Being convicted of a crime can be scary, and you may be worried about the future implications. It’s true that a criminal conviction on your record can make it harder to get more opportunities later, but it’s not impossible. There are options in some cases that allow you to petition to have your conviction removed from your record so that it’s not still hanging over you. Find out how this works and what an attorney can do for you below.
Worried about what your criminal record may mean for your future? Talk with an experienced expungement attorney to find out about your options and what it looks like to have your record expunged. The legal team at Benjamin Durham Law Firm has experience with all types of expungement cases and can help you understand if this is something that may be available in your situation.
How Can Having a Criminal Record Affect My Future?
You already know that a criminal conviction comes with immediate penalties, such as fines or jail time, but what about after you’ve served your sentence? Having a conviction on your record can impact where you can live and your employment prospects. For example, some apartment communities can deny you if you have a felony conviction on your record, and it’s very common for employers to run a background check as part of the routine application process. When your conviction comes up, it could make them think twice about hiring you, even if you’re the right person for the job.
What Are the Options for Having a Criminal Record Removed?
In general, you have two options for having a conviction removed from your criminal record. You can have it sealed or have it expunged. If you have a conviction expunged, it is completely removed from your criminal record as if it never happened. Once the expungement is complete, there is no way for someone to tell that you had the conviction through any kind of review or background check. If you have your record sealed, it won’t show up on any kind of public search, such as through online court records or a background check. However, the records will still exist, and it is technically possible for them to be unsealed at some point in the future if the court so orders.
Do I Need an Attorney to Have My Record Expunged?
Technically, you don’t have to have an attorney representing you to file to have a conviction expunged from your record. However, the vast majority of people – and certainly those who are successful – use an expungement lawyer for this process. This is because it’s not an easy process to have a conviction wiped. There is a specific protocol and filing process that must be followed, and you will usually need a very compelling argument. Keep in mind that the prosecutor of the original charge is also able to argue why the record should not be expunged. To get through all of this and have the best chance at getting the courts to order an expungement, you will want to hire an experienced expungement attorney who has a strong track record of success in these types of cases.
How Do I Hire an Expungement Lawyer?
To hire an expungement lawyer, you will need an attorney who practices criminal defense. You may be able to use the same attorney who represented you during the charge, but many people want to choose someone new for this part of the process. Make sure to ask any attorneys you are talking to about how many expungements they have filed for and what their success percentage looks like. It’s also a good idea to find an attorney who has gotten convictions similar to yours expunged.
If you feel like your criminal conviction might be holding you back from a successful future, Benjamin Durham Law Firm may be able to help. Contact our office in Salt Lake City today by calling 385-342-4300 to talk to a member of our team. We can schedule a consultation to go over your case and let you know what we can do.
Dedicated to Criminal Defense and Personal Injury Representation
Practice areas focuses on safeguarding individuals who suffer harm due to the actions or negligence of another party. These claims address injuries whether physical, mental, or occasionally involving property damage experienced by the affected individual.
Criminal Defense
Drug Crimes
Our experienced criminal defense team at Durham Law Firm defends individuals facing drug-related charges. We diligently analyze evidence, challenge procedures, and protect your rights to secure the best possible outcome for your case.
DUI
Our skilled team at Durham Law Firm provides aggressive DUI defense. We challenge breathalyzer results, question police procedures, and protect your rights, striving to minimize penalties and protect your driving privileges.
Record Sealing
Durham Law Firm assists clients in clearing their criminal records through record sealing. We guide you through the legal process, helping you move forward with a clean slate for a brighter future.
Domestic Violence
At Durham Law Firm, our committed attorneys offer support and legal representation to individuals facing domestic violence charges. We provide legal defense, ensure your rights are protected, and work diligently to secure a fair legal process on your behalf.
Assault
When facing assault charges, rely on Durham Law Firm’s experienced defense team. We meticulously examine evidence, challenge allegations, and protect your rights, working towards the best possible outcome for your case.
Theft
Durham Law Firm defends individuals facing theft charges. Our legal team examines the evidence, explores potential defenses, and works to minimize penalties or have charges dismissed, ensuring a fair legal process.
Traffic Law
Navigating traffic violations can be complex. Our attorneys at Durham Law Firm provide guidance, helping you with traffic tickets, license issues, and other traffic-related legal matters.
Felony
In felony cases, Durham Law Firm’s experienced defense attorneys are dedicated to protecting your rights. We craft robust defense strategies, negotiate with prosecutors, and represent you in court.
Misdemeanor
Durham Law Firm defends clients facing misdemeanor charges. Our legal team offers quality guidance, thorough case analysis, and advocacy to minimize the impact of charges on your record and life.
Personal Injury
Car Accidents
After a car accident, trust Durham Law Firm to fight for your rights. We seek compensation for injuries, property damage, and other losses by providing dedicated legal representation.
Truck Accidents
Durham Law Firm’s experienced attorneys handle complex truck accident cases. We investigate thoroughly, negotiate with insurers, and litigate, if necessary, to secure just compensation for victims of truck accidents.
Motorcycle Accidents
Durham Law Firm advocates for motorcycle accident victims. Our skilled attorneys pursue compensation for injuries, medical expenses, and other losses, providing comprehensive legal support for riders.
Pedestrian Accidents
Durham Law Firm is here for pedestrian accident victims. We’re dedicated to securing the compensation you deserve for injuries, medical bills, and hardships stemming from your accident.
Bicycle Accidents
At Durham Law Firm, we’re committed to protecting the rights of bicyclists involved in accidents. We fight for compensation to cover medical costs, property damage, and the impact on your life.
Bus Accidents
Injured in a bus accident? Durham Law Firm fights to ensure bus accident victims receive fair compensation for their losses and to hold the at-fault party accountable.
Head-On Collision
In head-on collision cases, Durham Law Firm provides experienced legal representation. We investigate, negotiate, and litigate to secure compensation for your injuries and damages.
Hit & Run
When you’re a victim of a hit-and-run, Durham Law Firm is on your side. We pursue justice and compensation, working tirelessly to hold the responsible parties accountable for their actions.
Rear End Collision
Durham Law Firm also handles rear-end collision cases. Our attorneys investigate thoroughly, ensuring you receive rightful compensation for injuries and damages caused by negligent drivers.
Distracted Driving Accidents
If you’ve suffered due to distracted driving, Durham Law Firm is your advocate. We’re dedicated to pursuing compensation for injuries and losses resulting from distracted driver negligence.
Testimonials
What our clients Say
Client satisfaction fuels our passion and purpose. We are dedicated to exceeding expectations, ensuring that each person who entrusts us with their legal matters walks away in a better state than before.
Highly recommend this office. They took care of my case from start to finish and I couldn’t be any more grateful having their service. Awesome customer service and professionalism. The whole team is amazing and i would like a shoutout especially to Raquel and Daniel who helped me with my case every step of the way. I wasn’t only treated a very special client but also like a family— protected, safe and secured. Wouldn’t go anywhere else for legal services. This is the place!!! Thank you Atty Durham and to your top notch team! My family and I are clients for life! God bless!
Danielle Petkovich is my first choice for a criminal defense attorney. She is smart, extremely capable, and friendly. She is great at keeping you informed on your case, the process, and what to expect. She makes you feel at ease, and you know you’re in good hands!! The other attorneys in the office have similar qualities and I wouldn’t hesitate to consult with any one of them in Danielle’s absence.
Highly recommend Ben! He helped me to get my felonies dropped down to misdemeanors and was very easy to communicate with. Most attorneys are in it for the money and don’t make you feel like they care but that was the opposite with Ben. He is very thoughtful and even checked up on me after I had my baby. He doesn’t judge you no matter how bad things may appear to be. He is very understanding and a man of his word. Made it so simple and easy all I had to do was show up to court and the rest was handled!
Danielle Petkovich is my first choice for a criminal defense attorney. She is smart, extremely capable, and friendly. She is great at keeping you informed on your case, the process, and what to expect. She makes you feel at ease and you know you’re in good hands!! The other attorneys in the office have similar qualities and I wouldn’t hesitate to consult with any one of them in Danielle’s absence.
Get to Know Our
Client-Focused Legal Team
Meet the backbone of Benjamin Durham Law Firm. Committed to providing the highest level of service, our team combines a wealth of knowledge, skill, and dedication to ensure that our clients receive the best possible legal representation.
Benjamin Durham
Ben Bateman
Easton Durham
Marilu Martinez
Kesia Haag
Experience Matters
An experienced lawyer with a strong track record of success may actually be your most affordable option. With over 20 years of practicing law, we understand every detail of this complex system.
