Bloomfield Hills Expungement Lawyer

Expungement is the legal process of removing a criminal conviction from your record after you have completed your sentence. Once an expungement is granted, you can legally answer questions on job and school applications as though the conviction never occurred. For individuals seeking a fresh start, expungement can be a vital step toward rebuilding their future. If you are considering clearing your record, contact a Bloomfield Hills expungement lawyer to evaluate your situation. A skilled attorney can determine your eligibility, guide you through the process, and prepare the necessary documents to maximize your chances of success.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for expungement in Michigan, an individual must meet specific requirements, including:

1. Completion of Sentencing: All sentencing requirements, including probation, fines, and restitution, must be fulfilled.
2. Waiting Period: At least five years must have passed since the completion of all sentencing requirements. An exception applies to prostitution charges related to human trafficking, which may be expunged without the five-year wait.
3. Limit on Convictions: A person’s record can include no more than one felony offense and two misdemeanor offenses.
   • If a felony is on the record, only the felony can be expunged.
   • If there are two misdemeanors, either or both may be eligible for expungement.

These are just the core requirements. The expungement statute is detailed and includes exceptions for specific circumstances. Expert assistance from a Bloomfield Hills expungement attorney is crucial to interpreting these requirements and determining eligibility.

Ineligible Offenses for Expungement

Certain offenses cannot be expunged under Michigan law, including:

• Crimes punishable by life in prison
• Human trafficking-related offenses
• Second-degree child abuse or child abuse in the presence of another child
• Traffic offenses, including DUI or OWI
• Criminal sexual conduct (rape or statutory rape) that occurred after January 12, 2015

The Expungement Process

The expungement process begins with completing an application form, gathering supporting documentation, and submitting the application to the appropriate government agencies. Key steps include:

1. Application Submission: Filing the completed form with the court and providing copies to necessary parties, such as the prosecutor and Michigan State Police.
2. Hearing Scheduling: Once the application is reviewed, a court hearing will be scheduled.
3. Outcome: If the expungement is granted, the conviction will be removed from public records. If denied, you must wait three years to reapply.

After an expungement is granted, the conviction will no longer appear on background checks, and individuals may lawfully answer questions about criminal history as though the offense never occurred.

The Importance of Legal Representation

Attempting to handle an expungement application without legal assistance is risky due to the complexity of eligibility requirements and the detailed nature of the process. A Bloomfield Hills expungement lawyer can:

• Ensure that the application is accurately completed and all necessary documents are submitted.
• Prevent delays caused by incomplete or incorrect filings.
• Present your case effectively at the hearing to increase the likelihood of a favorable outcome.

Having an experienced attorney by your side provides peace of mind and significantly improves your chances of clearing your record and moving forward with confidence.

Take the First Step Toward a Clean Slate

At Barone Defense Firm, we understand how a criminal conviction can impact your future opportunities. Our experienced expungement attorneys are here to guide you through the process, ensuring that every detail is handled with precision.

Call 248-306-9158 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation and take the first step toward clearing your record.

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