The effects of a criminal conviction can reach far beyond the courtroom. Even after you have completed the terms of your sentence, you may continue to be haunted by your record. You could be prevented from owning a firearm or be denied a license to practice your trade.
At my Wenatchee-based firm, I assist those seeking to clear (expunge) their criminal records. I am well versed in the many nuances of this area of the law and can help you vacate a variety of convictions, from misdemeanors to felonies.
Post-Conviction Remedies
When you contact my law office, I will conduct a thorough evaluation of your case and discuss the options that may be available to you. Depending upon the nature of your offense(s), there may be more than one way to achieve a clean slate. This may involve sealing and destroying court records, vacating convictions or deleting criminal history records.
It is important however, that you speak with an experienced lawyer as soon as possible regarding expungement. After a certain period of time, you may be unable to remove past convictions. Also, new offenses could preclude you from vacating prior convictions.
Removal of Non-Conviction Data
The Washington state patrol maintains a database of arrests, as well as of dismissed and amended charges. Insurance companies and employers can view this database and access your criminal record.
Even if you have never been convicted of a crime — or even charged — viewers of the database may claim that you have a "history." This can impact your life in any number of ways. For example, you may:
- Have difficulty obtaining employment or finding housing
- Be seen unfavorably by law enforcement, prosecutors and judges should you ever face criminal allegations
- Be awarded higher insurance premiums (if say, you were accused of driving while intoxicated)
Clearing (Expungement) of Your Criminal Records: Let a Chelan County Attorney Help You
If you have ever been arrested or convicted, it is prudent to view your criminal history and attempt to have your (alleged) offenses vacated (expunged). As a long-time Wenatchee criminal history (expungement) attorney, I am familiar with the processes involved and can assist you in clearing your record. Contact my firm today for a free consultation.