What are the Long-Term Consequences of a Criminal Record?

It is no secret that a criminal record can have a serious impact on your life. Committing a crime can follow you for years to come. This record can cause a lot of trouble when it comes to important decisions you may want to make. As a result, it is important to learn more about these potential consequences and what to do about them. Read on to learn more about criminal records in New Jersey.

What Are the Consequences of a Criminal Record?

If you have applied for a job, you have probably seen a section that asks you about your criminal history. The same question may have appeared on a college application, or while you tried to lease an apartment. Having a record can affect you in a number of ways, including when it comes to things like:

• Employment
• Higher education
• Housing
• Financing
• Child custody

What is Expungement?

Luckily, your record does not have to be entirely permanent. In New Jersey, you may have the option of expungement. Expungement means your criminal record is essentially sealed from the public. If your record is expunged, it will only be accessible to certain members of law enforcement, making it easier to live your life without a record following you. So, you will not have to disclose your record on things like job applications in the future. In New Jersey, many crimes but can be expunged, but it is important to note that some crimes cannot be expunged. These crimes include:

• Murder
• Kidnapping
• Aggravated Sexual Assault
• Robbery
• Arson
• Perjury
• Distribution, sale, or possession with intent to distribute controlled substances

In New Jersey, you will have to wait five years from the date of conviction to request an expungement. 

What is the Expungement Process?

The expungement process includes:

• Filing the Petition for Expungement, the Order for Hearing, and the Expungement Order
• Writing a cover letter detailing all of the documents the court will file
• Distribute copies of these files to any government agency that was involved in your case
• Attend the hearing to obtain a decision on the expungement petition

If you have a criminal record and you would like to have it expunged, contact our firm to find out more about the process. We are here to walk you through all of your criminal law matters and act as your advocate.

CONTACT OUR FIRM

Kevin T. Conway is an experienced Bergen County criminal attorney handling DUI, DWI, traffic violations, violent crimes, sex crimes, illegal gun possession, shoplifting, and juvenile crimes. Attorney Conway is also experienced in commercial law matters, zoning law, and estate planning. If you need an aggressive criminal lawyer, contact The Law Office of Kevin T. Conway for a free consultation.