If you have a criminal record, you already know the negative impact it can have on your life. A criminal record can prevent you from obtaining reliable housing, it can impact your personal relationships, and it can hurt your chances of finding gainful work. However, an expungement could help you put the past behind you and move forward toward a bright, unblemished future. By expunging your criminal record, you could move forward with your life without the stigma of a criminal record looming over you.
What is Expungement?
An expungement can clear an arrest from your public record, preventing most people from access to your criminal history. Unlike many other states, Alabama only permits expungement of arrests; a conviction can not be expunged from your record. Likewise, you might also pursue a pardon, which can exonerate a person convicted of a crime. However, if pardoned, the charge may still appear on your record, albeit with a note explaining that the crime had been pardoned.
Qualifying for Expungement
Not every crime will qualify for expungement, in fact, few crimes warrant any form of legal forgiveness. Alabama courts will only grant an expungement for less severe crimes, such as driving violations or non-violent crimes.
In Alabama, an arrest for the following crimes may warrant an expungement:
- DUI
- First or Second Degree Possession of Marijuana
- Possession of a Controlled Substance
- Third Degree Misdemeanor Domestic Violence
You can also qualify for an expungement for non-violent felonies, any misdemeanor crimes, or any municipal ordinance violation.
Do you think you qualify for an expungement? An expungement can help secure a brighter future for you and your family, especially if you are dealing with issues regarding immigration or child custody. Our firm can assess your situation and determine whether you qualify for an expungement. We can submit a Petition for Expungement to the Circuit Court Judge on your behalf and prepare you for any hearings or legal proceedings that follow. To learn more about your options, we encourage you to reach out to our team at Tidwell Law Group LLC.
Contact Tidwell Law Group LLC today to schedule a consultation with our attorneys.
