Erase Your Juvenile Record with an Oklahoma Expungement Lawyer
Perhaps the most devastating ramification of a conviction of a juvenile offense is the lasting impact of a criminal record. For some young people convicted of juvenile crimes, a criminal record threatens the ability to find meaningful employment or engage in educational opportunities. In short, a youthful mistake can destroy someone’s ability to create a productive future. Get a fresh start by calling an Oklahoma expungement attorney who can help you clear your juvenile record.
Expungement of Juvenile Records in Oklahoma
If you were convicted of a crime that was committed prior to your 18th birthday, you may be eligible to have your court records sealed and your arrest record purged. Expungement of juvenile records is outlined under Title 22 O.S. §18, and is also covered under Oklahoma Statutes pertaining to juvenile court proceedings, found in 10A O.S. § 2-6-109:
- Title 22 O.S. §18 – If a person was under the age of 18 at the time the offense was committed and has received a full pardon for the offense, he or she is authorized to petition for expungement
- Title 10A O.S. § 2-6-109– A person who has reached 21 year of age or older may petition the juvenile court for an expungement of a juvenile record if three specific criteria are met:
- He or she has not been arrested for an adult offense and has no current or pending charge or indictment
- He or she has not been convicted of any criminal offense nor has been the subject of a deferred sentence
- All court costs, fines, and court requirements have been paid and completed for juvenile proceedings
Many people mistakenly believe that all juvenile records are confidential and that expungment of juvenile records is automatic. However, not only is a juvenile record not automatically expunged, but the court and law enforcement agencies can protest the expungement, and can even have juvenile records unsealed. For help filing a petition to clear your juvenile record, call an expungement lawyer in Oklahoma with the experience to successfully handle your case.
The Oklahoma expungement attorneys with the Oklahoma City criminal defense firm of Phillips & Bailey have helped countless Oklahomans clear their criminal records. To find out if you qualify, schedule your free consultation with a qualified Oklahoma expungement lawyer.
