How do I go about getting a misdomeanor charge expunged?

Question

I have a misdomeanor harassment charge on my record and I would like to have it expunged. How do I go about doing this and how much would it probably cost?

Answer 1

fill out expungement packet at the government center's "self help" area. they may have a video there that walks you through it. you may need letters of reference and a list of reasons why you need it expunged. some reasons may be that it is hindering your job search due to the criminal record that shows up during background checks, or that you have trouble renting an apartment for that reason as well. then some counties want you to write a letter explaining that the one conviction that blemishes your record was an aberration and a mistake that you will never repeat. if your record is otherwise clean and enough time has passed with no new offenses, then the judge may see fit to expunge that case, meaning seal the records so they cannot be pulled up on a county record search. keep in mind that a district court judge can only seal / expunge the county records, they have no authority to lock up the state BCA or the police records, so if anyone checks your criminal history via the police or bureau of criminal apprehension, the county court expungement will not have sealed those records.
good luck!

Answer 2

Depending on the state, contact your division of criminal justice. Best bet, go to the court you were convicted at. Ask them. If it has been a while since your arrest and you have turned your life around, most states, (I know NY does) will allow you to petition to have it sealed. Try an internet seqrch on sealed records. There are organizations that tell you how to do it and provide form letters.

Answer 3

Petition the Court, forms at the Clerks Office! Submit the form, Pro-Se [meaning you represent yourself] and eliminate the Lawyer fee! Also help at the courthouse, free legal advice two days a week in most localities.

Thanks, RR