An arrest record can be difficult to navigate around. Whether justified or not, it may lessen the chances of securing a job, finding a place to live, or receiving a loan. While record expungement won’t shield past transgressions from the authorities, it will remove public access to it.
Cost of Expungement
An arrest that did not result in a conviction can be expunged under Louisiana Revised Statute 44:9. The cost of expungement is $550 and must be paid in full at the time of filing. It will take 60 days to complete the process and another 30 to 60 days to receive a Certificate of Compliance in the mail from the Louisiana State Police.
Felony Offenses
First-time felony offenses may be eligible for two methods of expungement—first offender pardon or dismissal of conviction. Felony offenses need to be entered under Article 893 of the Louisiana Code of Criminal Procedure, which puts the offender under a probation period. If probation is completed successfully, then the arrest record may be expunged.
Misdemeanors and DUI/DWI Convictions
Similar to the expungement method above, a client’s lawyer must file a motion to list the case under Article 894, which also calls for the successful completion of a probationary period. A motion can be filed to dismiss and expunge the charge if the client meets all markers of probation. For DUI/DWI charges, an expungement will not restore a suspended driver’s license.
Record expungement doesn’t always have a clear, uniform process and should be handled by an experienced attorney. At NOLA Criminal Law, we believe you deserve the chance to start fresh. Contact us today at (504) 571-9529 for a free consultation.
