Miles Hansford Law Firm
Your Record Restrictions Team
Brian A. Hansford
Partner
Knox L. Allen
Associate
Alpharetta Record Restriction Lawyer
Serving Clients in Fulton County, Forsyth County, and Beyond
If you have ever been arrested or charged with a crime, you may be concerned that your record will affect your future. Even if you were not prosecuted or convicted, a criminal record could have an impact on your job, relationships, and reputation. The good news is that Georgia allows for record restrictions. If eligible, you can keep your criminal record from public scrutiny, giving yourself a chance at a fresh start. Miles Hansford can help you protect your reputation.
Ask our Alpharetta criminal defense attorney to guide you through the record restriction process. Call us today at 770-781-4100 or contact us online. You can also call our 24/7 criminal defense line at 678-343-8075.
How Record Restriction Works
Record restriction (previously called expungement) means that aspects of your criminal history become unavailable to the public and can only be accessed by law enforcement. After your record is restricted, a potential employer would not be able to view your criminal history. However, if you are later charged with a different crime, officers of the law may review your full record.
Some records are eligible for restriction, and some are not. Most felony convictions are not eligible, but an arrest for a felony charge that was not referred for prosecution may be.
Record restriction for eligible records happens automatically if you were arrested after July 1, 2013:
- Two years after a misdemeanor
- Four years after most felonies
- Seven years after a violent crime or sex offenses
Some drug charges may be restricted after five years if you complete a drug court program. For arrests before July 1, 2013, you must apply for record restriction.
How We Can Help
Depending on your record, your case’s final disposition, and various other factors, record restriction can be complicated. Our Alpharetta criminal defense attorneys understands the impact your record has on your life. We can advise you of your options, walk you through the process, and even file petitions for restriction for you.
Contact our offices at 770-781-4100or our 24/7 criminal defense line at 678-343-8075 to speak to an experienced criminal defense attorney today.