Expungement Lawyers in Delaware County, Media, PA

Imagine having a past record that follows you around—potential employers, landlords, and others have the ability to see it, no matter how long ago or minor the incident may have been. It can feel unfair, especially when you’re trying to move forward. At Thompson & Donati Law, our expungement lawyers in Delaware County, Media, PA, are dedicated to helping you get a fresh start by removing or sealing eligible records. With the right guidance and support, you can reduce the impact of a past record and open new doors for your future.

Whether you’re dealing with an old misdemeanor or a non-conviction, our team is here to help you understand your options. Let’s dive into Pennsylvania’s expungement laws and how we can work together to restore your privacy.

Pennsylvania’s expungement laws aren’t as broad as those in other states, but several options still allow you to clear certain records. Here’s what can generally be expunged in Pennsylvania:

• Non-convictions
• Completed diversion programs
• Summary convictions after a five-year arrest-free period
• Records for individuals over 70 with a decade of arrest-free living

Each case has specific eligibility requirements, and our experienced criminal defense attorneys in Media, PA, are here to guide you through the process. We’ll make sure you understand the details and handle the paperwork, so you have the best possible chance of success.

Pennsylvania allows expungement for a select few categories, and our expungement lawyers will take a close look at your case to see where you might qualify.

Non-Convictions

For cases that didn’t lead to a conviction, such as acquittals, dismissals, or withdrawn charges, expungement can be available immediately. The type of charge doesn’t matter—what’s important is that there was no conviction on your record. Our team can help you file for expungement so you can fully put these incidents behind you.

Completed Diversion Programs

Programs like the ARD (Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition) program, Section 17, and other diversionary options in Pennsylvania allow for expungement upon successful completion. There may be a short waiting period depending on the program, but once it’s complete, we can help you file to remove these records, freeing you to move forward without the shadow of a minor offense.

Summary Convictions

Were you convicted of a minor summary offense? In Pennsylvania, you can file for expungement if you’ve stayed out of trouble for at least five years. Summary convictions include minor infractions, like disorderly conduct, and carry lighter sentences. Once your record is clear for five years, our expungement attorneys can assist in clearing these charges from your history.

Individuals Over 70

If you’re over the age of 70 and have been arrest-free for at least 10 years, you may be eligible for expungement even if you have a felony record. This rare provision in Pennsylvania law allows seniors to clear past offenses, ensuring their records better reflect their lives today.

Not every record is eligible for expungement, but Pennsylvania offers an alternative through its record sealing law. Record sealing limits access to certain misdemeanors, which can prevent them from being seen by the public or by potential employers, giving you greater privacy.

Which Misdemeanors Can Be Sealed?

Some misdemeanors are automatically sealed, while others require a petition to the court. Offenses like illegal firearms, sexual crimes, animal cruelty, and corruption of minors are exceptions and will need court approval to be sealed.

For those with felony records or multiple serious misdemeanors, automatic sealing may not apply, and a petition will need to be filed. Our expungement lawyers in Delaware County can help determine if sealing your record is an option and assist with every step of the process.