A criminal charge, even without a conviction, can follow you for years. It can affect your ability to get a job, rent an apartment, enroll in school, or obtain a professional license. Fortunately, North Carolina law allows many people to clear their records through a process called expungement (also known as expunction). At Denninger & Philbeck, we help clients reclaim their future by removing eligible criminal records from public view.

What Is an Expungement?

An expungement is a legal process that removes a criminal charge or conviction from your public record. If granted, it’s as though the charge or conviction never happened.

North Carolina’s expungement laws have expanded significantly in recent years, allowing more individuals to seek relief than ever before. However, the process remains complex and highly technical.

Who Is Eligible for an Expungement?

Eligibility depends on the type of charge and how it was resolved. Common situations where expungement may be available include:

• Charges that were dismissed or resulted in a “not guilty” verdict
• First-time nonviolent misdemeanor or felony convictions (after a waiting period)
• Convictions for offenses committed as a juvenile or under the age of 18
• Identity theft charges in certain circumstances

Each type of expungement has specific eligibility requirements, including mandatory waiting periods, good conduct provisions, and limits on prior convictions. Our attorneys will evaluate your case to determine whether you qualify and what type of petition is appropriate.

How the Process Works

Filing for an expungement is a legal proceeding that involves:

• Reviewing your criminal history to confirm eligibility
• Drafting and filing the correct expungement petition(s)
• Notifying the district attorney and other required parties
• Waiting for the petition to be reviewed and approved by a judge
• Obtaining certified copies of the expungement order, if granted

The process can take several months to complete, and errors or omissions can cause delays or denials. Our attorneys handle the process from start to finish, ensuring your petition is accurate, timely, and fully compliant with North Carolina law.

Why You Need a Criminal Defense Attorney

While it is possible to file for expungement on your own, the process is not always straightforward. Different statutes apply depending on the nature of the charge, your age at the time of the offense, and your overall record. Mistakes in the petition can delay or even prevent you from clearing your record.

At Denninger & Philbeck, we provide:

• A detailed review of your eligibility
• Correct identification of the applicable statute
• Complete preparation and filing of all paperwork
• Strategic handling of any objections or hearings
• Follow-up with court and law enforcement agencies

We make the process efficient, understandable, and tailored to your specific needs.

Your Past Doesn’t Have to Define Your Future

If you’ve been arrested or convicted in North Carolina, you may not have to live with that record forever. Let us help you determine if expungement is an option and, if so, take the steps to clear your name.

At Denninger & Philbeck, we believe in second chances. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let’s talk about how we can help you move forward.