Seeing your child charged with a juvenile offense can be a scary and overwhelming ordeal. Some of the sentences these children face include court-ordered counseling or community service. They could face confinement in an adult jail or be placed in juvenile detention. Many parents worry about their children’s future with juvenile criminal records.
Such children may have a problem in continuing their education or seeking employment. As a result, their new adult lives might be brought to a halt. Having clarity on the duration it takes to be acquitted of a juvenile offense is quite comforting.
What Constitutes a Juvenile Record?
A juvenile record constitutes computer database entries, court documents, and police reports. This record is created if you commit a crime under the age of 18. Every time you’re arrested as a teenager, it’s recorded. Many people assume that juvenile records are hidden, but this is not true. Although all law enforcement files are sealed, government agencies and some employers can still access them. You’re only safe when the record is deleted.
Is Expungement Automatic?
Expunging is not easy, and it differs from case to case. The case depends on the unique set of each case and the age of an individual. Beckstrom & Beckstrom, LLP’s legal team assesses cases and provides tailored advice to parents. They also help children understand the sealing procedure before the expungement process begins.
The legal system has a way of separating juvenile records from adults. Any crime you commit before your 18th birthday is registered under your juvenile file. Many people assume this record is erased when they turn 18, which is not always true. Every state has its own rules. However, most people are expunged from 21 to 26 years.
Are Records Ever Not Expunged?
There are situations where your juvenile record will never be expunged. One scenario involves a sexual offense conviction, and the other pertains to committing a crime after turning 18. In these two cases, the juvenile criminal record is transferred to your adult record. It is up to the court to decide when to delete your juvenile crime record.
One of the easiest ways of securing your expungement on time is having reliable legal representation. At Beckstrom & Beckstrom, LLP, our commitment is to offer you the necessary assistance and legal counsel. Give us a call today to discuss your case with our attorney.
