The current coronavirus pandemic has caused New Jersey’s unemployment claims to skyrocket over 2,000%. In just one week, over 150,000 citizens collectively filed for benefits. Were you one of them?
Even if you didn’t lose your job during this unprecedented time, you’ve likely been ordered to remain at home unless you need to get out for necessities or to work at an essential job. If you’re looking for something positive to do with your time, then consider making your criminal record disappear by applying for an expungement in New Jersey.
Eligibility for Expungement in NJ
An expungement order happens when a courtroom in New Jersey tells law enforcement agencies to erase their records regarding your former conviction, however, there are exceptions to which crimes can be expunged: If you were charged with the following crimes, then you won’t be able to expunge them:
- DUI
- Kidnapping or false imprisonment
- Aggravated sexual assault
- Endangering the welfare of a child
- Criminal sexual contact with a minor
- Robbery
- Homicide
- Distribution of a controlled substance (first or second-degree). Click the link for more information on the sale of a controlled substance in New Jersey.
Most other crimes are eligible to get removed from your record after a waiting period of five to six years. You’ll be eligible to apply for expungement when you’ve completed your sentence and waited out the allotted time for your crime.
What to Expect During the Expungement Process
If you think you’re eligible to have your record expunged, then it’s advised you reach out to an attorney’s office. While the majority of New Jersey citizens are at-home, there’s a lot an attorney can still do for you as we wait out this crisis.
First, an attorney will direct you to the proper expungement petition forms that you’ll need to complete. You can print these forms out at your home, and then return them to your attorney’s office. From there, your attorney will help you send your information to your local courtroom.
Many trials have been delayed during this national emergency. As a result, courtroom employees have more time devoted to tasks like expungement requests. If the court doesn’t think you need to have a hearing over your expungement, then they’re likely to grant your petition right away. They’ll draft up an expungement order and send it over to your attorney’s office.
Contact an Experienced Trenton Criminal Defense Attorney About Your Expungement in New Jersey
Have you been charged with a crime in New Jersey? The criminal defense lawyers at the Davis Law Firm, LLC represent clients charged with a crime in Trenton, East Windsor, West Windsor, Hopewell and help them with their expungements. Call 609-587-9100 or fill out our confidential online contact form to schedule a consultation about your case. We have an office located at 2653 Nottingham Way, Hamilton Township, NJ 08619.
The articles on this blog are for informative purposes only and are no substitute for legal advice or an attorney-client relationship. If you are seeking legal advice, please contact our law firm directly.
