About Expungement
Expungement is the legal procedure used to destroy or seal the records of a case. The exact definition of expungement varies greatly among states.
Each state offers different types of record clearing or expungement relief, and each of those legal procedures can use different terminology and have different effects on the criminal record.
Examples of record clearing services include: expungement, record sealing, setting aside a conviction, vacating a conviction, and orders of non-disclosure.
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The Expungement Process
The process, much like the laws and terminology, differs widely among states. The process will generally involve initial research to obtain the court documents, which will contain the information required on the expungement petition. That information is then included in the application or petition, which is filed, along with any supporting documents required by the court, in the county in which the case occurred.
The petition is usually also submitted to the district attorney or prosecutor’s office for their review; they are provided time to review and respond to the petition. Once the court receives the petition, they will either set a hearing date or submit the petition to the judge for a decision to be made.
The timeframe for the entire expungement process also differs from court to court, ranging anywhere from 2-6 months on average. To get a more accurate estimate on how long your expungement may take, please take our confidential eligibility test and review the information on the service for which you are eligible.
Effects of an Expungement
After your arrest or conviction is expunged, sealed, set aside, or vacated, you can feel more confident applying for jobs or housing. The law varies from state to state, but generally, you do not have to disclose your expunged conviction when applying for a job, to a school, or for housing. An expungement is a great way to put your past behind you and open up many opportunities, allowing you to focus on the future.
Depending on the laws in your state, the arrest may remain on your record and appear on higher-level background checks that require fingerprinting; in those instances, the case would appear as dismissed, because the conviction (finding of guilt) has been removed from your record.
In other states, an expungement is a complete removal of the case from your criminal record and the records of the case are destroyed. Background checks that search for convictions (the type performed by many employers) normally will not reveal an expunged case, because the case has either been completely removed from your record or because it is no longer considered a conviction
Can I Get an Expungement?
Eligibility requirements for expungement vary widely among states. However, some felony and misdemeanor offenses that may be eligible to be expunged
WHY CHOOSE
Social Justice Solutions (SJS) is dedicated to empowering individuals by providing practical solutions for social justice. We offer comprehensive expungement services, re-entry support programs, and social service hubs throughout the city and county. In addition, SJS provides estate planning, real estate, and contract services to help individuals build stable and secure lives. Through a network of accessible and inclusive community clinics, our mission is to help people overcome legal challenges, reclaim their lives, and contribute positively to their communities.
At Social Justice Solutions, we believe that everyone deserves a fair chance at a better life. Through our innovative programs and legal services, we are here to stand by your side, fight for your rights, and help you build a future filled with opportunity.
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OUR HAPPY CUSTOMERS
"I never thought I could move past my criminal record, but Social Justice Solutions (SJS) gave me a second chance. Their expungement services were easy to navigate, and the team walked me through every step of the process. Now, I'm able to apply for jobs with confidence and have a fresh start. SJS truly changed my life, and I am forever grateful for their support."
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John S. - Expungement Client
"Planning for the future can be overwhelming, but the team at Social Justice Solutions made estate planning straightforward and stress-free. They listened to my concerns, explained everything in simple terms, and helped me create a will that ensures my family will be taken care of. I now have peace of mind knowing that my affairs are in order. I highly recommend SJS to anyone who needs help with estate planning."
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Sheila T. - Estate Planning Client
"Social Justice Solutions helped me with a real estate transaction that was crucial to my family’s stability. Their legal advice and guidance ensured that everything went smoothly. The team was professional, caring, and attentive to every detail. I can’t thank them enough for making a potentially stressful situation so much easier."
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Brian K. - Real Estate Client
"After my release, I felt lost and unsure of how to rebuild my life. That’s when I found SJS. Their re-entry support program not only helped me find stable housing and employment, but they also connected me with counseling and training programs. Thanks to SJS, I am now on a path to success and feel more hopeful about my future. They are an incredible resource for anyone trying to reclaim their life."
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Maria G. - Re-Entry Program Participant
"After serving time, I struggled to find employment and housing. SJS gave me the support I needed through their re-entry program. They helped me develop job skills, provided resume assistance, and even connected me with potential employers. Now I’m employed and stable, and I feel like I’ve truly been given a second chance. I wouldn’t be where I am today without their help."
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Samuel P. - Re-Entry Program Success Story
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Frequently Asked Questions
At Social Justice Solutions (SJS), we offer a wide range of services focused on empowering individuals and addressing social justice challenges. Our services include:
- Expungement Services: Helping individuals clear their criminal records where applicable.
- Re-Entry Support Programs: Assisting individuals reintegrating into society post-incarceration, including support for employment and housing.
- Social Service Hubs: Providing access to essential community services throughout the city and county.
- Estate Planning: Helping individuals create wills, trusts, and manage other estate-related matters.
- Real Estate Services: Offering guidance on real estate transactions to help secure stable living conditions.
- Contract Services: Assisting with legal contracts to ensure individuals are protected in their personal and professional lives.
Our mission is to empower individuals by providing practical solutions for social justice issues. We aim to help people overcome legal challenges, reclaim their lives, and contribute positively to their communities. Whether it’s through expungement services, re-entry support, or legal assistance, we are committed to making a difference in the lives of those we serve.
You can start the process by contacting us at (561) 288-0117 or through our website. We will review your case to determine eligibility based on local laws and guide you through the steps of filing an expungement application.
An expungement is a legal process that allows certain criminal records to be sealed or erased, making it easier for individuals to move forward with their lives. Eligibility for expungement depends on various factors, including the type of offense, how long ago it occurred, and the laws in your jurisdiction. Our team will work with you to determine your eligibility and navigate the legal process.
Our Re-Entry Support Programs offer a variety of resources to help individuals transitioning back into society after incarceration. This includes:
- Job placement assistance
- Housing support
- Access to education and vocational training
- Counseling and social services
We work with a network of community organizations to provide comprehensive support tailored to each individual's needs.
Our social service hubs are located throughout the city and county to ensure accessibility to all. You can visit our website or contact us at (561) 288-0117 to find the hub nearest you. At the hub, you can access a wide range of services, including health care, legal aid, employment resources, and more.
SJS provides a range of estate planning services, including:
- Wills and trusts: Ensuring that your assets are distributed according to your wishes.
- Power of attorney: Assigning someone to make important decisions on your behalf if you are unable to do so.
- Health care directives: Outlining your preferences for medical care in case you become incapacitated.
Our goal is to help you secure your future and the future of your loved ones by offering comprehensive estate planning guidance.
We offer legal support and guidance on various real estate transactions, including buying, selling, or leasing property. Our services are designed to ensure that individuals have the resources and knowledge needed to make informed decisions about real estate, whether it’s for personal or investment purposes.
Our contract services assist individuals in creating, reviewing, and understanding legal contracts. Whether it’s a business agreement, rental contract, or any other legal document, we help ensure that you are protected and aware of your rights and obligations. Anyone who needs assistance with legal agreements can benefit from these services.
The cost of our services varies depending on the complexity and nature of the service. We strive to make our services as accessible as possible by offering affordable pricing and, in some cases, sliding-scale fees based on income. Contact us at (561) 288-0117 to discuss your needs and receive a quote.
Yes, some of our services are offered at no cost or on a sliding scale, particularly through our social service hubs and community clinics. We work with various organizations to provide accessible services to individuals who may not have the financial means to pay for legal or social support.
You can schedule a consultation by contacting us at (561) 288-0117 or through our website. We offer in-person consultations at our community clinics and hubs, as well as virtual consultations for those who cannot visit in person.
Yes! We welcome volunteers and donations to help us further our mission. If you are interested in supporting SJS, please contact us at (561) 288-0117 to get more about how you can get involved.
Our community clinics and social service hubs are located throughout the city and county to ensure accessibility. For a full list of locations and services available at each hub, please visit our website or call us at (561) 288-0117.
We take your privacy and security seriously. All personal information you provide to SJS is kept confidential and is protected in accordance with our Privacy Policy. We employ industry-standard security measures to safeguard your data from unauthorized access or breaches.