A criminal record tends to hang over you like a dark cloud. Even after your sentence and terms of your conviction have been met in the state of Michigan, you still experience negative impacts due to this past conviction. In order to gain better control of your future, you seek to leave the past far behind you. And in order for the past to no longer impact the future, seeking an expungement might be your best option.
Expungement basics
At Debruin Law, PLLC, our law firm understands the impact a criminal conviction can have on a person’s life. Thus, our legal team is dedicated to helping our clients fully understand their options and rights when it comes to seeking an expungement.
In simple terms, an expungement is the complete removal of a criminal conviction from your record. While an expungement would result in a clear record for anyone that may view it, it is important to note that the court will maintain a nonpublic record of your conviction on file.
Having past conviction removed from your record holds many benefits; however, only certain misdemeanors and felonies qualify for an expungement. Thus, it is important to understand if you are even eligible for an expungement.
Eligibility
Previously, only those with a single conviction or no more than two minor offenses were eligible for expungement. Now, due to the law’s amendment in 2015, one is eligible if they have no more than one felony conviction and two misdemeanor convictions. If you spent time in jail or prison, five years must have passed since your release before you can seek a conviction expungement.
It should be noted that there are some restrictions that would make a person ineligible. This includes, but is not limited to, crimes with a maximum sentence of life in prison even when sentenced for less time, Michigan traffic tickets and sex crimes, including attempted.
Whether you are facing charges, were just convicted or have served your time, it is important to be aware of your options for expungement now and in the future. A legal professional can help guide you through the process and answer any questions you might have.