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New Jersey Expungement Attorney

Expungement Lawyer in Cherry Hill, NJ Helps Clients Seek Record Expungement in Burlington County, Camden County, Gloucester County, and Throughout NJ

If you have ever been convicted of a crime, you know what it feels like to anticipate getting your punishment over with and putting your mistake in the past. Completing your punishment or being released from incarceration can feel like a celebration—a fresh start. Unfortunately, you then quickly learn that you must disclose your criminal record at every turn—in applying for jobs, housing, school and more. But not all information on your criminal record is set in stone. Contact our New Jersey Expungement Attorney today for a free initial consultation.

Expungement is the legal process for clearing your record after you have completed punishment and a certain amount of time has passed. The Law Offices of Michele Finizio is here to help you through the expungement process so you can legally answer “no” when asked whether you have ever been convicted of a crime. 

With over 20 years of experience, the firm’s recognized New Jersey expungement attorney can help you get through the expungement process and avoid problems along the way. Not every crime is eligible for expungement—and not every case is clear cut. Having a strong lawyer by your side is always a good idea. The Law Offices of Michele Finizio will walk you through the eligibility requirements to determine whether you are eligible for an expungement. The firm can help you obtain an expungement for a conviction, arrest, or completion of a diversionary program.

To learn more about the firm and how an experienced New Jersey expungement attorney can help with your expungement, call or use this online contact form today.

To Learn How a Qualified South Jersey Expungement Attorney Can Help With Your Expungement, Call 856-888-9059 or Fill Out This Online Contact Form Today.

New Jersey Expungement Eligibility Criteria

New Jersey Expungement Attorney

Expungement eligibility in New Jersey is conditioned on two basic criteria: (1) the type of crime and (2) how much time has passed since you finished your punishment. There is no waiting period to have an arrest or outright dismissal removed from your record. Similarly, beginning in 2020, there is no waiting period for expunging conviction for simple possession of marijuana or drug paraphernalia. 

On the other hand, a conviction for some serious criminal offenses can never be removed from your record, including:

  • Arson
  • Endangering the welfare of a child
  • Death by auto
  • DUI/DWI
  • False imprisonment
  • Homicide, including murder and manslaughter
  • Kidnapping
  • Luring or enticing
  • Perjury
  • Robbery
  • Sexual assault

Both disorderly persons offenses (misdemeanors) and indictable crimes can be removed from your record. The applicable waiting period is typically five years if you have fewer convictions than set forth in the law. Below is a general summary of the rules:

  • You can have up to five disorderly persons offenses expunged after five years have passed, assuming you have no convictions of indictable crimes on your record
  • You can have up to three disorderly persons offenses and one (eligible) indictable crime expunged after five years have passed

However, under a new law passed in 2020, you can apply to have all eligible convictions removed from your record after ten years have passed since you finished punishment for the latest conviction. This is true even if you have more than one conviction for indictable crimes on your record. 

Trusted New Jersey Expungement Attorney Works to Smooth the Expungement Process for Clients Across New Jersey

The expungement process is complex and the rules governing expungement have changed significantly in recent years. Many clients have questions about whether enough time has passed in order to obtain an expungement. In general, the applicable “clock” begins to run as soon as you have completed all judicially imposed requirements. This may include:

  • Completing a jail or prison sentence
  • Paying fines or restitution
  • Completing community service
  • Completing a diversionary program, such as pre-trial intervention or conditional dismissal
  • Completing mental health or substance abuse counseling

Experienced New Jersey expungement attorney, Michele Finizio, is here to sit down with you and discuss how the requirements apply to your specific case. Detailed information is required to complete the expungement process, but the benefits are significant. Importantly, you can obtain the right to legally answer “no” when asked if you have been convicted of the expunged crime.

★★★★★

I can honestly say that I am 100% satisfied with the outcome of my case. Michael handled my case very well. I would definitely recommend her to anyone who needs help with any court issues.

Lelany J.

★★★★★

Very realistic and professional. Great with communication and prompt with follow ups. Flexible with availability, responds to both texts and phone calls. I was very happy with the service I received.

Jerilyn N.

★★★★★

Michele is an amazing attorney. She goes above and beyond to help. She answers her phone at all times of the day and is eager to get you the answers and give you the advice and representation you need. Don’t hesitate to use her services!!!!

J. L.

Contact The Law Offices of Michele Finizio to Discuss Your Expungement Rights Today

Michele Finizio is here to help you get the fresh start you need. The expungement lawyer in Cherry Hill, NJ at the Law Offices of Michele Finizio understands that a criminal record can impose significant limitations on your life. Our experienced New Jersey expungement attorney will form the best possible arguments to support your right to a clean slate. Call or contact the firm today for a free initial consultation to discuss options to help get your life back on track.

Get A Free Consultation With An Experienced New Jersey Criminal Defense Attorney. All You Have To Do Is Call 856-888-9059 Or Fill Out Our Online Contact Form.

Frequently Asked Questions About the New Jersey Expungement Law

Why do I need an expungement if I was never convicted of the crime? 

The record of your arrest will remain on your criminal record. Even though you technically can answer “no” when asked if you have been convicted of a crime (on a job application, for example), many potential employers and landlords conduct a criminal background check. Having the record of your arrest expunged can help you avoid embarrassment and questions in the future. The same is true if you participated in a diversionary program, such as pre-trial intervention.

How does the expungement process actually work? 

Getting your record expunged is a complex process that requires a significant amount of paperwork. After gathering all of the documents related to your conviction, we prepare a petition for expungement that is presented to the court. There may be a hearing where we will advocate on your behalf—and the state has the right to object to the expungement. Assuming everything goes smoothly and the expungement order is granted, we then will work to serve the paperwork on all relevant agencies that will actually do the work of removing your criminal history from public records.

What is the New Jersey clean slate law? 

The clean slate law is a new law that expands the expungement rules. The goal is to allow more people to get a fresh start. After ten years have passed, you can have any eligible conviction expunged. Certain drug offenses also receive more liberal treatment beginning in 2020. The law also directs the state to develop a program to process expungements online and more quickly, although the details remain unclear.

Reviews Matter

*Results may vary depending on your particular facts and legal circumstances.

"I am extremely grateful for the exceptional legal services provided by my lawyer (Michele Finizio) in handling my charges. Their expertise and dedication played a pivotal role in achieving positive outcomes for my case. Very Grateful.”
- Enrique R.

“Had a case and hired the team. Recieved a better outcome than anticipated. The process was smooth and relaxed. Definitely recommend! Thank you everyone!”
- Yashar E.

"I was facing some serious charges and Michele and Kevin made me feel comfortable and at ease throughout the whole process. Very professional, understanding, courteous, and diligent. Michele’s firm was highly recommended to me by a friend who has used her a few times. 10/10 highly recommend. Thank you so much Michele and Kevin!!!!"
- Samantha O.

“I highly recommend this law firm. They were easy to contact and very knowledgeable. I will definitely work with them again.”
- Stevey M.
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