Understanding Criminal Expungement in Virginia
If you have been arrested, you may find that having a conviction on your record makes it difficult to find a job or closes doors to other opportunities. Even if you were not convicted of the crime, the mere existence of an arrest on your record can cause problems. In some cases, it is possible to seek to have your record cleared or expunged.
People have many reasons to seek an expungement. Oftentimes a person is seeking a job or is just trying to put the charge(s) behind them. The person may also be years removed from the incident, seeking to adopt or become a foster parent, or find themselves in a situation requiring an extensive background check.
If you want to explore the possibility of having your record expunged, you need to be aware of your options and limitations. In Virginia, you can have your record expunged if, after you were charged, the attorney for the Commonwealth withdrew the charges or you were found not guilty, or the Judge dismissed the charges. Additionally, you may seek an expungement if you receive an absolute pardon for a crime you have been previously convicted of. Unfortunately, if you were found guilty, your record cannot be expunged unless you receive an absolute pardon.
If a crime that you did not commit is lingering on your record and/or creating obstacles for you, you may want to explore the possibilities of having your record expunged. The criminal defense attorneys at Smith Law Firm, PLC have over 60 years combined experience in assisting criminal defendants and individuals seeking expungements of their record. Call today for a free consultation.
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