Criminal Record Expungement Services in New Jersey

Expunging a criminal record in New Jersey can be complex, but with the right legal support, it’s possible to move forward with a clean slate. At Shugar Law Office, our experienced expungement lawyers help clients understand their options and guide them through every step of the expungement process.

With over 60 years of combined legal experience, our team is equipped to handle a wide range of expungement cases across New Jersey. We provide strategic, results-driven representation to help individuals clear their criminal records and reclaim their future. If you’re looking to remove a past offense from your record, our attorneys are here to fight for the outcome you deserve.

Understanding Criminal Record Expungement

Criminal record expungement is a legal process that removes an arrest, conviction, or criminal charge from public records, which helps individuals move forward in life without unnecessary roadblocks. Once an expungement lawyer successfully files a petition, the judge may grant them a clean slate by erasing the record from public view.

However, some records may still be accessible to law enforcement agencies such as the New Jersey State Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. A successful expungement allows people to legally deny the existence of a past misdemeanor, felony, or other offenses when applying for employment, housing, or immigration benefits.

What Kinds of Crimes Can Be Expunged?

Expungement eligibility depends on factors such as the severity of the crime, the statute of limitations, and the criminal procedure followed in the case. Many non-violent offenses, such as shoplifting, disorderly conduct, and theft, are often eligible for removal.

Some jurisdictions permit the expungement of certain felonies, including burglary, fraud, and drug possession, especially if the offender completed a diversion program or probation successfully. However, violent crimes like murder, aggravated sexual assault, and vehicular homicide are generally not eligible due to their extreme and serious nature. It’s also worth noting that offenses related to child custody disputes, domestic violence, and perjury can remain on record due to their legal and social impact.

Criminal Record Expungement’s Wide-Reaching Benefits

• Expanded Employment Opportunities – Many employers require a background check, and a criminal record can be a major obstacle when applying for jobs. An expungement attorney can help remove this barrier and allows individuals to pursue careers without past mistakes affecting their future.
• Higher Education and Financial Aid Access – Some colleges consider an applicant’s criminal record when making admission decisions. Some convictions, such as drug offenses, can disqualify students from receiving federal loan assistance. Expungement clears this history and improves one’s access to scholarships, grants, and tuition aid.
• Improved Housing Prospects – A landlord may deny a rental application based on an applicant’s criminal record, particularly for offenses such as arson, robbery, or battery. Expungement makes it easier to secure safe and stable housing without such discrimination.
• Restored Civil Rights – Certain convictions can lead to the loss of rights, including voting, firearm ownership, and professional license eligibility. Expungement or a pardon restores these privileges and helps individuals reintegrate back into society.
• Increased Financial Stability – Many insurance providers charge higher rates or deny coverage to individuals with a past criminal charge. Expungement can lead to better financial opportunities, including access to better payment terms and lower costs for necessities like health coverage and car insurance.
• Peace of Mind and Personal Growth – Carrying the burden of a criminal record can lead to fear, stress, and social stigma. Expungement eliminates these worries and allows individuals to move forward in life with greater confidence. Moreover, those who have participated in corrections or drug court programs can finally break free from their past and focus on a more positive future.

How a Criminal Record Expungement Attorney Will Help

• Assessing Eligibility and Legal Options – A criminal record expungement lawyer from our firm will review your case’s history while considering factors such as the statute, the burden of proof, and whether the docket contains offenses that qualify for expungement. An experienced criminal defense lawyer from Shugar Law Office will provide you with greater clarity on available legal remedies.
• Handling Complex Paperwork and Filing Requirements – The criminal justice system requires accurate paperwork, from court documents to filing fees. Our law firm specializes in expungement and will handle all necessary submissions to prevent errors and accidents that could delay the process.
• Representing Clients in Court – If an indictment resulted in a jury trial, a hearing may be necessary to convince a judge or district attorney that the record should be sealed. A felony expungement lawyer can prepare legal arguments and raise the chances of a more favorable verdict.
• Overcoming Prosecutorial Challenges – The prosecutor or district attorney may oppose an expungement request and argue that the criminal record should remain due to the nature of the offense. A defense attorney from our firm can counter these objections and advocate for your right to a second chance.

Why Choose Shugar Law Office?

• Aggressive Representation in Court and Negotiations – In both settlement discussions and courtroom proceedings, we vigorously defend your rights and help you achieve the most favorable resolution for your case.
• Personalized Legal Strategies for Your Specific Situation – Every case presents unique challenges, which is why we develop customized defense strategies that align with your unique circumstances and legal needs.
• Proven Success in Criminal Defense Cases – With extensive experience handling a wide range of charges, our skilled legal team has consistently secured positive outcomes in even the most challenging legal matters.

Our Legal Services:

• Traffic Tickets
• License Suspension
• Careless Driving Charges
• Texting While Driving Charges
• Drug Possession
• DWI
• Domestic Violence
• Assault Charges
• Sexual Assault Charges

Take Action Today – Schedule a Free Consultation

If you need to speak with an experienced expungement attorney, Shugar Law Office is here to help. Don’t hesitate to reach out today to schedule a consultation and learn about our other legal services.