How can I expunge an arrest record if not found guilty?

Full question:

I saw nothing of how to "expunge" arrest records. When you are not found guilty, can the case make as much trouble as being convicted for robbery?

  • Category: Criminal
  • Subcategory: Expungement of Criminal Records
  • Date:
  • State: Alabama

Answer:

An expungement is the legal process of destroying or removing criminal records. In Alabama, if you are not convicted of a crime, you can have your arrest record sealed, which includes expungement, erasure, or purging of the record. This means that the record is removed from databases, making it as if the arrest never happened (Ala. Code § 41-9-625). The main issue with having an unexpunged arrest record is that many job applications ask if you have ever been arrested, which can cause difficulties even if you were not convicted.

This content is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Legal statutes mentioned reflect the law at the time the content was written and may no longer be current. Always verify the latest version of the law before relying on it.

FAQs

When requesting expungement, you should clearly state that you are seeking to have your arrest record sealed because you were not convicted. Present any supporting documents, such as court records, and explain how the arrest has impacted your life. It's important to demonstrate that you have been rehabilitated and that sealing the record serves the interests of justice. Be respectful and concise in your request.

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