Recently, our call volume has seen a spike in people looking to gain a greater understanding of how they can go about clearing their criminal record. The options are complex, but sometimes directing people to the right information can allow them to do some research on their own. Here are a few steps to get you started and links to critical information you need to help decide on the correct course of action.
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Before starting the process, find out what your official criminal record looks like. https://www.psp.pa.gov/Pages/Expungement-Process.aspx
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Find out if your record and/or convictions qualify for an expungement https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/legis/LI/consCheck.cfm?txtType=HTM&ttl=18&div=0&chpt=91&sctn=22&subsctn=0
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Step one of the PA Clean Slate Act passed last year and allows certain convictions to be sealed from the public in Act 56 of 2018 (HB 1419) – Limited Access Petitions & Clean Slate Limited Access. http://www.pahouse.com/Kim/cleanslate/ and https://www.legis.state.pa.us/cfdocs/legis/li/uconsCheck.cfm?yr=2018&sessInd=0&act=56
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Step two of the Clean Slate Act automated some expungements to further help people get back to work and boost their economic health. https://mycleanslatepa.com/
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If you are unsure if you qualify for an expungement, seek legal help to confirm if you have additional options.
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Find your Expungement petitions here. http://www.pacourts.us/forms/for-the-public
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An application for clemency may be your only option and Pennsylvania has made great strides to simplify this process for potential applicants. https://www.bop.pa.gov/Pages/default.aspx
If you find this information confusing and feel you need more assistance. For a Consultation call 717-540-6833 to schedule.