Expungement Lawyers in Statesboro, Georgia

Trusted Legal Assistance in Bulloch County Since 1997

Expungement is the term for having criminal records removed from public access.

A criminal conviction leaves a permanent mark on your record that can later be accessed by:

• Future employers
• Landlords
• Educational institutions
• Professional licensing agencies
• And more

While expungement may not be possible for everyone, Gabe T. Cliett P.C., Attorney at Law can provide knowledgeable and skilled legal assistance with this matter. Our Statesboro expungement attorney has been helping clients apply for and gain record restriction since 1997.

Our expungement attorneys in Georgia are here to help. Call (912) 274-7752 or fill out our online form to request a free, initial consultation regarding your situation today.

Understanding Record Restrictions in Georgia

Record restriction applies only in specific cases and does not completely erase your records; they will still be accessible by judicial and criminal justice officials for the purpose of investigations or as regards employment with a law enforcement agency. Those who have been convicted of a crime in Georgia are not eligible for record restriction. Your criminal record is generally permanent.

Eligibility for Record Restriction in Georgia

Those who may qualify for a record restriction include the following:

• You were arrested but your case never led to formal charges by the prosecutor
• You were arrested and an indictment followed but the charges were dismissed or were discontinued
• You were found not guilty at trial
• Your case was dismissed for various (and specific) reasons
• Your conviction was vacated
• You were under 21 and convicted of a specific misdemeanor
• A felony charge was closed with no conviction and you were convicted of some other unrelated misdemeanor

What Are Automatic Record Restrictions?

Any of the above scenarios will involve certain other conditions that must be met as well as potential time limits. A law was passed in 2013 in Georgia that automatically restricts certain arrest records after that date.

If your arrest occurred prior to 2013, you should consult with our attorney. Automatic restrictions occur after two years for most misdemeanors, four years for most felonies, and seven years for violent and sex-related felonies.

Timeline for Expungement in Georgia

In Georgia, the process of expungement can take up to 150 days and is as follows. The length of the process depend on a variety of factors.

To complete the process of sealing your record through expungement, the following steps must be taken:

• File a petition with the court
• Provide evidence that supports your case
• Obtain an order from the judge requiring restriction and sealing of your record
• Contact the court clerk and arresting law enforcement agency to ensure compliance with the court order

Can You Expunge a Felony Conviction in Georgia?

Georgia does not usually expunge felonies. It does not matter how much time has passed since your conviction. If you have been convicted of a felony, you may be eligible for a pardon from the State Board of Pardons and Paroles.

Contact a Statesboro Expungement Attorney Today

The laws regarding expungement and record restriction are complicated. In order to understand where your case may fit in, it is best to get the legal counsel of our experienced criminal law attorney. Should you be eligible for record restriction, our firm can put the wheels in motion to help you move forward without the burden of a permanent criminal record.

Have additional questions regarding Georgia expungement law? Give us a call at (912) 274-7752 or contact us online for legal help today.