A criminal record can be a significant barrier to various opportunities in life, including employment, education, and housing. In Ohio, certain criminal records can be expunged or sealed, which can help individuals overcome these barriers. Whether you’re in Bowling Green, Findlay, or elsewhere in Ohio, understanding the process of expungement and how a criminal defense attorney can assist is crucial. Here’s a detailed look at how expungement works in Ohio and how it can potentially offer you a fresh start.
What is Expungement?
Expungement is the legal process of erasing or removing completely a criminal record from public view. In Ohio, this process is also commonly referred to as sealing a record. When a record is sealed, it is not erased per se, but it is hidden from most of the general public, including potential employers or landlords.
Eligibility for Expungement in Ohio
The eligibility for expungement in Ohio depends on several factors, including the type of crime committed, the number of convictions, and the time that has elapsed since the conviction or completion of the sentence. Generally, a person may be eligible if they have one or two misdemeanors, one misdemeanor and one felony, or one felony conviction. Some serious offenses, such as DUIs, are typically not eligible for expungement.
How a Criminal Defense Attorney in Bowling Green or Findlay Can Help
Navigating the expungement process can be complex and varies from one jurisdiction to another. A skilled DUI attorney in Bowling Green or a criminal lawyer in Findlay will understand the nuances of local laws and can help you understand your eligibility for expungement. They can handle the necessary paperwork, represent you in court, and guide you through the entire process.
- Assessing Your Case: An Ohio criminal defense attorney will first evaluate your case to determine if you are eligible for expungement under Ohio law.
- Filing the Petition: If you are eligible, your attorney will file a petition for expungement on your behalf. This includes gathering the necessary documentation and submitting it to the court.
- Representing You in Court: In many cases, a court hearing is required. Your criminal defense attorney in Bowling Green will represent you, making a case as to why your record should be sealed.
The Benefits of Expungement
The sealing of a criminal record can have profound benefits:
- Employment: You can legally state that you have not been convicted of a crime on job applications.
- Housing: Access to better housing opportunities without the hindrance of background checks revealing a criminal past.
- Education: Increased eligibility for some types of financial aid and acceptance into educational programs.
- Personal and Social: Removing the stigma associated with having a criminal record.
Take the Next Step: Contact a Reputable Ohio Criminal Defense Attorney
If you believe that expungement could be a viable option for you, or you simply want more information about the process, don’t hesitate to get in touch with a knowledgeable legal professional. Whether you need a DUI attorney in Bowling Green, a criminal defense attorney in Bowling Green, or a criminal lawyer in Findlay, our law firm is here to help. Contact us at 419-419-0697 to schedule a consultation and start the journey toward clearing your name. Let us help you navigate the complexities of the law and pursue a future unburdened by your past.
