High Point Expungement Lawyer

High Point Expungement Attorney

Your criminal record can remain an obstacle long after your legal matter has ended. It can close doors to jobs, apartments, and opportunities that are vital to building a better life. Even if the charges were dropped or you’ve completed your sentence, that criminal record may still show up in a background check. The High Point expungement lawyer at The Law Offices of J. Scott Smith can help eliminate barriers and open doors to a brighter future.

Why Hire an Expungement Lawyer From The Law Offices of J. Scott Smith?

In North Carolina, expungement is not automatic. You must meet strict requirements and follow complex legal procedures to petition the court. Filing errors or incomplete paperwork can significantly delay your petition or even cause it to be denied outright. An experienced expungement attorney can guide you through the process, determine your eligibility, prepare the appropriate paperwork, and present your case clearly to the court.

A 2025 NBER study revealed that individuals with criminal records earn at least 30% less on average than those with clean records. The wage gap demonstrates how expungement is essential for restoring dignity and achieving financial freedom.

Who Can Qualify for Expungement in North Carolina?

Expungement eligibility depends on a number of factors, including the type of offense, whether it resulted in a conviction, and how long it has been since the case closed. Waiting periods range from immediately after dismissal to several years after a conviction.

Most multiple or repeat offenses, especially for violent or sexual crimes, are ineligible. North Carolina General Statutes § 15A-145, along with other legal provisions, establish the criteria for expungement eligibility. You may qualify if any of the following apply:

• Your charges were dismissed, or you were found not guilty.
• You were convicted of a nonviolent misdemeanor or felony.
• The offense occurred when you were a juvenile or young adult.
• You completed a diversion or conditional discharge program.

What the Expungement Process Looks Like

First, we will look at your criminal history, in its entirety, and identify which, if any, charges are eligible for expungement. We then complete, sign, and file the appropriate petition with the court. Any supporting affidavits (affidavits of good character) will also need to be completed and filed.

The District Attorney and the State Bureau of Investigation will then have an opportunity to review your petition. After review by the District Attorney and the State Bureau of Investigation, a judge will rule on your petition.

A hearing may be required in some expungement cases. If the petition is granted, the record will be destroyed, and the arrest will not show up on most background checks. The entire process usually takes a few months, depending on the complexity of your case and the court’s calendar.

How a Criminal Record Can Limit Your Opportunities

One arrest or charge, even if it didn’t lead to a conviction, can have life-altering consequences. Background checks by employers and landlords typically lead to automatic disqualification for applicants with previous criminal records. Licenses and schools also ask about your criminal history and can severely restrict your future choices.

Through expungement, eligible people can legally assert they have no record while removing significant employment, housing, and stability obstacles. If you’re working to rebuild or finally putting the past behind you, clearing your record can change your life.

FAQs

Can I Expunge a Charge That Was Dismissed Without Going to Trial?

Yes, you can expunge a charge that was dismissed without going to trial. In many ways, these are some of the easiest cases to expunge. If you were dismissed or your charges were dropped, you can petition the court in North Carolina to have the charges expunged, usually without any waiting period. It is an easier process, but you must still file the proper petition and follow all of the court’s rules to successfully have the expungement granted.

Will My Expunged Record Be Visible to Employers?

No, In High Point most employers will not see your expunged record. If your record is expunged, it is hidden from public view and will usually not appear on a background check for jobs, housing, or school. Some government agencies or licensing boards may still be able to see it. Following expungement, you have the legal standing to declare that you have no previous convictions or charges in most employment situations.

Can I Expunge a Juvenile Record in North Carolina?

Yes, you can expunge a juvenile record in North Carolina. Many juvenile records in North Carolina are eligible for expungement, particularly if the offenses were nonviolent and committed before the individual’s 18th birthday.

You will need to wait until you are an adult and meet any applicable waiting period before you can apply for expungement. Expunging juvenile records prevents past mistakes from obstructing future educational progress and employment chances or from blocking housing opportunities.

What Types of Convictions Cannot Be Expunged in North Carolina?

Offenses ineligible for expungement in North Carolina include most violent offenses, sex crimes, and multiple felony convictions. Offenses involving serious bodily injury, a deadly weapon, or registration requirements (such as those involving minors) are not generally eligible. North Carolina maintains a strict list of eligible offenses, so it’s crucial to thoroughly review your case prior to filing. If your offense is on this ineligible list, your legal options may be limited.

Contact a High Point Expungement Attorney at LAWSMITH, The Law Offices of J. Scott Smith

Having a criminal record shouldn’t be a life sentence. Maybe your charge was dismissed, your case ended in a nonviolent conviction, or the offense occurred when you were a juvenile. Regardless of the nature of your case, you may be eligible for expungement under North Carolina law.

At The Law Offices of J. Scott Smith, we can provide guidance on your available legal options and advocate for your right to clear your record. Our High Point expungement lawyer can take you through each step of the process. This includes reviewing your case to determine if you meet the requirements for expungement, filing your petition, and representing you at a court hearing if necessary.

You deserve a second chance, and we can fight to help you get it. Book a consultation today.