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Even years after your arrest, having a criminal record can impact your life and prevent you from securing housing, employment, educational opportunities, and more. An arrest record can follow you for years, affecting your ability to find a job, obtain housing, or qualify for certain licenses. In particular, potential employers often conduct background checks, and an arrest record may limit your employment prospects. Expungement can help ensure that potential employers do not see your past record during these checks, giving you a fresh start. In Oklahoma, you may be able to clear your name through the expungement process. However, the process of expunging a record is complicated and requires the experience of an Edmond expungement lawyer.
As experienced criminal defense attorneys, our experienced attorneys have handled a wide range of expungement cases and understand the complexities involved in clearing arrest records. We care about our clients and the outcomes of their cases. We will walk you through the expungement process and efficiently resolve your case. There is no reason your mistakes from the past should continue to permeate your life. To learn more about your eligibility to have a criminal record expunged, contact AMA Law today. We offer free consultations and are available 24/7 to answer questions about your case.
An expungement is a legal process that involves sealing a criminal record, making it unavailable to the public. Expungement removes the record from public access and public record, so it is no longer available to most background checks. While some law enforcement officials and other agencies may be able to access the criminal history, it reduces the impact of the person’s record on other areas of their life.
In Oklahoma, there are two types of expungement. An arrest expungement under Title 22, Section 18 seals someone’s arrest from public view, while Section 991(a) only applies to those who were given a deferred sentence and expunges their plea. Expungement can apply to both criminal charges and criminal convictions. A case dismissed means the charges were dropped or not pursued, but the record may still appear on a public record; expungement is the process that actually removes or seals that record from public access.
If someone qualifies for an expungement, a seasoned Edmond attorney can help file the petition in the court where the original charges were filed. Expungement procedures can vary by county, so local knowledge is important. The court will set a hearing within thirty to forty-five days and will notify all relevant parties or agencies. Unless a party objects to the expungement, the court will grant it and issue a court order sealing the records. In the event there is an objection, there will be a hearing to determine if the request should be granted. To learn more about the expungement process in Oklahoma, reach out to our seasoned legal team at AMA Law.
Before a request for expungement can be filed, the individual must meet certain requirements. For example, those who were convicted of violent offenses such as murder, rape, or other felonies are not eligible to have their record sealed. Certain crimes, especially violent felonies, are not eligible for expungement under Oklahoma law, and having pending or prior felony charges can also affect your eligibility to clear your record.
Generally, a person is eligible to have a record expunged if no formal charges were filed, the case was dismissed or deferred, or they were found not guilty or pardoned. Individuals who received a deferred sentence may qualify for certain types of expungement, such as Section 991(c), which can update the case record to show dismissal, though it may not remove the arrest record itself. Pending charges are not able to be expunged. Someone may also be eligible for an expungement if:
Having a suspended sentence may impact your eligibility for expungement, so it is important to understand how this affects your case. Additionally, a pardon can restore certain civil rights, such as firearm rights, and may be relevant for those with prior convictions seeking to regain specific legal rights.
Consult our experienced expungement attorneys in Edmond to determine if your criminal history is eligible to be sealed. We offer expungement services for a flat fee, providing transparent and straightforward pricing.
Expungement offers life-changing benefits for individuals with a criminal record in Oklahoma, opening doors that may have previously been closed due to past mistakes. By having your record expunged, you can move forward with confidence, free from the limitations that a prior felony conviction or misdemeanor conviction can impose.
One of the most significant advantages of expungement is the improvement of employment opportunities. Many employers in Oklahoma City and throughout the state conduct background checks as part of the hiring process. A criminal record can be a major obstacle, often resulting in lost job offers or limited career advancement. With your record sealed through the expungement process, you can apply for jobs without the fear that your criminal history will hold you back, giving you a fair chance to compete in the job market.
Housing is another area where expungement can make a substantial difference. Landlords and property managers routinely check public court records and background reports before approving rental applications. A criminal conviction—even from years ago—can make it difficult to secure safe and stable housing. By working with a trusted expungement lawyer to clear your record, you can improve your chances of being approved for rentals or even qualifying for a mortgage, helping you and your family find a better place to live.
Expungement also enhances access to education and professional licensing. Many colleges, universities, and licensing boards in Oklahoma require background checks as part of their admissions or application processes. A criminal record can limit your eligibility for certain programs or professional credentials. By having your record expunged, you can pursue higher education and new career paths without unnecessary barriers.
Restoring civil rights is another crucial benefit of expungement. In Oklahoma, individuals with a felony conviction may lose important rights, such as the right to vote or own a firearm. Through the expungement process, you can restore these rights and fully participate in civic life, regaining your status as a full citizen.
Navigating the expungement process in Oklahoma requires careful attention to detail and a thorough understanding of Oklahoma expungement laws. The process involves filing a petition with the district court, notifying the arresting agency and the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI), and ensuring all legal paperwork is completed accurately. An experienced expungement attorney in Oklahoma City can guide you through each step, helping you avoid common pitfalls and ensuring your petition is handled efficiently.
Because expungement laws in Oklahoma are subject to change, it is essential to seek legal help from a law firm with a proven track record in expungement services. The law offices of a trusted expungement lawyer can provide up-to-date advice, answer your questions, and advocate for your best interests throughout the legal process.
Ultimately, expungement is about more than just clearing your record—it’s about giving you a fresh start and the opportunity to build a brighter future. With the support of an experienced expungement attorney, you can overcome the challenges of your past and pursue your goals with renewed confidence. If you are ready to take the first step toward a clean slate, contact a trusted expungement lawyer in Oklahoma City today for a free consultation and discover how expungement can help you reclaim your life.
We all make mistakes, but a criminal record could follow you for the rest of your life, causing obstacles in your personal and professional goals and relationships. If you are considering having your record expunged, hire an Edmond expungement lawyer to assist you.
While not all convictions are eligible for expungement, our knowledgeable criminal defense attorneys can review your case and advise you of your options. We are dedicated to helping our clients resolve their cases and will assist you through the entire expungement process. Contact AMA Law today to schedule your free and confidential consultation.