The state of Connecticut recognizes expungement—or what’s called “absolute pardon”—in all kinds of scenarios. Since this process can essentially clear your criminal record, defense attorneys often recommend pursuing it as soon as enough time has passed following a conviction. If you think you may want to try expunging a criminal record at some point, here's what you should know.

What Does Expungement Entail?

Expungement refers to the process by which criminal records are erased or sealed. In the state of Connecticut, a record can be erased if the suspect was not found guilty, the case was dismissed, or any relevant charges were dropped.

If you were ever convicted, on the other hand, you may seek what's known as an expungement pardon. This essentially erases the petitioner’s entire criminal history. Expungement pardons are only available for certain individuals in certain scenarios.

Who Is Eligible for Expungement?

Generally speaking, a defense attorney can help you seek an expungement pardon if it’s been at least three years since a misdemeanor conviction or at least five years since a felony conviction. Unlike other states, though, Connecticut evaluates expungement requests on a case by case basis. That means as long as enough time has passed, you could receive a pardon regardless of the crime in question. At the end of the day, the Connecticut Board of Pardons and Paroles can grant pardons for any kind of conviction. 

If you want to erase or seal your criminal records, turn to the defense attorneys at The Law Office of Gregory G. St. John, LLC to determine eligibility. Located in Waterbury, CT, this family-owned and -operated practice has been representing clients throughout New Haven and Litchfield counties for more than forty years. By limiting their scope of practice to criminal defense and just a few other areas, they're able to provide comprehensive counsel that’s backed by tons of relevant experience. To schedule a consultation with a criminal defense attorney on their team, call (203) 759-0240 or reach out online.