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Having a criminal conviction makes it more difficult to obtain employment and find a place to live. In Ohio, a recent change in the law makes it easier to get rid of felony convictions that can hinder you. A criminal attorney can help you exercise your rights under the features of this new expungement law.

What Criminal Attorneys Think You Should Know About Ohio's Expungement Law

1. Expungement Wipes Your Record Clean

When the court expunges a conviction, the clerk of court removes it from your record. Your conviction no longer exists. You can state you have never been convicted of a crime, and no one will know you ever had a conviction. Sealing a record has a similar effect, and prospective employers have no access to the sealed documents. 

2. Ohio Law Allows the Expungement of Multiple Felonies

criminal attorneyUnder a state law change in 2018, individuals with certain felony convictions can petition the court to expunge up to five felonies of the fourth or fifth degree. An unlimited number of misdemeanors can now be expunged. Courts have discretion whether to grant the expungement; and it may take up to five years after conviction to have multiple felonies expunged.

3. Some Felony Convictions Cannot Be Expunged

If you have convictions of first, second or third degree felonies, they are not eligible for expungement. Lower-level felonies and misdemeanors involving sex crimes or violence or sex crimes do not qualify for sealed records under the new expungement law. Some exceptions may exist.

 

Hiring a seasoned criminal attorney to pursue sealing your felony records can give you a fresh start in life. At Michael A. Newland Law Office, clients benefit from his 29 years of legal experience and knowledge of criminal law and procedure. Dedicated to protecting the rights of residents in Hamilton and Butler County, Ohio, this skilled and compassionate DUI and traffic lawyer will guide you through the expungement process to clear your name from the criminal records. Call (513) 887-9595 to schedule a consultation; or, visit his website for more information on the services of this dynamic criminal attorney. 

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