Free Consultation: (504) 389-1959
What Is An Expungement?
When you get arrested / convicted for a crime there is a record of the arrest and conviction kept in a variety of public databases. A Louisiana expungement is the process of removing your arrest and or conviction record from these public databases. This is particularly helpful when you are trying to get a job, clean up your driving record, clean up your reputation, rent an apartment and many other reasons. Basically you are getting a clean slate! One thing to keep in mind is that expungement is not an automatic process done by the courts. You must meet certain requirements and file the correct paperwork / motions or you will likely get denied and have to pay the submission fee again.
Why do I need an expungement?
To be honest there are countless reasons why you should get your criminal record expunged. The first and foremost is employment. After your expungement you will be legally allowed to say that you have never been arrested or convicted of that crime. This many make a huge difference in whether you get the job or not. Criminal history is a huge factor for employers its easy for them to hire the person that doesn’t have a record.
Another good reason is when you apply for a loan or attempt to purchase certain types of insurance they will usually do a background check for any arrests or convictions.
Thinking about going to college? Many colleges conduct background checks before granting admission to students.
Another great reason for an expungement is to clean your traffic record. Imagine getting a speeding ticket going over one hundred miles per hour. That will most likely increase your insurances rates to the stratosphere! Getting that conviction expunged would clear your record.
Finally the best reason to get an expungement is to do it just for you. Knowing that you have a clean slate and did the very best you could do to improve yourself. There is nothing better than self improvement.
Who can see my record after an expungement?
There are several state agencies that can see your expungement record in a confidential manner. Which include the following:
- Louisiana State Board of Examiners of Psychologists
- Louisiana State Board of Social Work Examiners
- Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners
- Louisiana State Board of Nursing
- Louisiana State Board of Dentistry
- Louisiana Attorney Disciplinary Board
- Emergency Medical Services Certification Commission
- Office of Disciplinary Counsel
- Louisiana Supreme Court Committee on Bar Admissions
Also, anyone requesting a record of all criminal arrests and convictions pursuant to La R.S. 15:587.1.
How Do I Know If I Am Eligible for Expungement in Louisiana?
Expungement law in Louisiana can be quite complex and I would definitely recommend consulting with an attorney but here are a few instances where expungements are generally allowed. You can call me at (504) 389-1959 or click here to email me to determine whether you are eligible in your specific situation.
- 893/894 plea with deferred sentence after successful completion of probation.
- Case dismissed, acquitted, Da refused to prosecute or motion to quash granted.
- Successfully completed pretrial diversion. (Different rules for DWI’s)
- Not prosecuted within the requisite amount of time.
- The passage of time after certain misdemeanors (5 years), and felonies (10 years).
If you have a different situation you still may be eligible for an expungement. Click here to email me or call me at (504) 389-1959.
Can DWI arrests / convictions be expunged in Louisiana?
Yes DWI arrests & convictions can be expunged in Louisiana under certain circumstances.
What is the cost of an expungement in Louisiana?
There are two expenses when dealing with expungements. First you will be required to pay the court a processing fee which is $550 for felony or misdemeanor cases and $600 for DWI expungements. Second, if you decide to hire an attorney to handle the expungement you will be required to pay them a fee for their time and expertise.
How to get started with your expungement?
Getting started is easy! Just give me a call at (504) 389-1959 or click here to email me and we can discuss your case.