THINKING ABOUT GETTING AN EXPUNGEMENT?

Q: Who can get an expungement?

A: Most persons who have been convicted of a misdemeanor or felony charge.

Q: Are there any charges that do not qualify for an expungement in the State of Louisiana?

A: Yes, here is a list of charges that cannot be expunged from a criminal record:

  1. Crimes of Violence

  2. Sex Crimes

  3. Distribution of Controlled Substances

  4. Domestic Abuse Battery (misdemeanor or felony)

  5. Stalking

  6. Crimes involving or against minors

Q: Are there any waiting periods before an expungement can be filed?

A: Yes. You must wait 5 years from the completion of your sentence or the end of your probation to file an expungement for a misdemeanor. You must wait 10 years from the completion of your sentence or probation to file an expungement for a felony conviction or OWI. You must have completed your probation satisfactorily, completed any classes/treatments, and paid all fines and costs.

** There is no waiting period to file an expungement if the charge was dismissed, a motion to quash was granted, or if you were acquitted.

Q: What if I got another charge after the charge I am trying to expunge, would I still qualify?

A: No, you must not have any other convictions or pending charges during the waiting period.

Q; What is a “First Offender’s Pardon”?

A: According to Louisiana Revised Statue 15:572 B (1), a first offender never previously convicted of a felony shall be pardoned automatically upon completion of his sentence without a recommendation of the Board of Pardons or action by the governor.

**If you qualify for the “First Offenders Pardon” this also qualifies you for an expungement after the respective waiting period has ended.

Q: Ok, I think I may qualify for an expungement. What do I do now?

A: You can contact me via phone call, text, email, or by simply submitting a request for more information below.

Q: How much would it cost for you to file an expungement?

A: My fee is $1,500 for an expungement, regardless if it is a misdemeanor or felony. This includes all fees that will need to be paid to various state agencies when the paperwork is filed.

Make it

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS & WHERE TO GET THEM:

  • Certified Court Minutes (Clerk of Court)

  • Certified Background Check (State Police Headquarters Baton Rouge, LA) (Must be dated within the past 60 days)

  • First Offender’s Pardon (If Applicable) (Clerk of Court)

  • A letter from the DA’s Office stating the charges was dismissed (If Applicable)