Reputation. Respect. Results.
Photo of attorney Geoffrey S. McInroy

Helping You Clear Your Record And Move On From A Brush With The Law

A criminal record can make it challenging to move on from your past long after you have served your time. Employers and landlords will not hesitate to dismiss applicants with a checkered past. Unfortunately, it only takes one brush with the law to affect your ability to get a job, find a good place to live, secure federal student aid or access higher education.

In certain situations, however, the stain from a record doesn’t need to be permanent. If you meet the qualifications for an expungement, the record of your prior conviction can be removed, allowing you to leave your criminal matter in the past. Our team at The Law Office of Geoffrey McInroy, LLC, is ready to help you with this legal process. Firm founder Geoffrey McInroy is a tireless champion of his clients’ rights and will explore all avenues to obtain a favorable result for you.

Expungement can be a confusing topic, which is why we are sharing questions that we hear from clients who want to clear their record. Please read our answers below to learn more. If you are still uncertain whether you qualify for an expungement, do not hesitate to call 717-540-6833 and arrange your free consultation with an experienced lawyer today.

What Is An Expungement?

Expungement is essentially an opportunity to clear your record — at least partially. According to Pennsylvania Law, 18 Pa.C.S. § 9122, under limited circumstances individuals may be granted permission to purge criminal records from the files of the Department of Court Records, Criminal Division and similar agencies.

Why Should A Record Be Expunged?

People have many reasons for seeking to get rid of a criminal record, but passing a background check is among the most common. In Pennsylvania, many job applicants and volunteering applicants need to pass Act 33/34 background checks. Act 33 investigates any history of child abuse, while Act 34 applies to criminal convictions generally. Passing these background checks are also necessary to qualify for bonding or to obtain a gun permit.

Until or unless you are granted a motion for expungement by the Courts of Common Pleas, your criminal history is a matter of public record.

Which Records Are Expungeable?

If you were convicted of a summary offense, you can expunge the record of that conviction after five years, assuming you have stayed free of arrest or additional prosecution during that time.

You can also petition to expunge nonconvictions from your record. These include cases that ended in:

  • Withdrawal of charges
  • Dismissal of charges (nolle prosequi)
  • A not guilty verdict
  • Accelerated rehabilitative disposition
  • Probation without verdict (a way for first-time drug offenders to avoid conviction)

Do I Need A Pardon Instead?

Some convictions require a pardon request to clear your record. Call our office for a consultation to see what action is right for you. For information on Applications for Clemency in Pennsylvania go to https:// www. bop. pa.gov/ Pages/ default. aspx

Want To Learn If You Qualify? Get Answers Today.

Attorney McInroy can help you navigate the legal process of expungement whether you live in Camp Hill, Harrisburg, Dauphin County, Cumberland County or the surrounding communities. Alternatively, if you were convicted of a criminal offense and are ineligible to have your records expunged, you may still be eligible for a pardon.

To learn more about your legal options, send an email or contact The Law Office of Geoffrey McInroy, LLC, by calling 717-540-6833 to schedule a consultation.