Richmond Hill Expungement Lawyer

Richmond Hill Expungement Attorney

One of the most damaging aspects of a criminal conviction in Richmond Hill is the mark that will haunt your criminal record. This can make it difficult to find employment in Bryan County. It can also prove more challenging to seek necessary lines of credit, secure suitable housing, and provide for yourself and your loved ones. However, you can seek an expungement or record sealing, and a Richmond Hill expungement lawyer knows how to make that happen.

At Jarrett Maillet J.D., P.C., we have handled thousands of criminal cases and helped a wide range of clients secure their future through record sealing or expungement. When you work with our team, we can review your case, determine your eligibility for expungement, and work to ultimately get your record cleared.

Legal Procedure for Expungement in Richmond Hill, GA

In Richmond Hill, the crime rate is currently 11.32 per 1,000 residents. While this might seem like a relatively low number, people are still convicted of criminal actions every day, including offenses such as domestic violence, weapon charges, and drug crimes. For some, seeking a record expungement is the right way to move on from a past mistake. In legal terms, an expungement occurs when the courts seal the court record and all the criminal case files that were associated with your case, which is particularly relevant when considering Georgia’s crime rate by city.

Once expunged, these records can only be viewed by having a court order. The entire process, however, can be extremely complicated, which is why it should only be attempted with the aid of a criminal defense attorney.

When seeking an expungement in Georgia, the individual must first submit a formal request, along with the necessary processing fee, to seal or erase their Georgia criminal records. The prosecution will then be allowed to use their own discretion to either deny or grant your application. If your application is approved, the record can either be destroyed or simply protected from disclosure rather quickly. Understanding the benefits of expunging a criminal record can help you appreciate the importance of this process.

To be eligible for expungement, you must meet the following requirements:

• Be cleared of criminal charges: A dismissal of criminal charges may happen when the case was never referred to the state prosecutor. Charges may also be dismissed when the prosecution decides to drop specific charges due to a plea bargain or other such agreement. The prosecution might also dismiss charges if there is no evidence to support them.
• Have no pending or upcoming criminal cases or prosecutions: This means that state prosecutors are not currently planning to take action, or they are not pursuing any kind of criminal case against you.
• Have no record of indictment in a court filing: This can happen if the charges are not properly prosecuted or do not appear in any kind of court docket or record. Additionally, you must have no other criminal convictions on your record dating back at least five years.

Benefits of Record Expungement in Georgia

Seeking the expungement of your criminal record can come with several key benefits. These can have a massive impact on your future well-being and financial security. Such benefits can include the following:

• Job opportunities: In Georgia, the unemployment rate for people with a criminal record is five times higher than for those without a criminal record. Many employers in Bryan County will conduct a background check before hiring. They may be less likely to choose a candidate, even if they are perfectly qualified for the job, who holds a criminal record.
• Better housing options: Many landlords in Richmond Hill will look at your criminal history when considering your application for rent. Expunging your record may open more housing opportunities in the future for you and your family.
• Professional licensing: Certain employment avenues will require you to undergo a background check to ensure that you have a clean record. Seeking an expungement can make it easier to secure needed employment certifications and licenses.

FAQs

Q: How Long Can It Take to Expunge a Criminal Record in Georgia?

A: In Georgia, it can take several weeks or months to seek an expungement of your criminal record. To better understand the timeline, you should be aware of all the steps included in the expungement process. First, you will need to file an official petition with the Richmond Hill Municipal Court and provide evidence that supports your case. You will then need to obtain an order from the judge, who can require the restriction or sealing of your record.

Q: Who Can Still See Expunged Records in Georgia?

A: Even after a criminal record is technically expunged in Georgia, it can still be viewed by certain parties. These include law enforcement agencies for certain criminal investigation purposes, along with other state agencies. However, you could have all records restricted if the charges brought against you were either dropped or dismissed, and you were not found guilty.

Q: What Charges Are Not Eligible for Expungement in Richmond Hill, GA?

A: Keep in mind that, in Richmond Hill, GA, not all criminal charges are eligible for expungement. Most felony convictions will not be eligible, including convictions for:

• Sexual assault & sex crimes
• Aggravated assault
• Sexual battery
• Child molestation
• Murder
• Serious traffic offenses, such as DUIs
• Certain theft crimes

In most serious offense cases, a criminal record cannot be expunged.

Q: What Information Can Be Expunged From a Criminal Record?

A: In Georgia, if your request for expungement is approved by the state, all your criminal records will be erased from the database of the original arresting agency. Your fingerprint cards, any photographs, and documents that relate solely to you will be gotten rid of. Any items that cannot be physically destroyed or must be retained for certain reasons will be held with restricted access.

Speak With a Trusted Expungement Lawyer Serving Richmond Hill Today

Sealing or expunging your criminal record can come with several key benefits that can allow you to move on and begin life anew. At Jarrett Maillet J.D., P.C., we can make sure your record is expunged or sealed. The laws surrounding these cases are complicated, and you deserve trusted legal counsel on your side. Contact our offices today to learn more about our services and set up your initial consultation.