Put an Old Charge Behind You for Good
An arrest or conviction from years ago can still show up on background checks today — costing you jobs, housing, and opportunities you've already earned. If you're ready to clear your criminal record in New Jersey, I can help you understand whether you qualify and walk you through every step of the process.
What Expungement Actually Does for You
Expungement is a legal process that removes qualifying arrests, charges, and convictions from public records. Once your record is expunged, it no longer appears on standard background checks run by employers, landlords, or licensing boards. You can legally answer "no" to questions about prior arrests or convictions on most applications. It doesn't erase what happened — but it puts it where it belongs: in the past, not in your way.
Arrests That Never Led to a Conviction
If you were arrested but the charges were dismissed, downgraded, or you were acquitted, that arrest record can still appear on background checks. In many cases, these records are among the most straightforward to expunge — and most people don't realize they're eligible.
Disorderly Persons Offenses
Disorderly persons offenses — the equivalent of misdemeanors in New Jersey — are often expungeable after a waiting period. These include many common municipal court matters that people carry for years without knowing relief is available.
Indictable Offenses (Felonies)
Some indictable convictions are eligible for expungement under New Jersey law, typically after a longer waiting period and subject to the nature of the offense. Not every conviction qualifies, but more people are eligible than they expect. A brief conversation is usually enough to give you a clear answer.
Drug Offenses
New Jersey has specific provisions for expunging certain drug-related convictions, including some that previously would not have qualified. If you were convicted of a drug offense and have stayed out of trouble since, it's worth finding out where you stand.
How the Expungement Process Works
Expungements in New Jersey run through Superior Court, not municipal court — but the process is manageable with the right guidance. I handle the paperwork, filings, and follow-through so you don't have to figure it out alone.
- I review your record and assess your eligibility based on offense type and waiting periods under NJ law
- I prepare and file the expungement petition with the appropriate Superior Court
- Required notices go to the relevant state and local agencies
- If no objections are raised, the court issues a final order of expungement
- You receive certified copies of the order to keep for your records
The timeline varies, but most straightforward expungements move through the process within a few months.
Who Typically Qualifies — and Who Doesn't
Eligibility for expungement in New Jersey depends on several factors: the type of offense, how much time has passed since the conviction or completion of your sentence, and whether you have other convictions on your record. Certain serious offenses — including most violent crimes and some drug distribution charges — are not eligible under state law. But a wide range of arrests, disorderly persons convictions, and even some indictable offenses can qualify. The only way to know for certain is to look at your specific record, and I'm glad to do that with you.
Why People Wait — and Why You Shouldn't
Most people who could benefit from an expungement put it off for one reason: they're not sure they qualify, and they don't want to bring it up. I hear this often. There's nothing unusual about this request. Expungement is a routine legal process — one that exists precisely because the law recognizes that people move on. If an old charge is still showing up when you apply for a job or a place to live, that's a practical problem with a practical solution. One conversation is all it takes to find out whether that solution is available to you.
Common Coverage Questions
Answers Designed To Keep You Protected
How long do I have to wait before I can apply for an expungement in New Jersey?
Waiting periods depend on the type of offense. For indictable convictions, the standard waiting period is six years from the date of conviction, payment of fines, or release from custody — whichever is latest. Disorderly persons offenses generally carry a five-year waiting period. Arrests that didn't result in a conviction often have no waiting period at all. Because the rules involve multiple variables, it's worth going through your specific record together rather than relying on general timelines.Will an expungement remove my record from background check websites?
Expungement removes your record from official government databases, which are the source most employers and landlords use. Private background check websites don't always update immediately, but they are legally required to reflect expunged records. If a site continues to show an expunged record, you have legal grounds to demand its removal.Can I get a DWI expunged in New Jersey?
No. DWI convictions are motor vehicle offenses under New Jersey law, not criminal offenses, and they are not eligible for expungement. They remain on your driving record permanently. If you're dealing with a DWI charge, my DWI defense work focuses on fighting the charge before a conviction occurs — which is why early legal help matters.How do I find out if I qualify for an expungement?
The most reliable way is to go through your record with an attorney who knows New Jersey expungement law. I can tell you how to request an official copy of your record from the State Police. This is the only reliable source. I offer a free consultation, and in most cases I can give you a clear answer about eligibility during that first conversation. There's no obligation, and nothing you share with me goes any further.What does an expungement cost?
My fees are straightforward, and I'm committed to keeping legal services accessible. There are also court filing fees set by the state. I'll explain all costs upfront during your consultation — no surprises. For many clients, the cost of an expungement is modest compared to what a clean record makes possible.
Serving Gloucester County and South Jersey
Law office of WIlliam A. Sheehan
I've been practicing in Gloucester County since 1979, and I work with clients across the region — including those in Deptford, Washington Township, Glassboro, West Deptford, and Monroe Township. For expungement matters, I also assist clients throughout South Jersey, including Camden County, Salem County, and beyond. If you're ready to clear your criminal record in New Jersey, my office is an easy call or message away.
