Maryland Expungement Attorneys
Looking for Expungement? Albers & Associates Can Help.
If you have a criminal record, the pressure of your previous actions is likely weighing on you in a variety of areas in your life, depending on what you were charged with. Even if you weren’t convicted, there is still a record of your charges and potential employers, leasing agents, and other authority figures may take issue with this. Thankfully, there are many instances where you can get your records expunged.
What is Expungement?
To expunge your records is to destroy them completely so that they cannot be read or seen by anyone ever again. In some instances, courts can seal your records, which may seem similar. However, sealed records can be opened again and thus, it’s not always the best option for your future. That being said, sometimes having your records sealed is better than leaving them out in the open. It’s best to talk it over with your lawyer to determine the best path of action.
Which Crimes are Eligible for Expungement?
Not all charges can be expunged, but there are several circumstances where expungement is possible:
- You were acquitted.
- The case was dismissed.
- You got a Probation Before Judgment (PBJ).
- The prosecution entered a “Nolle Prosequi”, which means that they decided to drop the case before the trial or in the midst of it.
- Your case was indefinitely postponed in a stet docket.
- Your case was moved to juvenile court.
- You were found Not Criminally Responsible for a variety of crimes including loitering, vagrancy, and disturbing the peace.
- The law has changed and your previous crime is no longer a criminal offense.
What If I Was Found Guilty?
If you were convicted of the crime you’re looking to get expunged, then you will have to wait a certain number of years before you can apply to have the record(s) expunged. For example, if you were convicted of possession of a controlled substance, then you will need to wait 10 years after the satisfactory completion of the sentence (including probation) or conviction, whichever was more recent. The time that you need to wait and the types of charges you can get expunged vary, but you can get a complete look here.
Can I Get a DUI Expunged?
If your case matches any of the circumstances above, then you may be able to get your DUI expunged. However, if you were convicted, then that DUI is with you forever. Because of the escalating nature of repeat offenses, DUI’s must remain on the record. In the event that you got a Probation Before Judgment, you can get it expunged if, and only if, you do not offend again within 3 years.
What’s the First Step?
For now, your best course of action is to call on a professional lawyer to help you navigate the complexity of getting your charges expunged. The experts at Albers & Associates will work to fully understand the details of your case, which will enable us to determine whether or not your charges are eligible for expungement with the greatest amount of success.
Contact us today to set up a free consultation and to learn more about how we can assist with getting your charges expunged.