- 130 S. Salisbury Street, Raleigh, NC 27601
- Need Legal help? Call Us Now
- (919) 832 0307
What We DoHaving a criminal record can cause issues long after a case ends. Employers, landlords, licensing boards, and others often rely on background checks, and even an old charge can create obstacles. North Carolina allows certain records to be expunged, but the law is specific about who qualifies.
At the Law Office of Dewey P. Brinkley, we help people in Raleigh determine whether expungement is available and guide them through the process. Clearing a record is not automatic, and eligibility depends on the facts of your case and your criminal history.
Don’t Wait!
Contact Raleigh’s Leading Criminal Defense Attorney Now.
North Carolina permits expungement in a number of situations, but not every charge or conviction is eligible.
Many people qualify after charges were dismissed or they were found not guilty. These cases are often the most straightforward. Some first-time, nonviolent convictions may also be expunged after a required waiting period, provided there have been no additional criminal offenses.
Certain juvenile records may qualify as well. The law recognizes that mistakes made at a young age should not necessarily follow someone into adulthood.
Determining eligibility starts with reviewing the charge, the outcome of the case, and your overall criminal record.
Some criminal records cannot be expunged under North Carolina law. Certain felony convictions, violent offenses, and multiple convictions may make a person ineligible.
Other issues can slow the process, even when someone otherwise qualifies. Pending charges, unpaid fines, outstanding restitution, or missing court records can create problems. Older cases sometimes require additional work to obtain documents that are no longer readily available.
Previous expungements may also affect whether another petition can be filed.
Because these rules can be complicated, it is important to review your entire criminal history before moving forward.
Some criminal records cannot be expunged under North Carolina law. Certain felony convictions, violent offenses, and multiple convictions may make a person ineligible.
Other issues can slow the process, even when someone otherwise qualifies. Pending charges, unpaid fines, outstanding restitution, or missing court records can create problems. Older cases sometimes require additional work to obtain documents that are no longer readily available.
Previous expungements may also affect whether another petition can be filed.
Because these rules can be complicated, it is important to review your entire criminal history before moving forward.
North Carolina imposes waiting periods for many expungements. The amount of time you must wait depends on the type of offense and whether the case ended in a dismissal, acquittal, or conviction.
For some convictions, you must remain free of new criminal charges throughout the waiting period. In certain cases, even a relatively minor offense can affect eligibility.
Courts also expect all conditions of the sentence to be completed. Probation, restitution, court costs, and fines generally must be satisfied before relief will be granted.
Submitting a petition too soon can result in a denial, even if you would otherwise qualify later.
An expungement lawyer examines each charge in your case, its outcome, and the laws that apply to your situation.
If you qualify, we prepare the petition, gather the necessary documents, and make sure everything is filed correctly. Proper preparation helps avoid delays and gives the court the information it needs to evaluate your request.
After filing, we track the case’s progress and respond to any questions or objections raised by the prosecutor or the court.
Many people assume they do not qualify for expungement when they actually do. A review of your record can provide clear answers and help you decide what steps to take next.
A past mistake or criminal charge should not continue to limit your opportunities indefinitely. Expungement may allow you to clear your record and move forward with greater confidence.
The Law Office of Dewey P. Brinkley represents clients in Raleigh and throughout North Carolina who want to put old cases behind them. You can reach us at (919) 832-0307 or through this online form. Schedule a free consultation to discuss your case. We can review your record, explain your options, and help you determine whether expungement is available in your case.
Certified Criminal Law Specialist by North Carolina State Bar.
Tried over 250 criminal cases in local courts.
Knows prosecution strategies from time as Assistant District Attorney.
Direct, responsive service from start to finish by Brinkley himself.
4.9-star client reviews praise professionalism and case outcomes.
Speak directly with Attorney Dewey Brinkley – 100% confidential and no obligation.