Full question:
I have 1 domestic assault from 1997 and 1 from 1998. I plead nolo to both. I also have a simple assault from 2004. That was a guilty. I need them off my record, I can't get a job with them. I am in RI. I've tried to expunge them myself but got nowhere. what do I do? I need to make them go away...from what I have read the AG's flunky is treating them like felonies, not misdemeanors. I need them sealed or expunged.... What do I do?
- Category: Criminal
- Subcategory: Expungement of Criminal Records
- Date:
- State: Rhode Island
Answer:
In Rhode Island, having multiple convictions can complicate expungement eligibility. Generally, to qualify for expungement, you must be a first offender, meaning you have not been previously convicted of any felony or misdemeanor. Additionally, certain convictions, including those classified as 'crimes of violence,' cannot be expunged. Crimes of violence include serious offenses such as murder, sexual assault, and robbery (R.I. Gen. Laws § 12-1.3-1). For misdemeanor convictions, you may file for expungement five years after completing your sentence, provided you have not had any new convictions or pending criminal proceedings during that time. For felony convictions, the waiting period is ten years (R.I. Gen. Laws § 12-1.3-2). Since you have multiple domestic assault charges and a simple assault conviction, you may not meet the first offender requirement. It’s advisable to consult with a legal professional who specializes in criminal law in Rhode Island to explore your options. They can provide guidance on your specific situation and help you navigate the expungement process effectively. Users can search for state-specific legal templates at .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.