Myrtle Beach Expungement Lawyer

A criminal record can follow you long after you have served your time or paid your fines. Whether it’s a dismissed charge, a minor conviction, or a one-time mistake, having a record can affect your life in negative ways. It can impact your ability to find a job, secure housing, or move forward with your life. Fortunately, South Carolina offers expungement options that may allow you to clear your record and get a fresh start.

If you are ready to leave the past behind, a Myrtle Beach expungement lawyer could guide you through the process. Let our compassionate defense attorneys evaluate your eligibility and answer any questions you might have about the expungement process.

Expunging a Criminal Conviction

There are limited situations where the law will allow you to expunge your criminal conviction. While these records will generally follow you forever, our attorneys can answer your questions about whether or not you qualify for clearing your record.

One of the most common situations that can lead to expungement is when you take part in a pre-trial intervention course. Even though you initially entered a guilty plea, complying with the terms of your deal not only leaves you without a criminal conviction but also gives you grounds to expunge any records related to your case. You can also seek expungement for:

• First-offense misdemeanor fraudulent check charges
• Non-violent convictions for people aged 17-24
• First-offense marijuana possession
• Dismissed/nolle prossed charges
• First-offense misdemeanors carrying less than a 30 day sentence

Our attorneys in Myrtle Beach can help you understand when you may qualify for expungement relief.

Expungement and Arrest Records

While a conviction can have the most significant impact on your life, even the record of a past arrest has the potential to complicate things for you. The good news is that since 2009, courts throughout the state automatically expunge Lower Court (Magistrate of Municipal) records related to non-convictions. A non-conviction can include a not-guilty verdict at trial, or when the prosecutors dismiss the charges. This system is not perfect, but a Myrtle Beach attorney can file a motion to expunge in cases where records slip through the cracks.

What is the Expungement Process?

The expungement process is fairly straightforward, but that does not mean it is a good idea to pursue it on your own. The process begins by obtaining a copy of your criminal record and determining whether or not you are eligible to have your record expunged. If you are eligible, your Myrtle Beach attorney must file a petition for expungement with the state Solicitor’s Office. There are also administrative fees that must be paid regardless of whether your petition is ultimately granted.

Once you file the petition, the Solicitor’s Office will review your application and determine if you are eligible. South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED) has the final word on processing the expungement.

This procedure does not require court hearings, and there will not be an opportunity to plead your case to the judge. Because of its procedural nature, your best bet is to rely on the support of skilled legal counsel when drafting your petition.

Call an Expungement Attorney in Myrtle Beach Today

If you are concerned about how your criminal record is impacting your life, it may be time to consider expungement. If eligible, you may be able to clear your records and move forward with a clean slate.

This process can be complicated, especially when you attempt to navigate it on your own. Reach out to a Myrtle Beach expungement lawyer as soon as possible to learn how we can help.