A Wagoner County Expungement attorney will help you erase any of your past criminal records under the new laws. As of November 2019, the expungement laws in Oklahoma have changed drastically. It’s now easier for many people to expunge a criminal record. Those who do want to have their criminal record sealed will need to make sure they are eligible under the new laws and fill out the paperwork needed to start the process.
What Changed with the New Laws?
Although Oklahoma has expungements, there were formerly many different restrictions. This was difficult for most people to qualify. The new laws make it easier to get an expungement, and expands the number of records that you can seal, including the number of felony charges. This allows more people to be eligible. Additionally, it reclassifies some felony drug charges so they can be sealed. With the new laws, anyone who wants to have their records expunged should see if they qualify, even if they didn’t before.
Qualifying for Expungement
There are certain restrictions on who is eligible for an expungement of their criminal records. While an expungement can erase the person’s whole arrest record, they need to meet the following requirements.
- The convictions must be for a non-violent offense or other disqualifying offenses. Most non-violent offenses are eligible.
- The person cannot have a conviction of a misdemeanor or felony in a period following the latest conviction or deferred sentence.
- The person must not have any pending misdemeanor or felony charges.
- The person must have completed their sentence at least five years before applying for expungement.
Limitations to Expunging Records
While an expungement can seal someone’s criminal record, there are still some limitations. An expungement doesn’t restore the right to own a firearm. However, this can be happen if the person not only expunges their records but also receives a pardon. The records will be sealed, but law enforcement can still view them if needed and under limited conditions. Also, if you receive convictions of multiple felonies and misdemeanors you may have more restrictions. Additionally, if you receive charges or convictions for crimes in different counties in Oklahoma, the filing of the motion for expungement will in the County where the charges happen.
Expungement Seals Your Criminal Record in Wagoner
For those who are now eligible under the new Wagoner County expungement rules, having this done can provide a number of benefits. Even though there are restrictions, they will be able to say they have never been arrested or convicted of a felony. This can open up job prospects and help them find employment as well as boost their earning potential. Once the expungement finishes, the records will not show up on standard background checks. This can help in other parts of their life as well, like finding a place to live if the local apartments run background checks before leasing.
Wagoner County Expungement
A Wagoner County expungement is a great gift to you. Once they grant expungement, the expunged crimes don’t show up on a background check. This means that you can answer employment applications that ask if you have a conviction of a crime as no you haven’t. Be a part of criminal reform actions in Oklahoma and bury your past mistakes.