A past mistake shouldn’t be a permanent roadblock to your future. Whether it is a youthful indiscretion or a lapse in judgment, a criminal record can close doors to employment, housing, and educational opportunities. Fortunately, New Jersey law provides a legal pathway to a fresh start through a process known as expungement.
At Fetky & Petty, LLC, we know that many people overcome criminal charges and rebuild their lives. Here is what you need to know about the expungement process in New Jersey and how it can help you move forward.
What is an Expungement?
In New Jersey, an expungement is a legal order that extracts and isolates records of an arrest, conviction, or related proceedings from public view. If your record is successfully expunged, it is as if the event never occurred in the eyes of the general public. When filling out most job applications or background checks, you can legally answer “no” when asked if you have been arrested or convicted of a crime.
What Types of Records Can Be Expunged in NJ?
Not all offenses are eligible, but New Jersey has expanded its expungement laws in recent years to give more people a second chance. While severe crimes of violence are generally not eligible, many other offenses can be cleared, including:
- Municipal Court Offenses: These are the catch-all for minor crimes and violations, including disorderly person offenses like shoplifting.
- Minor Drug Offenses: Arrests for minor drug possession or possession of drug paraphernalia.
- Arrests Not Resulting in Conviction: If you were arrested but the charges were dismissed, you are generally eligible to have the arrest record expunged.
- Juvenile Offenses: Mistakes made as a minor shouldn’t follow you into adulthood.
Why You Need Local Legal Experience
The expungement petition process requires gathering highly specific documents, filing them correctly in the appropriate county, and serving notice to various law enforcement agencies. Any error can result in a rejection and a lengthy delay.
New Brunswick and Middlesex County courts have specific procedures. Having a legal team that knows these local nuances can help streamline the process. At Fetky & Petty, LLC, our criminal defense attorneys have over 45 years of combined experience navigating the New Jersey justice system. We understand the paperwork, the timelines, and exactly what the courts are looking for to grant an expungement.
Take the First Step Toward a Clean Slate
Don’t let a past run-in with the law define the rest of your life. If you are interested in exploring your eligibility for an expungement, we are here to help.
To schedule a meeting with an attorney, please call our New Brunswick office at (732) 545-7755 or complete our online intake form.
Disclaimer: While this website provides general information, it does not constitute legal advice. Every case is unique, and you should consult with a qualified attorney regarding your specific situation.