A criminal record can be one of the most frustrating consequences of an alleged offense. Even years after a person has completed their sentence, others may learn about their prior mistake by conducting a background check.
A shoplifting incident or drug offense from years ago could affect employment opportunities and even access to higher education. Those who have moved on with their lives and avoided additional criminal charges can sometimes petition the courts for an expungement.
What types of criminal records can people successfully expunge in Alabama?
Cases that did not lead to convictions
The state reports records of arrests and charges even in cases where the state did not pursue criminal charges or individuals did not end up convicted.
Many people seek to expunge records of a prior arrest, dismissed charges or charges that did not lead to criminal convictions. People may be able to dismiss records related to both misdemeanor and felony charges, with exceptions for certain types of violent offenses.
Minor misdemeanor offenses
State lawmakers actually expanded expungement rules in Alabama in recent years. Previously, convictions were essentially eligible for expungement.
Under current policies, certain minor misdemeanor convictions may be eligible for expungement. People who wait enough time, avoid additional charges and follow the right procedure can ask the courts to remove the record of a minor prior offense.
Those hoping to address criminal records that affect their lives may need support as they determine their eligibility and prepare paperwork for the expungement process, and that’s okay. Securing the support of a lawyer can increase the chances of successfully expunging a prior arrest or minor conviction.