Very Few Federal Charges Are Eligible for Expungement
It is quite severe to have a federal conviction on your record. In addition to the possibility of serving time in prison, it may also mean that you will be unable to find work, a place to live, or even get a student loan once your sentence is completed.
Even after you complete probation, you may still have difficulty obtaining all of the possibilities you formerly had. Many people go through this after serving their sentence and wanting to resume their lives as they were. Is it possible to have your federal conviction erased after you’ve finished your sentence? Keep reading to get the facts and contact Chambers Law Firm at 714-760-4088 for a legal consultation.
When Can Federal Convictions Be Forgiven?
Obtaining a federal expungement involves making it as though the conviction never happened. Your criminal record is effectively wiped clean, and no one can search public records for your arrest or conviction.
The majority of federal offenses, however, are not eligible for expungement. Only persons convicted of a minor violation under the Controlled Substances Act can have their records expunged. Because this is such a restricted range of charges, most persons convicted of a federal crime will not be eligible for expungement.
Pardons from the Federal Government
Even if a person does not meet the requirements for expungement, they may be eligible for a federal pardon. Because the conviction remains on your federal criminal record, a pardon differs from an expungement. This means that you cannot deny having a criminal past while seeking for a job.
When a pardon is obtained, however, the sentence of those who are currently serving time is instantly terminated. A pardon also offers additional advantages, such as permitting someone to leave the nation, something they would not have been allowed to do before.
Regrettably, federal pardons are rarely granted. The President must sign them, and that does not happen very often, regardless of who is in power at the time. It’s also worth noting that anyone seeking a federal pardon must wait at least five years from the date of their conviction before submitting an application. You must also mention precisely why you are seeking a pardon in your application, as well as offer any supporting documentation.
Call Today to Learn About Your Potential Federal Expungement Options
If you have been convicted of a federal crime, it is critical to recognize that you still have choices. You may be eligible for an expungement in addition to a pardon. Our criminal defense attorneys can assist you with your application and ensure that you have the highest chance of success. Call Chambers Law Firm now at 714-760-4088 to see how we can help.
