Why Expunge My Criminal Record?
There are many benefits of expunging your New Jersey criminal record. Here are some common reasons why you should do it now rather than later.
Looking for a job. Most people want to clean their record for reasons related to employment. Over 92% of employers perform background checks on applicants before making a hiring decision. Since federal and most state laws do not protect people from discrimination based on criminal history, employers can legally choose to not hire a person who has a criminal record. In fact, most employers do this. An expungement will prevent employers from seeing your record in a background check. Furthermore, during an interview you can legally say you’ve never been arrested if that record has been expunged.
Already have a job. Even if you are currently employed, it may be beneficial to get an expungement in case you need to change jobs or are laid off. That way you can seek new employment without worrying about your past. Job security has weakened since the economic downturn, and now more than ever, it’s important to be prepared.
Self-employed. If you are self-employed, you do not have to worry about employers searching for your criminal history. However, you may be concerned about business partners, associates, and clients digging up your past. People like to know who they’re doing business with and one negative review of your company can reduce revenue. Furthermore, your record may be taken into consideration while negotiating government contracts.
Renting an apartment. Most housing laws do not protect people against discrimination based on prior criminal records. Therefore, landlords can legally refuse to rent properties to “convicts” and “felons.” You may be limited to housing in areas with high crime rates or poor quality of life. Getting a New Jersey expungement now will make it impossible for a landlord to see your record.
New charges. If you are charged with a new offense, it will prevent you from filing for an expungement until the charge is resolved. The outcome of that charge may make you ineligible for applying altogether. Therefore, filing now can help you expunge your current records and minimize the impact of any future charges. For example, if you have been arrested once and you file for an expungement now, you can clear that record. If you are arrested again later, a background search will only show 1 arrest. On the other hand, if you choose to wait, you may be ineligible to expunge either arrest and a background search will show 2 arrests.
Laws might change. In New Jersey, expungements are governed by laws that are currently in effect, not laws at the time of the arrest/conviction. Some records that may be eligible now could become ineligible if the law changes. Therefore, you should take advantage of the law now because you might not have another chance in the future.
Personal reasons. A criminal record will negatively impact your opportunity for adopting a child or coaching a little league team. Additionally, many people place value on their reputation and standing in the community. After an expungement, many people feel like a weight has been lifted and that it’s a new beginning.
How Do I Get my Record Expunged
Getting your record expunged is simple. First you must figure out if you’re eligible for an expungement. (Try our free eligiblity test here). ExpungeMyRecordNJ can get you started on your way to freedom and saving you time and money. Contact us today!
