Understanding Expungement in Rhode Island
A criminal conviction can affect many areas of your life, including job applications, housing forms, and other day-to-day opportunities. If you have a conviction in Rhode Island, there may be hope: under certain circumstances, you may be eligible for expunging your record.
What is Expungement?
Expungement is the legal process that seals a person’s criminal record. After expungement, your record will generally not appear on background checks performed by employers or housing providers. It’s important to note that expungement does not erase your record completely; government agencies such as the FBI may still access it. However, for most practical purposes, expunging your record can make it much easier to apply for jobs or housing.
When You Cannot Expunge Your Record
Not all convictions qualify for expungement. You cannot have your record expunged if:
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You committed a violent crime, such as assault, arson, burglary, robbery, kidnapping, murder, or manslaughter.
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You have committed another crime or violated parole since your first conviction. Expungement is generally limited to first-time offenders.
Timing and Eligibility for Expungement
The waiting period before you can begin expunging your record depends on the type of conviction.
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For non-violent misdemeanors, you must wait five years from the end of your sentence.
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For non-violent felonies, the wait period is 10 years.
Other factors affect eligibility. You must complete probation successfully and pay any outstanding fines before moving forward with expungement.
Rhode Island Expungement Attorneys Can Help
If you believe you may qualify for expungement, working with an experienced criminal defense attorney can make the process smoother. The attorneys at Inman & Tourgee assist clients throughout the expungement process to ensure all legal requirements are met. To discuss your eligibility for expunging your record, fill out an online case evaluation form or call (401) 823-9200 today.
