Akron Expungement and Motion to Seal Lawyer

Working to Clear Your Criminal Record

Expungement and motions to seal are legal procedures designed to help individuals with criminal records clear their names and secure better opportunities for their future. In simple terms, an expungement permanently destroys one's criminal record, while a motion to seal means the records are preserved but inaccessible to the public.

A criminal record can present considerable hurdles in life, limiting access to employment, housing, and other crucial opportunities. Clearing these records or restricting public access can help individuals overcome these limitations and regain control of their lives.

In Ohio, expungements and record sealing laws are outlined under Ohio Revised Code § 2953.32. Navigating these laws can be pretty complex, which is why having experienced legal representation is essential.

I, Christopher Thomarios, have been serving the community for over 20+ years, offering insightful legal advice and representation to those seeking to expunge or seal their criminal records in Akron. With a deep understanding of the law and a commitment to pursuing favorable outcomes for my clients, I provide comprehensive assistance throughout the process.

If you need an Akron-based attorney handling expungements and record sealing, consider contacting me. Call (888) 506-2167 today.

Eligibility Requirements for Expungement or Record Sealing

Applicants must meet several requirements to qualify for expungement or record sealing in Ohio. First and foremost, individuals cannot have a conviction for a disqualifying offense, such as violent felonies or sex crimes. Moreover, those with pending criminal proceedings against them are generally ruled ineligible for these legal procedures.

The court also assesses whether applicants have been rehabilitated satisfactorily, a subjective measure that often involves considering an individual's behavior and contributions to society post-conviction. It's also necessary to wait a predetermined period before applying, varying depending on the severity of the conviction.

The process for filing for an expungement or a motion to seal begins with applying to the court where the conviction initially occurred. This step involves complex legal paperwork that must be completed accurately and thoroughly to avoid potential delays or denials.

Seeking to Have Your Record Expunged

Expungement is a legal procedure that can offer individuals a fresh start, free from the repercussions of a past criminal conviction. However, not all misdemeanors and felonies are eligible for expungement.

Records for offenses such as the following cannot be cleared:

• Sex crimes
• Domestic violence
• Violent felonies
• First- or second-degree felonies
• Three or more third-degree felonies

Understanding the timelines and waiting periods associated with applying for expungement is also crucial.

Individuals can apply for expungement after final discharge according to the following waiting periods:

• 6 months for a minor misdemeanor
• 1 year for a misdemeanor
• 10 years for a felony

Navigating the complexities of this legal process is often daunting. However, with the counsel of an Akron expungement lawyer, individuals can better understand their eligibility, the process, and how to navigate the system.

Filing a Motion to Seal

Record sealing and expungement, while closely related, serve different functions in the realm of criminal law. Unlike expungement, which permanently erases the criminal record, record sealing makes these records inaccessible to the public. 

Although sealed, these records are not entirely eradicated and can still be accessed by certain entities. These typically include law enforcement officials, probation or parole officers, legal representatives of the person whose records were sealed, and criminal investigation bureaus.

Sealing a record involves several requirements and timelines that must be adhered to. 

Following the final discharge of a conviction, an application for record sealing can be made after these specific waiting periods:

• 6 months for a minor misdemeanor
• 1 year for a fourth- or fifth-degree felony or one or more misdemeanors
• 3 years for one or two third-degree felonies
• 7 years for those convicted of soliciting improper compensation by a public servant

Working with Christopher G. Thomarios, Esq. LLC

Choosing the proper legal representation is paramount when navigating the complexities of expungement and record-sealing cases. With a wealth of experience spanning  20+ years, I am well-equipped to handle these matters. 

I provide advice and actively listen to my clients, helping them through every stage of the process. I prepare and submit required forms, filling them out accurately and completely to avoid potential delays. Additionally, I represent my clients during hearings, leveraging my insights and understanding of the law to advocate for their rights and interests.

For those considering filing a motion to seal or expunge their record in Akron, I invite you to contact me at (888) 506-2167.