Some local law enforcement agencies may also charge a processing fee. Filing fees vary from county to county and may be obtained from the appropriate Circuit Clerk.

Can you do a self expungement in California?

File a DIY Petition for Expungement in CaliforniaObtain a copy of your criminal record. You can get a copy of your record from the superior court.Complete probation. ... Pay all fines, fees, and restitution.In the case of a felony, petition the court to reduce charges. ... In the case of a misdemeanor, complete and submit CR-180.

Who qualifies for expungement?

You can apply to have your criminal record expunged when: a period of 10 years has passed after the date of the conviction for that offence. you have not been convicted and sentenced to a period of imprisonment without the option of a fine during those 10 years. the sentence was corporal punishment.

How much does it cost to expunge your record in California?

Including Court Costs, ALL Legal Work and Court Appearances: Infraction Expungement $590* Misdemeanor Expungements $695* Misdemeanor DUI Expungement $820. Felony Expungement $915* (includes a reduction to a misdemeanor when eligible)

How much does expungement cost Indiana?

In most cases, the filing fee for a petition for expungement is equal to the court's civil filing fee (currently $156 for most courts). The court may reduce or waive this fee if the person is indigent. There is no filing fee for a petition for expungement of an arrest record that did not lead to a conviction.

How long after expungement can I buy a gun in Indiana?

Under Indiana law, those with domestic convictions must apply to have their gun rights restored through a separate application process. (I.C. 35-47-4-7). Under this process, five years after a conviction, a person may petition a court to have the right to possess a firearm restored.

How do I file a petition for an expungement in Indiana?

A petition for expungement or seal can be filed with a local court of jurisdiction in Indiana by an individual (pro se) or by private legal counsel. The Indiana State Police cannot give legal advice regarding the filing of a petition.

How to file a petition for a hearing before a judge?

To file, go to the clerk of the court in the appropriate jurisdiction, pay the required fees, and submit the petition and required documentation to request a hearing before a judge. Some jurisdictions allow you to mail this paperwork to the court via certified mail.

What happens if you are found guilty of a crime?

For most people, it’s no surprise that any time you’re found guilty of a crime, the information lands on a written report regarding your history with the judicial system. But even if you’re eventually found innocent, the details about your arrest remain on the record. Having your criminal convictions or arrests expunged removes those details from the prying eyes of potential landlords, employers and others interested in your background. Expunction doesn’t always completely erase your past, however, since many states allow judges and law enforcement agencies to access confidential records.

Can you seal your criminal record without an attorney?

The method varies by state, but many jurisdictions have enacted procedures that make it easier to proceed without an attorney. Some states even provide free clinics to help guide you through the process.

Who do you send copies of your hearing notice to?

You are also required to send copies of your paperwork and the scheduled hearing notice to several state and county agencies, such as the county prosecutor’s office. This step is time sensitive since these agencies must have advance notice of your hearing date.

Can a court clerk give legal advice?

The court clerk or website for the court in the county where you were arrested can often direct you to information about necessary qualifications, as well as the appropriate forms and filing process. The clerk cannot give you legal advice regarding your case.

Expungement Is Available for Adults Only in Limited Situations

Expungement of a criminal record essentially means that the record is destroyed, at least as far as the public is concerned. The record still may be accessed under certain circumstances for employment or law enforcement purposes, but for the most part, an expunged record no longer exists. However, not all criminal records can be expunged.

Will You Need a Lawyer to Expunge a Charge?

Illinois, through the office of the State Appellate Defender and the state Supreme Court-created Access to Justice Commission, has made major steps to make the expungement process more user-friendly. The two offices have worked together to create forms to apply for expungement or sealing of criminal records that are accepted statewide.

Contact the Criminal Defense Attorneys of Martin & Kent, L.L.C. for Assistance With Filing for Expungement of Charges

If you are attempting to have your criminal record expunged, you should consider seeking experienced assistance. Starting with determining whether you are eligible all the way to handling your court hearing to maximize your likelihood of success, an experienced team on your side could make a world of difference.

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How to get an arrest expunged?

Use the Expungement for Non Conviction forms if: 1 You want to expunge an arrest, criminal charge, or juvenile delinquency allegation from your record, and 2 The arrest did not lead to a conviction. This means there was a finding of ‘not guilty’, the entire case has been dismissed, or the entire case has been vacated on appeal, and 3 The arrest is at least one year old, and 4 There are no charges currently pending against you, and 5 You are not participating in a pretrial diversion program.

Does an arrest lead to a conviction?

The arrest did not lead to a conviction. This means there was a finding of ‘not guilty’, the entire case has been dismissed, or the entire case has been vacated on appeal, and. You are not participating in a pretrial diversion program.