Expungement Attorney Bloomfield Hills, MI
An expungement, also known as a set aside, can offer you a second chance by clearing certain criminal convictions from your record. Whether you’re looking for better job opportunities, housing, or simply want to move forward with your life, expungement offers a path to erase eligible offenses. Understanding the process and knowing how to get started is essential to securing your fresh start.
What is an Expungement?
An expungement is a legal process that allows for the removal or sealing of certain criminal records. Once a conviction is expunged or set aside, it no longer exists. It is no longer visible on public records, which can greatly benefit your personal and professional life. It also allows someone to say they do not have a conviction. Expungement laws vary by state, and not all crimes are eligible for expungement. However, for those who qualify, an expungement can provide relief by allowing individuals to legally deny the existence of certain criminal convictions in most situations.
Who is Eligible for Expungement?
In Michigan, eligibility for expungement depends on several factors, including the type of crime, the time that has passed since the conviction, and whether the individual has maintained a clean record since. Some of the key criteria for eligibility include:
- The conviction is a misdemeanor or a felony that is eligible for expungement under state law.
- A certain number of years have passed since the completion of any sentencing, including probation or parole.
- The individual has not been convicted of another crime during the waiting period.
- The offense was not a violent crime, such as murder or sexual assault.
Even if you believe you may qualify, the process can be complex. That’s where having the right legal support can make a significant difference.
The Expungement Process
At our firm, we guide you through the expungement process, starting with the most important first step: obtaining your ICHAT record.
Step 1: Obtaining Your ICHAT Record
The first step in the expungement process is to obtain your ICHAT (Internet Criminal History Access Tool) record. This is a detailed report from the Michigan State Police that includes your criminal history, such as arrests, charges, convictions, and dispositions. It is essential for determining which, if any, of your offenses are eligible for expungement.
Here’s what you need to do:
- Request Your ICHAT Record: To get your ICHAT record, you must submit a request directly to the Michigan State Police on their website: https://apps.michigan.gov/. You can request your report online for a fee of $10.
- Review the Record: Once you receive your ICHAT record, contact our office. We will carefully review it to identify which convictions may be eligible for expungement under Michigan law. If you are eligible for expungement, we will move forward in the next steps of the process.
By starting with the ICHAT record, you ensure that we have the correct and complete information needed to evaluate your eligibility and guide you through the expungement process.
Next Steps
After we receive your ICHAT record and assess your eligibility, we can begin preparing the necessary petitions, gathering supporting documentation, and filing your request for expungement with the court. Once the court schedules a hearing, we go with you to argue for expungement. We will keep you informed throughout the process and provide clear guidance every step of the way.
Why Choose Our Firm?
Expungement law can be complex, and the process requires attention to detail. At the Law Office of John Freeman, we are experienced in handling expungements and are committed to helping clients navigate the legal system to clear their records. With our assistance, you’ll have the support you need to successfully move forward.
If you’re ready to take the first step toward clearing your criminal record, request your ICHAT record, send it to us, and let us help you determine if an expungement is possible.