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Expungement

Looking for Expungement?
Albers & Associates Can Help.

If you have a criminal record, the pressure of your previous actions is likely weighing on you in a variety of areas in your life, depending on what you were charged with. Even if you weren’t convicted, there is still a record of your charges and potential employers, leasing agents, and other authority figures may take issue with this. Thankfully, there are many instances where you can get your records expunged.

Getting your records expunged isn't always easy, but it can be done

What is Expungement?

To expunge your records is to destroy them completely so that they cannot be read or seen by anyone ever again. In some instances, courts can seal your records, which may seem similar. However, sealed records can be opened again and thus, it’s not always the best option for your future. That being said, sometimes having your records sealed is better than leaving them out in the open. It’s best to talk it over with your lawyer to determine the best path of action.

Which Crimes are Eligible for Expungement?

Not all charges can be expunged, but there are several circumstances where expungement is possible:

  • You were acquitted.
  • The case was dismissed.
  • You got a Probation Before Judgment (PBJ).
  • The prosecution entered a “Nolle Prosequi”, which means that they decided to drop the case before the trial or in the midst of it.
  • Your case was indefinitely postponed in a stet docket.
  • Your case was moved to juvenile court.
  • You were found Not Criminally Responsible for a variety of crimes including loitering, vagrancy, and disturbing the peace.
  • The law has changed and your previous crime is no longer a criminal offense.

What If I Was Found Guilty?

If you were convicted of the crime you’re looking to get expunged, then you will have to wait a certain number of years before you can apply to have the record(s) expunged. For example, if you were convicted of possession of a controlled substance, then you will need to wait 10 years after the satisfactory completion of the sentence (including probation) or conviction, whichever was more recent. The time that you need to wait and the types of charges you can get expunged vary, but you can get a complete look here.

Can I Get a DUI Expunged?

If your case matches any of the circumstances above, then you may be able to get your DUI expunged. However, if you were convicted, then that DUI is with you forever. Because of the escalating nature of repeat offenses, DUI’s must remain on the record. In the event that you got a Probation Before Judgment, you can get it expunged if, and only if, you do not offend again within 3 years.

What’s the First Step?

For now, your best course of action is to call on a professional lawyer to help you navigate the complexity of getting your charges expunged. The experts at Albers & Associates will work to fully understand the details of your case, which will enable us to determine whether or not your charges are eligible for expungement with the greatest amount of success. Contact us today to set up a free consultation and to learn more about how we can assist with getting your charges expunged.

Criminal Defense FAQs

Can I Appeal My Criminal Case?

If your case was tried in the District Court of Maryland, you do have the right to an appeal which would result in a brand new trial that doesn’t regard the findings of the initial court that tried your case. You have 30 days from the date of sentencing to appeal a case.

Will the State Appoint Me a Defense Attorney?

You may choose to accept legal assistance from a state-appointed lawyer during your trial. However, working with a criminal defense attorney at Albers & Associates means you’ll receive more personalized and dedicated care from a lawyer who is dedicated to aggressively pursuing the best outcome possible for every client they work with.

Why Do I Need a Criminal Defense Attorney for a DUI?

Maryland is one of the states in the U.S. That assesses both administrative and criminal penalties when someone is charged with a DUI. This means that fines, license suspension, and imprisonment are all commonly assessed when a driver has been caught doing so under the influence. The MVA handles most of the administrative charges, but a criminal defense lawyer is necessary if you want to avoid harsher penalties for the criminal charges.