Can you Get a Domestic Violence 3rd Conviction Expunged in Alabama?
Clear Your Record and Reclaim Your Future
If you've been convicted of Domestic Violence in the Third Degree in Alabama, you might feel that your past is holding you back. The good news is that you can take steps to clear your record through expungement, allowing you to move forward with confidence. As an experienced expungement lawyer, I specialize in helping individuals like you navigate this complex process.
Watch: How to Get an Expungement for Domestic Violence 3rd Degree in Alabama
Why Expungement is Crucial
Domestic Violence 3rd Degree is a serious misdemeanor in Alabama that can have long-lasting effects on your life. However, expungement offers a path to remove this conviction from your record, helping you:
Enhance Job Prospects: A clean record can open doors to better employment opportunities.
Improve Housing Options: Expungement can help eliminate barriers when seeking housing.
Restore Peace of Mind: Expunging your record means you can move forward without the shadow of a criminal conviction.
Watch: Why You Should Pursue Expungement After a Domestic Violence 3rd Degree Conviction
Eligibility for Expungement in Alabama
Not all cases are eligible for expungement, but if your Domestic Violence 3rd Degree charge meets certain criteria, you might qualify:
Dismissed Charges: If your case was dismissed, with or without prejudice, you may be eligible.
Acquittal: If you were found not guilty, you could pursue expungement.
Dropped Charges Post-Diversion Program: Charges that were dropped following the completion of a court-approved diversion program might also be eligible.
Conviction: As of the latest updates, if you were convicted of Domestic Violence 3rd Degree, you may now be eligible for expungement if:
You have paid all associated fines, court costs, and restitution.
At least three years have passed since you completed your sentence, including any probation or parole.
The Expungement Process: What to Expect
The expungement process can seem daunting, but I’m here to guide you every step of the way:
Initial Consultation: We’ll start with an assessment to determine your eligibility for expungement.
Filing Your Petition: If eligible, I’ll prepare and file a petition on your behalf, providing all necessary documentation to support your case.
Court Review and Hearing: The court will review your petition and may schedule a hearing, where I will represent you to advocate for your expungement.
Final Order: If granted, the court will issue an order to expunge your record, removing the conviction from public view.
Client Success Stories
We have now had 4 domestic violence 3rd convictions erased.
Important Note: Expungement and Gun Rights Restoration
While expunging a Domestic Violence 3rd Degree conviction can clear your record, it’s important to understand that an expungement does not automatically restore your gun rights. According to Ala. Code § 15-27-15, an expungement order does not entitle an individual to ship, transport, possess, or receive a firearm.
Restoring Gun Rights After Expungement
To restore your gun rights after your conviction has been expunged, you must obtain a Certificate of Pardon with Restoration of Civil and Political Rights from the Alabama Board of Pardons and Paroles. This is a separate legal process that involves:
Filing a Pardon Application: After obtaining an expungement, you will need to file an application for a pardon with the Alabama Board of Pardons and Paroles.
Board Review: The Board will conduct an investigation and may hold a hearing to determine whether to grant the pardon and restore your rights.
Certificate of Pardon: If granted, this certificate will restore your right to ship, transport, possess, or receive a firearm, along with other civil rights.
Without this pardon, the expungement of your conviction will not restore your ability to legally own or possess a firearm in Alabama. I can guide you through both the expungement and pardon processes to help you fully restore your rights.
