Expungement LawyerAlbuquerque
Expungement is a legal process that allows individuals to have certain criminal records sealed or erased from public view. In New Mexico, expungement can help you move forward with your life without the burden of a past criminal record impacting future opportunities. Once an expungement is granted, your criminal record is no longer accessible to the public, including employers, landlords, and educational institutions.
At Rudolph B. Chavez Attorney At Law, Attorney Rudy Chavez can evaluate your case for potential expungement and guide you through the process. With 40 years of professional experience, he is well-versed in our state’s expungement laws and procedures. With his help, you may be able to overcome the obstacles of a criminal record to forge a brighter and more productive future.
Learn your options in a free initial consultation with our Albuquerque expungement attorney. Call Rudolph B. Chavez Attorney At Law at (505) 390-7650 or email us on our contact form today.
Expungement Eligibility in New Mexico
Eligibility for expungement in New Mexico depends on several factors, including the type of crime and the time elapsed since the completion of the sentence.
Certain crimes are eligible for expungement, such as:
- Misdemeanors: Non-violent misdemeanor offenses may be expunged after the successful completion of the sentence and a specified waiting period.
- Certain felonies: Some non-violent felony offenses may be eligible for expungement under specific conditions.
- Acquittals and dismissals: Charges that did not result in a conviction, including cases that were dismissed or resulted in an acquittal, can typically be expunged.
- Pre-prosecution diversion referrals: Cases where you were referred to a diversion program before formal prosecution, resulting in no charges or conviction, can typically be expunged.
- Juvenile offenses: Crimes committed by minors can be expunged under different rules and conditions, often with more lenient eligibility criteria.
What Crimes Cannot Be Expunged?
Certain cases are not eligible for expungement, such as crimes involving violence, like aggravated assault or homicide. Other ineligible cases can include convictions related to sex offenses, especially those requiring sex offender registration, and individuals with multiple convictions for the same or similar offenses.
What Is the Expungement Process?
The expungement process involves several steps, which may include:
- Eligibility assessment: This determines whether your criminal record qualifies for expungement under New Mexico law.
- Filing a petition: This includes preparing and filing a petition for expungement with the appropriate court, including all necessary documentation and evidence supporting the request.
- Notification and hearing: Relevant parties, such as the prosecutor’s office, are notified of the expungement petition. A court hearing may be scheduled to review the petition and allow for any objections.
- Court decision: The judge will review the petition and any objections. If the court grants the expungement, the order will be issued to seal the criminal record.
- Implementation: Once the expungement order is granted, all necessary agencies and organizations are notified to update their records accordingly.
The Value of Legal Representation for Expungement
Navigating the expungement process can be complex and requires a thorough understanding of New Mexico’s legal system. At Rudolph B. Chavez Attorney At Law, we can help determine whether you meet the eligibility criteria and identify any potential obstacles. If eligible, we can prepare a compelling petition, including the necessary documentation to present a strong case.
Attorney Rudy Chavez can navigate the procedural requirements and deadlines to efficiently handle your expungement request. He can represent you in court hearings, respond to objections, and advocate for a positive outcome. Where successful, he can help ensure that all relevant parties update their records to reflect your expungement, maximizing the benefits of a clean slate.
Need more information or want to discuss your case? Contact us online or call (505) 390-7650 for legal help.
Why Clients Choose Us
When Your Future is On the Line, We're Here to Help
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Client-Centered ApproachYour voice matters in your defense, and we ensure it is heard through a collaborative planning process. By involving you in every decision, we help achieve the best possible outcome together.
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Compassionate DefenseWe fight for your rights with empathy and understanding, treating each case with the care it deserves.
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Decades of ExperienceWith over 40 years of legal experience, Attorney Chavez brings unparalleled knowledge to your defense.
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Affordable RepresentationNo one should be without legal help due to financial constraints. He offers flexible payment options to make sure you receive the defense you deserve.
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Free Consultations AvailableGet started on your case with a free consultation today. We are here to provide the initial guidance you need without any cost to you.
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Hablamos EspañolWe are fluent in Spanish, ensuring clear and effective communication for all our clients.