If you have a criminal record, it is probably holding you back in many aspects of life—from the company you work for to the places you can live. Luckily, there are ways to clear or hide your records from the public. If you have been charged in the past, the criminal law experts from Osborne, Tripp & Schmidt, SC in Sparta, WI, will explain everything you need to know about expungement and record sealing.

The Difference Between Record Sealing & Expungement

In the state of Wisconsin, the laws regarding record sealing and expungement are strict, but a criminal law attorney will help you navigate the request process if you feel your criminal record is preventing you from thriving. Record sealing hides your records from the public, so although they still exist, most people cannot view them. Expungement refers to clearing your criminal record completely.

A criminal defense expert will tell you these terms are often used interchangeably, and in most states, including Wisconsin, records are rarely completely expunged. If your records are sealed, the public will not be able to see them; however, the courts and other law enforcement personnel can still access them under certain circumstances.

Requesting Expungement

If you want to seek expungement, a criminal law attorney from Osborne, Tripp & Schmidt, SC will help you determine if you are eligible. In general, the state of Wisconsin is more likely to expunge the criminal records of young offenders. If you committed the crime when you were under the age of 25 and meet certain requirements, you can request expungement by filing a Petition to Expunge Court Record of Conviction in the same court in which you were convicted.

Whether you are facing criminal charges or craving a clean slate, you can rely on the team at Osborne, Tripp & Schmidt in Sparta, WI. Visit their website to learn more about their areas of practice—including bankruptcy law and divorce—and call (608) 269-2400 to schedule an initial consultation with a criminal law attorney today.