Gastonia Expungement Lawyer

Gastonia Expungement Attorney

It is very easy to run a background check on someone and learn all about their past arrests and criminal convictions. Having such information available to the public is dangerous. Even if you were wrongly arrested, a potential employer may choose not to hire you. A potential landlord may refuse to rent to you. A bank may decide that you are too great a risk and deny you a loan. A Gastonia expungement lawyer can explore ways to clear your record.

Why Choose The Law Firm of Brent D. Ratchford?

The expungements attorney at The Law Firm of Brent D. Ratchford can explain the expungement process in North Carolina. If you qualify to have your record wiped clean, our skilled criminal defense lawyer in Gastonia can guide you through each step.

Based in Gastonia, our firm offers local, experienced representation to clients throughout Gaston County and beyond. If your record is expunged, you can legally tell the world that you were never arrested or convicted for that offense. This will open up numerous new opportunities for you. It will also protect your reputation in society.

How the Expungement Process Works in Gaston County

Whether you live in Westland Farm, Cramerton Village, Gardner Park, or elsewhere in or near Gaston County, the process of clearing your criminal or arrest record works similarly. Petitions must be filed with the clerk of the superior court in the county where the charge or conviction occurred.

The process begins by identifying eligible cases and confirming the correct statute that applies. The petition must be completed and filed with supporting documents. The courts may order background or records checks. If you are granted a hearing, the process of clearing the charge begins immediately after. Many people in Gaston County can benefit from expungement, as the county has a crime rate of 34.14 per 1,000 residents.

Who Can Get A Criminal Record Expunged in Gastonia, NC?

If the charges against you were dismissed or you were found “not guilty,” then you automatically have the right to get the arrest taken off your record.

The laws have changed in recent years, so under the right conditions, certain felonies and misdemeanors can also be expunged. Juvenile offenses are also frequently eligible for expungement.
Under North Carolina law, some offenses cannot be expunged. These include sex offenses, meth or heroin possession and felony assault, among others.

Why You Should Hire an Expungement Lawyer

Regardless of the cause of your arrest or conviction, your top priority should be to hire an expungement lawyer who understands expungement cases. Many criminal cases result from DWIs and other common crimes. In 2023, there were 7,728 people injured due to intoxicated driving across North Carolina. A Gastonia expungement attorney can review your case and file the necessary paperwork, based on North Carolina’s expungement laws.

FAQs About Gastonia, NC Expungement Law

How Much Does It Cost to Get a Record Expunged in North Carolina?

The cost of getting a criminal record expunged in North Carolina depends on the filing fee, along with the time and resources your attorney puts into the process. Depending on the type of expunction, there may or may not be a fee. The general fee is $175, which covers the cost of filing the petition. Legal fees depend on your lawyer’s hourly or flat rate.

Is Expunging Your Record Worth It?

If you are seeking a second chance that will allow you to access housing and job opportunities, it is well worth having your criminal record expunged. In many cases, a successful expungement means that you can tell an employer or landlord that you do not have a criminal or arrest record. The general public would no longer have access to your criminal record, and you can start over without fear of being flagged as a convicted criminal.

What Crimes Cannot Be Expunged in North Carolina?

Many serious crimes cannot be expunged in North Carolina. These include most sex crimes, many violent crimes, and other serious offenses. If you were charged with these crimes but found not guilty, you can explore ways to have any trace of your arrest and charges removed. In most cases, it is well worth examining the possibility of having your record cleared by meeting with an attorney.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Record Expunged in North Carolina?

The process of having your record expunged generally takes several months to complete. This timeframe varies based on the complexity of the expungement process, which may require background checks or hearings. The schedule of the courts and administrators who oversee the process can also be a factor that determines how long it takes to clear your record.

Talk To A Gastonia Expungement Lawyer Today

Since 1997, defendants in Gastonia have turned to The Law Firm of Brent D. Ratchford for unwavering advocacy and proven results. Our founding attorney personally manages expungement cases. They can work to secure you a clean slate and a second chance. Learn more about the expungement process and discover if it’s an option for you by contacting our office today.