Successful Expungements Lawyer Helping Greenville Clients Clear Their Records
Generally speaking, an expungement of a criminal charge is an order to the appropriate authorities to destroy the record of said crime. This includes all evidence of the charge: fingerprints, mug shots, booking records, etc. The importance of a clean criminal record cannot be overstated in regards to housing and employment opportunities. Attorney Richard Warder has been helping South Carolina residents successfully secure expungements for over four decades.
Expungement Eligibility
Not all criminal charges are eligible for expungement, especially if you were found guilty and served time. Typically, in order to qualify for expungement, a crime needs to have happened long ago or when the defendant was a young person, be nonviolent in nature, and/or a first offense. The following charges are not eligible for expungement:
- DUI
- Driving with an unlawful alcohol concentration (DUAC)
- Vehicle violations, such as reckless driving
- Serious or violent crimes, such as murder or sexual assault
- Most recreational violations, such as hunting, gaming, or fishing offenses
Expungement vs. Pardon
Crimes that are ineligible for expungement may be cleared with a pardon. Contrary to popular belief, you do not need the permission of the state governor to be pardoned. Though it may not be a viable option for everyone, attorney Richard Warder can assess your case and advise you for or against a pardon attempt. If we think you stand a good chance, we’ll help you build your case for the Department of Probation, Pardon, and Parole Services.