Expungement Lawyer in Baltimore, Maryland
Criminal records can throw a wrench into your life plans.
If you have a past arrest or conviction that no longer reflects who you are today, a criminal record expungement could help you start fresh.
Greenberg Law Offices guides Baltimore residents through the Maryland expungement process.
When you choose us, you’ll have an experienced expungement lawyer to file petitions and advocate for you throughout the process.
Reach out to Greenberg Law Offices today to discuss your case with a Baltimore expungement lawyer who can help you move past your conviction.
What Is Criminal Record Expungement?
Criminal record expungement in Maryland allows you to have certain arrests, charges, or convictions removed from public records.
Once a record is expunged, it’s as if it never occurred, for most purposes.
This doesn’t mean the record disappears entirely (law enforcement and courts may still access it in limited circumstances), but it generally prevents the public from seeing it.
Expungement in Maryland isn’t automatic, however, and not every case will qualify. It’s worth talking to Greenberg Law Offices to learn whether you’re a good candidate and what to do next.
Why Expungement Is Important
Expungement can improve access to professional and personal opportunities.
Many companies conduct background checks, so even a minor charge can affect employment decisions. Expungement gives you a chance to make sure that your past actions won’t define your present or future.
Other benefits include the following:
- Reducing barriers to education and student loans
- Restoring peace of mind by resolving any lingering legal matters
- Preventing old records from complicating travel or security clearances
While expungement might not restore every opportunity, it often makes a noticeable difference in how your record appears to such people as landlords and employers.
Who Is Eligible for Expungement in Maryland?
Maryland law allows expungement in several different situations.
Your expungement eligibility also depends on how your case ended and how much time has passed. You may qualify if the following apply:
- You were found not guilty at trial.
- The charge was dismissed.
- The State’s Attorney chose not to prosecute the case.
- The court indefinitely postponed the case.
- The case was resolved through a compromise agreement.
- The court granted probation before judgment (PBJ), except for driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while impaired (DWI).
Some people may also qualify for expungement if they were convicted of a single non-violent offense and later received a full and unconditional pardon from the governor.
Expungement rules can include waiting periods depending on how the case was resolved. For example, certain dispositions may require a waiting period unless you sign a waiver allowing earlier filing. A Baltimore expungement lawyer can review your criminal history and help you understand your options.
Common Cases and Charges That Can Be Expunged
Expungement in Maryland often applies to the following:
- Arrests that resulted in not guilty verdicts
- Charges dismissed before trial
- Cases where the State entered a nolle prosequi (did not prosecute)
- Cases placed on the stet docket (postponed case docket)
- Probation before judgment outcomes (except DUI or DWI cases)
Some traffic offenses may also qualify if they carry the possibility of imprisonment and the case ended without a conviction.
Expungement may also apply when someone was arrested but never formally charged. In those situations, the petition may be filed through the arresting law enforcement agency rather than the court.
Cases involving more serious felonies usually have stricter criteria and longer waiting periods.
Understanding which charges can be expunged and how long you must wait before filing your petition is key to planning your petition. Greenberg Law Offices can help; reach out to us today for your fully confidential case review.
Expungement vs. Sealing: What’s the Difference?
Many people confuse expungement with record sealing. While both limit public access to your criminal record, they are different processes:
- Expungement – Expungement removes records from public view entirely for most purposes. Once granted, it’s as if your record never existed.
- Sealing (Shielding) – Shielding (sometimes called record sealing in other states) limits access to certain records but doesn’t remove them entirely. Some state agencies and courts can still view sealed records under specific circumstances.
Choosing between expungement and sealing depends on your case, the nature of the charge, and your long-term goals. A Baltimore expungement lawyer can explain which option is most appropriate for your circumstances.
The Expungement Process in Maryland
The expungement process in Maryland generally proceeds as follows:
- First, your lawyer will obtain a copy of your criminal history from the Maryland State Police or the court that handled your case.
- Next, your lawyer will review the charges, dispositions, and waiting periods to confirm you qualify under Maryland law.
- Your attorney will file a petition for expungement to the appropriate court. The petition will include all necessary documents, such as court orders and proof of sentence completion.
- Your lawyer will send notice to the appropriate State’s Attorney. The State’s Attorney receives notice and can object within a designated period. Your lawyer can respond to any objections.
- A judge then reviews the petition. In most cases, the court will grant expungement if eligibility requirements are met. Some cases may require a hearing.
- If your petition is granted, the court issues an expungement order. Copies are sent to the relevant entities to remove your record from public databases.
The process can take several months or longer.
Benefits of Working with a Baltimore Expungement Lawyer
Hiring a Baltimore expungement lawyer can make the process smoother and improve your chances of success. Some advantages include your attorney doing the following:
- Identifying all qualifying charges for expungement
- Preparing a complete and accurate petition with supporting documentation
- Communicating with the court and the State’s Attorney on your behalf
- Handling objections or disputes that may arise during the review
- Advising you on whether expungement or sealing is better for your situation
Why Choose Greenberg Law Offices?
Greenberg Law Offices represents Baltimore clients who want to explore expungement and criminal record options.
We pride ourselves on years of experience successfully filing petitions in local courts.
When you work with us, our team handles the legal and procedural details so you can concentrate on your life. We’ll advocate for your record to be cleared, and we’ll keep you informed along the way. Our attorneys provide personalized attention for every client, because we know how important your fresh start is.
