Why You Should Consider Sealing or Expunging Your Record
Having a criminal record can make it difficult to secure a job, rent an apartment, or fully participate in society. However, the law offers pathways to clean up your past and regain control of your future. Whether you’re seeking to seal or expunge your record, Angiulo Law has the experience to guide you through the process with a collaborative, effective, and thorough approach.
We offer free consultations to review your CORI (criminal offender record information) and discuss the best course of action for your case. Whether it’s sealing or expunging your record, we’ll walk you through the process, the costs involved, and help you make an informed decision.
Types of Petitions to Seal or Expunge Your Record
There are two primary types of petitions you may be eligible for, depending on the details of your case:
1) Time-Based Petitions to Seal or Expunge
If you’ve completed your sentence and stayed out of trouble, you may be eligible to petition to seal or expunge your criminal record after a certain period of time:
- Misdemeanors: After three years without any further incidents or convictions, you can petition to seal or expunge your misdemeanor record.
- Felonies: After seven years with no other convictions, you may petition to seal or expunge your felony record.
These motions are straightforward and based on a clear timeframe and the absence of new legal incidents. Angiulo Law will guide you through every step of the petition process, ensuring your application is presented clearly and effectively.
2) Discretionary Motions to Seal Dismissed Cases
If your case was dismissed, whether through a Continuance Without a Finding (CWOF) or non-prosecution, you may still be eligible to have your record sealed. These motions involve a two-stage process:
- Stage 1: The initial petition is reviewed by the court. This petition must include an affidavit explaining why sealing your record is warranted. It will focus on presenting a prima facie case for why sealing is in your best interest.
- Stage 2: If the first petition is approved, a court hearing will be scheduled, where a judge will review the reasons for sealing and make a final decision.
Although these petitions take a little more time, they can result in significant benefits to your future, and Angiulo Law has handled many cases like this successfully.
Request Your CORI and Take the First Step Toward a Clean Record
If you’re ready to take control of your future, the first step is to obtain a copy of your CORI. You can request it here: Request your CORI.
Don’t let your past hold you back. Contact Angiulo Law today for a free consultation to review your criminal record and discuss how we can help you seal or expunge it.
