If you have a criminal record in Michigan, you may wonder if it’s possible to have it cleared. Having a criminal record can impact various aspects of your life, including employment, housing, and even your ability to obtain certain licenses.
Fortunately, Michigan does offer options for clearing your criminal record, but it’s important to understand the process and eligibility requirements.
Expungement in Michigan
In Michigan, clearing your criminal record is known as “expungement.” Expungement allows individuals to have certain criminal convictions set aside or “sealed” from public view, meaning they will no longer appear on background checks or other records. This can be crucial in moving forward with your life and achieving your goals.
Eligibility for Expungement in Michigan
Not all criminal convictions are eligible for expungement in Michigan. The state has specific requirements that must be met for a conviction to be considered for expungement. These requirements include:
- The conviction must be for a non-violent offense, meaning that it did not involve the use or threat of physical harm.
- The conviction must not be for certain specified crimes, including certain sex crimes, traffic offenses resulting in death or serious injury, and certain crimes involving firearm use.
- The individual must have completed all terms of their sentence, including any probation or parole requirements, and must not have any pending criminal charges.
- The individual must wait a certain amount after completing their sentence before applying for expungement. This waiting period varies depending on the type of conviction but can range from three to seven years.
The process for expungement in Michigan can be complex, and it’s important to work with an experienced attorney to ensure that you meet all eligibility requirements and complete the necessary steps correctly.
Other Options for Clearing Your Criminal Record in Michigan
If you do not meet the eligibility requirements for expungement in Michigan, there may still be other options for clearing your criminal record. For example, you may be able to petition the court for a pardon or commutation of your sentence. Additionally, Michigan law allows for the sealing of certain juvenile records.
Having a criminal record can be a significant barrier to achieving your goals and moving forward with your life. If you have a criminal record in Michigan, it’s important to explore your options for clearing it.
Whether through expungement, a pardon, or another legal mechanism, there may be ways to remove the stain of a criminal conviction from your record and start fresh. Consult an experienced attorney to help you navigate the process and make the most of your opportunities.
Get Yourself a Good Lawyer
Here at Haque Legal, we always tell potential clients that the best thing they can do in case of a case filed against them is to get themselves a good lawyer at the beginning of the proceedings. Even when you are just filling up forms or think that you already have a dispute, you can always get yourself a good lawyer to start the process.
The first great thing that you can do is to make sure that you have a good guide when it comes to dealing with legalities. After all, you are fighting for your freedom and your life.
Contact Your Lawyer
If you have been involved in a criminal complaint in Michigan, you need to contact your law firm. A lawyer can help you get started with properly protecting your rights. A lawyer at Haque Legal will see to it that your needs are met from the beginning to the end of the proceedings. You are always in good hands with Haque Legal and what it offers.
Disclaimer
The article you read is based on general applications of the law. It is not legal advice and should not be construed as any legal consultation with the firm. No client-attorney relationship is created when you read the articles we have provided.
Let us help you out.
If you are having trouble with the law about a possible charge of a sex crime or you want a lawyer to help you with the representation, call us immediately. If you have any problem with the law or seek justice and truth, our numbers are standing by to take your call.