Do you have a criminal arrest or a conviction on your record in Passaic County, New Jersey? If so, you are likely eligible to have the offense expunged if you meet the criteria. Expungement is a legal mechanism that wipes your record clean of the particular offense, or even your entire criminal history, depending on the circumstances. This process "seals" your criminal history from the prying eyes of employers, schools, and many others. Most offenses are expungeable, but there are exceptions for "serious" offenses.
An expungement is an incredibly beneficial thing to have, as it allows you to move forward without the weight of a criminal conviction around you, pulling you down. New Jersey attorney Joseph Lento has nearly two decades of experience in the criminal justice system and can work hard to seal your criminal record when possible.
The "Clean Slate" Law Under New Jersey Law
If an offender has not committed a criminal offense within the last ten years, and he or she has not been convicted of certain "serious crimes," that person may be eligible to use New Jersey's "clean slate" law. The law permits those who have not committed a new criminal offense in a lengthy period of time to have a clear criminal record, thus allowing you to move on from past mistakes or injustices. As part of this law, low-level marijuana convictions can also be sealed after the completion of the case. This prevents these low-level offenses from being used against you in the future outside of the legal system.
Are you eligibile for expungement?
Those individuals who are actually eligible for expungement can quickly become a complicated thing to determine. Eligibility depends greatly on what offense was committed, and how long ago the conviction or arrest occurred. Some offenses may never be eligible for expungement. Typically, eligibility hinges on the severity of the crime of which you were convicted. However, you should not assume your offense is ineligible, it is worth the time to inquire of a knowledgeable attorney to see if you are eligible.
Expungement: Juvenile Records in Passaic County
Under New Jersey law, a juvenile criminal record is eligible for total expungement. If a minor has finished his or her conditions placed upon him or her by the judge, in many cases the juvenile court judge will wipe the minor's record clean. At times, the process is this easy, while in other circumstances it requires a little bit more work by your attorney.
In either case, your attorney can take you through the complicated process of getting your juvenile record wiped clean. If you are able to head into adulthood without a criminal record, your opportunities and life will be made greater. You should not be followed forever by the mistakes of the past.
Consult a Passaic County Expungement Attorney
Even the New Jersey Court System's educational materials on pursuing an expungement state "The court system can be confusing, and it is a good idea to get a lawyer if you can." With the help of an experienced attorney, you can get the benefits of an expungement if you are eligible.
If you want to pursue expungement of a criminal record for yourself or your child, contact the Lento Law Firm today at (888) 535-3686.
