A criminal charge or conviction can follow you for years, even long after you’ve paid your fines or completed your sentence. It can affect your ability to find a job, rent a home, apply for student loans, or advance in your career. Fortunately, North Carolina law gives many people a second chance through a process known as expunction, or expungement. Contact an experienced expunction attorney in Charlotte, NC can help you erase your criminal record and start over with a clean slate.
What Is an Expunction?
An expunction is a legal process that removes an arrest, charge, or conviction from your public criminal record. Once your record is expunged, it is as though the charge never occurred. Employers, landlords, and most background checks will no longer be able to see the expunged record.
Under North Carolina General Statute § 15A-145, there are several types of expunctions available, depending on your situation. You may qualify if you were:
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Charged but not convicted (your case was dismissed or you were found not guilty)
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Convicted of certain misdemeanors or nonviolent felonies after a waiting period
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Convicted of offenses committed before age 18 or 21
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Convicted of drug possession or drug paraphernalia offenses as a first-time offender
Each category has its own eligibility requirements, waiting periods, and court procedures. A Charlotte expunction lawyer can review your record and determine which option fits your situation.
Why You Need an Expunction Attorney in Charlotte
While it may sound simple, the expunction process can be complex and time-consuming. It involves filing petitions with the Mecklenburg County Clerk of Court, providing certified copies of court records, and often waiting several months for approval. Mistakes or missing documents can cause unnecessary delays—or even result in your petition being denied.
A skilled expunction attorney will:
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Review your criminal history and determine your eligibility for expunction
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Gather and file all necessary paperwork with the court
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Communicate with the Mecklenburg County District Attorney’s Office and the State Bureau of Investigation (SBI)
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Represent you at any required court hearings
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Ensure that once approved, your record is properly cleared from all databases
Having a lawyer who understands the local court system can make a significant difference. An attorney familiar with Charlotte’s judicial process can navigate the paperwork efficiently and avoid common pitfalls that could delay your case.
The Benefits of Expunging Your Record
Clearing your criminal record offers more than peace of mind—it opens doors. With an expungement, you can legally answer “no” when asked if you’ve been convicted of a crime (in most cases). It can help you:
- Secure better employment opportunities
- Qualify for professional licenses
- Access better housing options
- Apply for student aid or education programs
- Most importantly, it gives you the opportunity to move forward without the weight of your past holding you back.
Take the First Step Toward a Clean Slate
If you qualify for an expungement, don’t try to navigate the process alone. A clean record can mean a fresh start—and the right attorney can help you achieve it. Take control of your future today by speaking with the experienced expunction lawyer your friends and neighbors trust—Jason Reece.
