Understanding Early Expungement in Maryland
Having a criminal record can impact your life in a number of ways, from making it difficult to find a job to limiting your ability to obtain loans or housing. Fortunately, in Maryland, individuals convicted of certain crimes or who received Probation Before Judgment (PBJ), except for alcohol-related offenses, may be eligible for early expungement. An early expungement is a process of removing criminal records from public view before the waiting period ends, which is generally three or more years, depending on the circumstances.
While a waiting period may not be a problem for some, for others, a criminal record can be detrimental to their lives in some aspects during the waiting period. If you are experiencing hardship due to having a criminal record during the waiting period, you may be able to receive an early expungement at any time with the help of an experienced Maryland lawyer from The Law Office of Hillel Traub.
What Is Early Expungement for Criminal Records?
Expungement is the process of removing criminal records from public view. In Maryland, certain types of criminal records may be expunged, including records related to arrests, charges, and convictions for certain crimes. An early expungement allows individuals to clear their records sooner than they would be able to otherwise.
You may be eligible for early expungement if you meet certain criteria, such as:
- You were found not guilty
- The charges were dismissed
- The prosecutor dropped the case
- You received probation before judgment
- Your case was indefinitely postponed
Early expungement can help you move forward and put the past behind you, giving you the opportunity to pursue your goals without the burden of a criminal record. However, pursuing an early expungement is a laborious and difficult task that requires knowledge of the underlying procedural law.
Early Expungement Requirements in Maryland
If an individual is eligible for early expungement, they may have their record cleared immediately or after a short waiting period. To receive an early expungement, you must demonstrate to a judge that you have a “good cause” or good reason for getting an early expungement. For example, a “good cause” for an early expungement is if you are undergoing extreme and verifiable problems with obtaining employment.
Other examples of “good cause” may exist, including the following:
- Housing discrimination
- Academic discrimination
An early expungement lawyer will prepare and file necessary documentation on your behalf that explains and demonstrates to the court that “good cause” exists for an early expungement. At The Law Office of Hillel Traub, we can represent you at a contested hearing if you face any obstacles or challenges to obtaining an early expungement.
Contact the Early Expungement Lawyer at The Law Office of Hillel Traub
A criminal record can have a considerable impact on your life, but in Maryland, you may be eligible for early expungement if you are experiencing hardship due to a criminal record. Consult an experienced early expungement lawyer at The Law Office of Hillel Traub to understand your rights and options. As a former lawyer for the MVA, Attorney Hillel Traub can help you move forward from a criminal record.
He will work hard to make sure that your rights are protected every step of the way. Schedule a complimentary consultation by calling (410) 580-1100 or filling out our contact form today.