Have a Criminal Record and Can't Get a Job? Once you have been convicted of a crime, you will have a record. This makes it difficult to find a job or even rent an apartment, because you are required to include this information on applications. If you choose not to disclose this information, any potential employer has the right to run a background check. The check will reveal a wealth of personal information, including any felonies or misdemeanors on your record, past arrests and current warrants.
There is a way to remove this information from your record – the process is called expungement. Expungement is the removal of all records on file with the courts and prisons including those within the juvenile justice system. This means that your criminal record will not appear on any background checks. However, you must file a petition for expungement and you will need an experienced attorney to guide you through this lengthy process. The lawyers at Villani & DeLuca can assist you. Call 732-782-9833 today for a free consultationhttp://longbeachislandcriminallawyer.com/contact-us.
Expungement Process in New Jersey
A petition for expungement states that you are requesting an expungement order and the outlines reasons why you qualify. The petition needs to be filed with the Superior Court in the county where you were arrested and prosecuted. A judge decides whether you will be given an expungement.
Your petition must include the date of your arrest, the statute and offense for which you were arrested and convicted, the original indictment, docket number and warrant number or complaint number. In addition, the date of the conviction or dismissal and the sentence must be included. The process for expunging juvenile records is the same as that for adult records. Both adult and juvenile records can be included on one expungement petition.
Next, the judge schedules a hearing which usually takes place within 35 to 60 days after your petition is received. If the judge grants your petition for expungement, he/she will sign an expungement order. Copies of the order must be provided to all government agencies that were involved with your case.
Governor Christie Shortens Wait Time for Expungement
In January, Governor Christie signed legislation that cut the wait time for expungement in half. This law allows for expungement of a criminal conviction to take place after 5 years, instead of 10 and a disorderly person's offense to be expunged after 3 years instead of 5 years. This will allow for people to find gainful employment sooner and hopefully prevent people from re-offending.
Get Started Today – Clear Your Record
Expunging your record will allow you to put your mistakes behind you. Contact Villani & DeLuca to get started today. Our attorneys will guide you through each step of the expungement process so you can move forward without the fear of your record stopping you from finding a job. Call us at 732-782-9833.