Debunking 4 Myths About Criminal Record Expungement

If you have a criminal conviction on your record, you may be feeling the effects; finding a job can be challenging when you have to disclose your conviction on a job application, and even getting approved for a lease on an apartment can be difficult with a criminal record. The good news, however, is that many non-violent convictions can be legally expunged after several years--meaning they will no longer show up on a criminal background screening.

Still, there's a lot of misinformation out there about criminal record expungement. By being aware of these myths, you can make a better-informed decision moving forward with your own expungement.

Myth #1: Juvenile Records Are Automatically Expunged

If you were convicted of crimes as a juvenile, you might assume that these won't affect you once you become an adult. Unfortunately, juvenile records are typically not sealed once you reach adulthood--and those past convictions can do just as much damage as a recent one. In order to have juvenile charges sealed, you'll likely need to go through the formal expungement process with the court where you were originally convicted.

Myth #2: Misdemeanors Don't Stay on Your Record Forever

Some people make the mistaken assumption that a misdemeanor will "fall off" your record after so many years. In reality, misdemeanors are just as permanent as felonies. They don't go anywhere unless you have them legally expunged.

Myth #3: Felony Convictions Cannot Be Expunged

Speaking of felonies, don't assume that just because you have a felony conviction on your record that it is not eligible for expungement. While exact laws can vary from one state to the next, many states will expunge non-violent felonies from a person's record if he or she meets certain eligibility requirements.

Myth #4: You'll Have to Make Another Appearance in Court

Depending on the nature of your convictions and the exact expungement process for the court system where you're applying for expungement, it is possible that you'll be asked to appear at a court hearing. The good news here is that if you have a criminal defense lawyer representing you, there's a good chance you won't have to physically attend the hearing because your attorney will be able to show up on your behalf. This is just one of many reasons to hire a criminal defense lawyer if you're looking to have your record expunged; these professionals can provide valuable guidance and improve your chances of success.