An interaction with law enforcement can have long-term consequences, especially if that interaction results in a criminal conviction. Having a criminal record, even if it didn’t result in jail time, may make it harder to get a job, rent an apartment, or even visit another country. That doesn’t mean those things are going to be impossible. There are some things a person can do if they have been convicted of a crime in the past but sincerely want to turn their life around.
Expungement
Expungement is a legal process that results in sealing the criminal record. The rules related to expungement vary by jurisdiction, and this option isn’t equally available to everyone with a conviction. Courts may limit the number of offenses that can be expunged, the type of convictions that can be expunged, or the time frame that must pass after the completion of a sentence before they will consider expungement. Those interested in using this method to move on with their lives can learn more at https://www.kanialaw.com/oklahoma-expungement-attorneys/different-kinds-of-record-expungements.
Honesty
Most adult criminal records, unless they are expunged, are public. Anyone who wants to know about a person’s criminal history can easily find this information. It’s even easier if the arrest was featured on the news or talked about on social media. Expungement can’t even erase information that’s already on the internet.
Whether they’re waiting until they are eligible for expungement or there is information online about the offense, the best thing for someone who is interviewing for a job or an apartment to do is to be honest. Many employers today are reasonable and understand that people make mistakes. If they discover the criminal record after they’ve made a hiring decision or rented the home, the consequences could be embarrassing.
Letters of Recommendation
A criminal record only tells part of the story. While knowing what happened prior to the conviction might be important, it is even more relevant to know what someone has done since they were sentenced. A letter of recommendation from someone familiar with the situation might be just what an employer or rental manager needs to take a chance on an applicant. Letters of recommendation should come from people who are trusted in the community. Volunteering is a great way to make a positive impression on someone who might be willing to write a compelling letter of recommendation.
The easiest way for someone convicted of a crime to put their past behind them is to get their record expunged. Although the courts might require a few years to pass, the result may be well worth the wait. With an expungement, a person can legally answer no when asked if they have ever been convicted of a crime.
In some industries, such as education, law enforcement, and health care, disclosure might be required. Expungement gives people the chance to get a fresh start, without the stigma of their past convictions. After expungement has been granted, they will no longer have to worry about who will find out what they did years ago and judge them without knowing the circumstances.
