Yes, you can get certain types of arrest or court records expunged in Oklahoma.
To expunge a record means to conceal it so that it’s not accessible to members of the public. This way, parties like employers and insurance companies cannot see your criminal history should they conduct a background search on you.
However, there are conditions that your case has to meet to qualify for expungement, not to mention that some crimes cannot be sealed this way at all. Wondering whether you can get your record expunged? Review your case with a criminal defense lawyer to understand the requirements and how to go about it.
When a legal professional ascertains that you’re eligible for expungement, they’ll help you gather the documents required to apply and show proof of qualification.
First, you need to file a written petition addressing it to the district court where the incident and your trial occurred. The judge’s office will set a hearing date within 30 days of petitioning.
During the hearing, your criminal defense lawyer will convince the judge that your character, show of remorse, and other factors qualify you for expungement. Should the judge rule that you’re not eligible, you can appeal for partial expungement to conceal parts of the record.
Oklahoma law is complicated when it comes to expunging criminal records. Some crimes that are categorized as inexpungible can sometimes be sealed if the offender receives an official pardon from the governor.
Always consult an attorney to understand how different laws impact the likelihood of having your criminal history hidden.
You can get your record expunged in Oklahoma if:
However, not all crimes qualify for expungement. For instance, violent crimes like abduction and armed robbery cannot be sealed from the public.
If the judge gives a go-ahead to expunge your record, the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI) will hide this information from relevant parties. However, law enforcement and district courts may still be able to access them when necessary, especially the arrest records.
Opportunities that you couldn’t access due to your criminal record are now within reach. An expungement also means regaining your freedoms, such as the right to vote.
A criminal history can taint your future in unimaginable ways. If you’re wondering whether you can get your record expunged, start by reviewing your case with AMA Law in Oklahoma.
Criminal defense attorneys understand the law better and are likely to know whether you qualify within your first session. Schedule a free consultation with us by calling 405-708-7789 or filling out our online contact form.