Understanding Expungement: Sealing Your Criminal Record for a Fresh Start

In the context of criminal records, expungement refers to the process of sealing or erasing a person's criminal record, so that it is no longer visible or accessible to the public. This means that any records of the person's conviction, charges, or other criminal activity are removed from public view and are not available for employers, landlords, or other third parties to see.

Expungement is typically granted in cases where the person has completed a sentence, paid any fines or restitution, and has demonstrated good behavior over a certain period of time. The purpose of expungement is to give people a fresh start and to help them move on from their past mistakes, without the stigma of a criminal record holding them back.

It's important to note that not all crimes are eligible for expungement, and the specific laws and procedures for expungement vary by state. Additionally, even if a person's record is expunged, it may still be accessible to law enforcement agencies and other government entities for certain purposes.