In Pennsylvania, felony convictions can carry significant and long-term consequences, affecting various aspects of life. Having a criminal record can impact your housing options, employment opportunities, and more. However, the possibility of having a felony expunged from your record can help counteract these issues. The expungement process is stricter in Pennsylvania than in many other states. Continue reading to learn whether or not your charges can be expunged and work with a York County, PA expungement lawyer during your case.
What is Expungement?
Expungement is the legal process of removing a criminal record, making it inaccessible to the general public. Every state has its own definition, but in Pennsylvania, expungement effectively erases the legal record of the conviction. This process allows individuals to live their lives without the burden of a criminal record affecting their opportunities.
Can a Felony Conviction Be Expunged in Pennsylvania?
Felonies can be expunged in Pennsylvania under rare circumstances. There are only two scenarios in which a felony can be expunged without intervention from a higher authority. If a minor was charged with a juvenile felony, they may be able to have all records of the charge expunged when they turn 18 or after 5 years with no criminal conduct.
Additionally, individuals over the age of 70 can have their felony expunged if they have not engaged in criminal conduct in the last 10 years. Situations outside of these scenarios are more complex.
Unless you were charged as a juvenile or are over the age of 70 you cannot have your felony expunged. However, there are other ways to make your records inaccessible.
What is Sealing?
Although your felony may not be eligible for expungement, it may be eligible for sealing. A sealed record is not accessible to the public and will not appear on most background checks. The information is not erased, but it is concealed. This can be beneficial as employers, landlords, schools, and certain licensing agencies will not be able to see your records when performing a background check. This means that your criminal history will not influence your opportunities and future.
Can I Be Pardoned?
Another way that your felony can be removed without expungement is by being pardoned. Pardons offer convicted individuals a way to have their criminal behavior officially forgiven. The Pennsylvania Board of Pardons can have all records of your arrest, charges, and conviction erased from your criminal record.
The process can take years and involves multiple votes from the Board of Pardons and a final decision from the Pennsylvania governor. Although expungement is not offered widely for felony convictions, individuals have various options when attempting to move on after serving their time. Reach out to a skilled defense attorney during your case and ask them about your options regarding expungement, sealing, and pardoning.
