NJ Expungement

NJ Expungement

Having a criminal record can be a lifelong barrier to jobs, housing, education, and more in New Jersey. Expungement provides a legal process to clear eligible offenses from your record and relieve collateral consequences.

An expungement in New Jersey essentially removes convictions and arrests from public view and many government databases. While not destroyed, they become inaccessible for most purposes.

Understanding when you qualify, how to apply, and what relief an expungement provides is key to overcoming a criminal past in NJ. Here is an overview of the expungement process.

What is Expunged in New Jersey?

In NJ, you can potentially expunge arrests that did not lead to conviction, convictions for low-level crimes, and convictions for certain indictable offenses after 10 years. Some examples include:

• Disorderly persons offenses
• Petty disorderly persons offenses
• Municipal ordinance violations
• Low-level drug crimes
• Non-violent indictable offenses

However, there are also many ineligible offenses like sex crimes, corruption, and serious violent felonies.

Benefits of an Expungement in NJ

The main benefits of expunging a criminal record in New Jersey include:

• Removing convictions and arrests from public record
• Legally being allowed to deny the offense occurred
• Eliminating barriers to jobs, housing, education, loans etc.
• Restoring certain lost rights
• Improving immigration status for non-citizens

While not erased, an expunged offense becomes hidden from most background checks and databases.

Christine Twomey

2024-03-21

Just had my Divorce case settled 2 months ago after having a horrible experience with another firm. I couldn’t be happier with Claire Banks and Elizabeth Garvey with their outstanding professionalism in doing so with Spodek Law Group. Any time I needed questions answered they were always prompt in doing so with all my uncertainties after 30 yrs of marriage.I feel from the bottom of my heart you will NOT be disappointed with either one. Thanks a million.

Brendan huisman

2024-03-18

Alex Zhik contacted me almost immediately when I reached out to Spodek for a consultation and was able to effectively communicate the path forward/consequences of my legal issue. I immediately agreed to hire Alex for his services and did not regret my choice. He was able to cover my case in court (with 1 day notice) and not only was he able to push my case down, he carefully negotiated a dismissal of the charge altogether. I highly recommend Spodek, and more specifically, Alex Zhik for all of your legal issues. Thanks guys!

Guerline Menard

2024-03-18

Thanks again Spodek law firm, particularly Esq Claire Banks who stood right there with us up to the finish line. Attached photos taken right outside of the court building and the smile on our faces represented victory, a breath of fresh air and satisfaction. We are very happy that this is over and we can move on with our lives. Thanks Spodek law 🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙌🏼❤️

Keisha Parris

2024-03-15

Believe every single review here about Alex Z!! From our initial consultation, it was evident that Alex possessed a profound understanding of criminal law and a fierce dedication to his clients rights. Throughout the entirety of my case, Alex exhibited unparalleled professionalism and unwavering commitment. What sets Alex apart is not only his legal expertise but also his genuine compassion for his clients. He took the time to thoroughly explain my case, alleviating any concerns I had along the way. His exact words were “I’m not worried about it”. His unwavering support and guidance were invaluable throughout the entire process. I am immensely grateful for Alex's exceptional legal representation and wholeheartedly recommend his services to anyone in need of a skilled criminal defense attorney. Alex Z is not just a lawyer; he is a beacon of hope for those navigating the complexities of the legal system. If you find yourself in need of a dedicated and competent legal advocate, look no further than Alex Z.

Taïko Beauty

2024-03-15

I don’t know where to start, I can write a novel about this firm, but one thing I will say is that having my best interest was their main priority since the beginning of my case which was back in Winter 2019. Miss Claire Banks, one of the best Attorneys in the firm represented me very well and was very professional, respectful, and truthful. Not once did she leave me in the dark, in fact she presented all options and routes that could possibly be considered for my case and she reinsured me that no matter what I decided to do, her and the team will have my back and that’s exactly what happened. Not only will I be liberated from this case, also, I will enjoy my freedom and continue to be a mother to my first born son and will have no restrictions with accomplishing my goals in life. Now that’s what I call victory!! I thank the Lord, My mother, Claire, and the Spodek team for standing by me and fighting with me. Words can’t describe how grateful I am to have the opportunity to work with this team. I’m very satisfied, very pleased with their performance, their hard work, and their diligence. Thank you team!

Anthony Williams

2024-03-12

Hey, how you guys doing? Good afternoon my name is Anthony Williams I just want to give a great shout out to the team of. Spodek law group. It is such a honor to use them and to use their assistance through this whole case from start to finish. They did everything that they said they was gonna do and if it ever comes down to it, if I ever have to use them again, hands-down they will be the first law office at the top of my list, thank you guys so much. It was a pleasure having you guys by my side so if you guys ever need them, do not hesitate to pick up the phone and give them a call.

Loveth Okpedo

2024-03-12

Very professional, very transparent, over all a great experience

Bee L

2024-02-28

Amazing experience with Spodek! Very professional lawyers who take your case seriously. They treated me with respect, were always available, and answered any and all questions. They were able to help me very successfully and removed a huge stress. Highly recommend.

divesh patel

2024-02-24

I can't recommend Alex Zhik and Spodek Law Firm highly enough for their exceptional legal representation and personal mentorship. From the moment I engaged their services in October 2022, Alex took the time to understand my case thoroughly and provided guidance every step of the way. Alex's dedication to my case went above and beyond my expectations. His expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to achieving the best possible outcome were evident throughout the entire process. He took the time to mentor me, ensuring I understood the legal complexities involved to make informed decisions. Alex is the kind of guy you would want to have a beer with and has made a meaningful impact on me. I also want to acknowledge Todd Spodek, the leader of the firm, who played a crucial role in my case. His leadership and support bolstered the efforts of Alex, and his involvement highlighted the firm's commitment to excellence. Thanks to Alex Zhik and Todd Spodek, I achieved the outcome I desired, and I am incredibly grateful for their professionalism, expertise, and genuine care. If you're in need of legal representation, look no further than this outstanding team.

Load more

Google rating score: 4.9 of 5, based on 736 reviews

Eligibility for Expungement in New Jersey

To qualify for expungement in NJ, you must meet all requirements such as:

• Crime is eligible for expungement
• You have no pending charges
• All court-ordered terms completed
• Mandatory waiting period has passed
• You have not expunged another offense

The waiting period is 5-10 years depending on the crime. An attorney can advise if you meet the criteria.

The Expungement Process in NJ

To clear your record in New Jersey, you must file a petition in Superior Court. The basic process includes:

1. Filing and serving the expungement petition
2. Attending the court hearing
3. Court issues expungement order if approved
4. Distributing orders to agencies to remove records

The prosecutor is notified and can oppose the petition. But if approved, agencies must comply.

Effect of an Expungement Order

Once granted an expungement order in NJ, agencies must remove your records including:

• State Police criminal history
• Corrections and probation records
• Court files and docket entries
• Local police records

These become confidential. Private background checks may still show something, but details cannot be released.

Limitations of Expungement in New Jersey

While expungement provides extensive relief, there are some limitations in New Jersey:

• Government agencies may still see expunged records
• Schools, employers, landlords can still ask about expunged crimes
• Does not erase criminal history held by federal agencies
• May not remove sex offender registration requirements

Also, if you expunge one offense, you cannot expunge other convictions again. Consult with counsel on any restrictions.

Finding an Expungement Attorney in NJ

Navigating New Jersey’s complex expungement process requires an experienced criminal law attorney. They will:

• Review your entire criminal record
• Determine your eligibility for expungement
• Handle the petition process from start to finish
• Advocate and obtain the expungement order
• Distribute the orders to clear your records

Don’t attempt expungement without legal guidance. The right attorney ensures errors that could deny relief are avoided.

Regain your future through New Jersey record expungement. Contact an attorney today to explore your options.