A criminal record can hold you back from job opportunities, housing applications, and certain rights. But what if you could erase that past mistake? In North Carolina, expungement offers a legal way to clear eligible criminal records, giving you a fresh start. Unlike record sealing, which only hides records from public access, an expungement effectively erases the record as if the offense never happened.

At Schlosser & Pritchett, we understand how important a second chance is and are committed to helping you achieve it. Call our Greensboro, North Carolina criminal defense attorneys to schedule a consultation and find out how we can help.

Am I Eligible for Expungement in Greensboro, North Carolina?

North Carolina law allows for the expungement of certain criminal records, but eligibility depends on several factors, including:

• You were charged but not convicted: Arrests and dismissed charges can be expunged, regardless of your age.
• You were convicted of a non-violent misdemeanor or felony: Depending on the charge, you may be eligible after a set waiting period.
• You were under 18 at the time of the offense: Certain convictions, such as underage alcohol offenses, can be cleared.
• Your conviction is eligible under recent legal changes: North Carolina laws have expanded expungement eligibility, including for multiple dismissed charges and non-violent offenses.

What Criminal Records Cannot Be Expunged?

You cannot expunge the following:

• Violent felonies: Any crime involving serious bodily injury, weapons offenses, or harm to another person cannot be erased.
• Sex offenses: Convictions related to sexual assault, child exploitation, or related crimes are not eligible.
• DWI/DUI convictions: Unlike some states, North Carolina does not allow expungement for driving while impaired (DWI) or driving under the influence (DUI).

How Long Do I Have to Wait Before Applying for Expungement?

The waiting period for expungement in North Carolina varies depending on the type of record you want to clear.

• Arrests and dismissed charges: No waiting period; you can apply immediately.
• Non-violent misdemeanors: 5-year waiting period from the date of conviction.
• Non-violent felonies: 10-year waiting period from the date of conviction.
• Multiple dismissed charges or not guilty verdicts: Immediate expungement is possible under recent law changes.

What Is the Process for Filing an Expungement?

• Obtain Your Criminal Records: You’ll need a copy of your conviction or arrest records from the court where your case was handled.
• File a Petition: The specific petition form depends on your type of case. This document must be filed in the appropriate county court.
• Court Review & Possible Hearing: A judge will review your request. In some cases, a court hearing may be required.
• Approval and Expungement Order: If approved, the court will issue an order to remove the record from state databases.

The entire process can take several months, depending on court schedules and case complexity.

Seek Legal Help from a Greensboro, NC Criminal Defense Lawyer

Expungement laws in North Carolina can be difficult to understand, and the process requires precision. At Schlosser & Pritchett, we work aggressively on your behalf, ensuring your case is presented in the best possible light to maximize your chances of approval. Our defense attorneys don’t take a one-size-fits-all approach. We thoroughly analyze your case, ensuring that every possible legal avenue is explored.

If you’re ready for a fresh start, don’t go through this alone. Let our experienced defense lawyers guide you through the expungement process. Call (336) 292-4076 or reach out online to take the first step toward clearing your record.