What to Know About Expungement in New Jersey

A criminal record can have serious long-term effects. Luckily, many crimes in New Jersey are eligible for expungement. Read on to learn more about expungement and the process.

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

A crime can be committed in moments, but the effects can last years. A criminal record can impact:

• Employment- Most job applications ask whether you have been convicted of a crime. If asked, you will be obligated to say “yes.” This can impact your chances of getting the job.
• Higher education- College applications will also consider a criminal record when deciding whether to accept you.
• Housing- Many landlords run background checks and may be wary of renting to someone with a criminal record.
• Financing- Unfortunately, those with criminal records cannot apply for certain loans.
• Child custody- Your criminal record can impact your child custody arrangements. For example, committing a crime may be seen as violating your custody agreement, which is to do what is in your child’s best interest.

What is Expungement?

Luckily, you may have options when it comes to your criminal record. In New Jersey, you may be able to have your record expunged. 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. As a result, you will not have to disclose your record on things like job applications in the future.

What Crimes Cannot Be Expunged?

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

What is the Expungement Process?

The expungement process in New Jersey is as follows:

• 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 are interested in having your record expunged, reach out to our firm today. We are here to walk you through the process every step of the way.

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.