Our expungement lawyers will help you clean your record.

The past doesn’t define our future.

But a criminal record can really hurt your chances of getting back on your feet. If you have been convicted of a crime and done the time, it’s possible to start fresh.

An expungement, also known as an expunction, is the legal process of removing some or all of a person’s criminal history from the public record. In North Carolina, this is achieved through a court order and requires meeting specific state expungement requirements.

Why is Expungement Important?

A criminal record can impact your life in many ways. Potential employers, educational institutions, and even personal relationships often review your criminal history. Clearing your record can open doors that were previously closed, allowing you to rebuild and move forward.

Consulting with a skilled criminal defense lawyer is crucial for several reasons:

• Expertise in Legal Nuances: The expungement process can be complex, with various legal nuances that require professional expertise. A lawyer ensures that each step is handled with precision.

• Accurate and Timely Filing: Ensuring that your petition is filed correctly and on time is critical. A lawyer’s knowledge of local legal procedures and deadlines can prevent unnecessary delays or errors.

• Customized Guidance: Every case is unique, and a seasoned lawyer can provide personalized guidance tailored to your specific situation, maximizing your chances for a successful expungement.

With professional support, you can navigate the legal landscape confidently and work toward a future unencumbered by past mistakes.

The Process

While North Carolina recognizes the value of expunging past mistakes to help individuals start anew, the process can be complex. However, at Minick Law, we can guide you through the entire procedure, helping you get eligible convictions wiped clean from your record. Because everyone deserves a second chance.

Types of expungement:

There are a number of different types of expunctions that can be filed in North Carolina.

Determining your eligibility and the best type of expunction to file is our first step. You want to make sure that your expunction is filed correctly because many of the expunctions available in North Carolina can only be requested once by the individual seeking to clean up their criminal record.

To help you understand your eligibility, here are some common categories that might qualify for expungement:

• First-time, nonviolent felony offenses that were committed more than 10 years ago.
• First-time, nonviolent misdemeanor offenses that were committed more than 5 years ago.
• Certain first-time offenses committed under the age of 18 or 22, which may be considered for special circumstances.
• Cases where charges were dismissed or resulted in acquittal (not guilty).

Understanding these criteria is essential to ensure that your application is comprehensive and meets the legal requirements. Our aim is to guide you through this process efficiently, so you can move forward with confidence.

What Types of Offenses Can Be Expunged in North Carolina?

In North Carolina, the opportunity to clear your criminal record is available for specific types of offenses. Here’s a closer look at what might be eligible for expungement:

1. Old, Nonviolent Felonies
You can seek expungement for nonviolent felony offenses as long as they were committed over 10 years ago and it was your first offense.

2. Older Nonviolent Misdemeanors
If you have a nonviolent misdemeanor charge that happened more than 5 years ago, you may be eligible, assuming it’s your first brush with the law.

3. Youthful Offenses
Offenses committed for the first time when you were under the ages of 18 or 22 can also potentially be expunged, offering a fresh start for youthful mistakes.

4. Dismissed or Acquitted Charges
If you faced charges that were ultimately dismissed or resulted in an acquittal, you may expunge these from your record, erasing the shadows of unwarranted accusations.

Take note that while these categories cover many situations, the eligibility for expungement also depends on other factors such as the details of the offense and the behavior of the individual since.

How Long Does the Expungement Process Take in North Carolina?

In North Carolina, the expungement process is not quick, requiring several steps and patience from applicants. Here’s what you can generally expect in terms of timeline:

• Initial Application and Criminal Background Check: Once you submit your petition for expungement, the first step involves a thorough criminal background check. This phase alone can take several months to complete, as it involves extensive examination and verification.

• Petition Review: After the background check, your petition will go through a review process. This period can vary but typically adds additional time to the overall process.

• Court Scheduling and Decision: Depending on the court’s schedule and workload, it may take more time before your case is heard and a decision is made.

Overall, the entire expungement process—from submitting your petition to receiving a final decision—can take quite an extended period, often stretching beyond several months. It’s essential to prepare for this and remain patient while the necessary legal procedures are fulfilled. 

Legal Services for Expungement Beyond Greensboro

Navigating the complexities of expungement can be challenging, but specialized legal services extend their expertise beyond just local clients. In the North Carolina Triad, dedicated professionals offer a range of services aimed at helping you clear your record.

Comprehensive Legal Support

1. Personalized Consultation: Professionals offer tailored advice to determine your eligibility for expungement based on your unique circumstances.

2. Document Preparation: Assistance with compiling and submitting the necessary forms and paperwork to enhance the chances of a successful expungement.

3. Court Representation: Skilled representation for clients during court proceedings, ensuring a strong case presentation.

4. Post-Expungement Guidance: After successful expungement, clients receive guidance on how to effectively leverage their cleared records for personal and professional growth.

By collaborating with legal experts, individuals across the Triad can confidently pursue the expungement process with clarity and support.