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Criminal Record Expungement Requires a Professional Defense Attorney to Build the Best Case Possible
Our team of criminal defense attorneys have over 3 decades of experience helping Michigan residents remove stains on their criminal records. When you work with us, we will help build a case that puts you and your circumstances in the best position for an expungement. Criminal record expungement is a tedious process – call us today to learn more about the process and how we can help you.
Expungements:
Michigan’s Clean Slate legislation now allows for more people to expunge their criminal record.
Generally, a person convicted of 1 or more criminal offenses, including felonies and misdemeanors, but not more than a total of 3 felony offenses, may file an application with the convicting court to expunge all of his or her convictions. In other words, an applicant can generally expunge up to 3 felony convictions and an unlimited number of misdemeanors. There are exceptions for certain types of convictions, which is why you should contact our skilled attorneys to help you through the process.
There are waiting periods of either 3, 5, or 7 years depending on the type and number of convictions sought to be expunged.
First-offense Operating While Intoxicated Expungement Eligibility
Traditionally, an operating while intoxicated/operating while visibly impaired/drunk driving conviction would remain on your record forever. However, recently as of February 19, 2022, first time operating while intoxicated convictions are now eligible to be expunged under certain circumstances. You must wait 5 years from the date of discharge from probation to apply to have your record expunged. During that 5-year waiting period, you must not get arrested or convicted of any other crime.
Who is NOT eligible:
- If you have more than one drunk driving conviction, you do not qualify.
- If someone was injured to killed as a result of your first-time drunk driving conviction, you are not eligible.
- If you were convicted of drunk driving while driving a commercial vehicle using a CDL license, you are not eligible.
The advantage of expunging your criminal record
- Lower insurance premiums – the money you save on lower insurance premiums will easily cover the cost of an expungement if you do it right
- Eligibility for student loans and housing loans
- College applications
- Greater housing opportunities
- More employment opportunities and promotions
- Fewer restrictions on attending school related events
Our Michigan Criminal Defense Attorneys
Have Saved Countless Lives
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He saved my future as medical student.
Mr. Cassar was my attorney through the darkest and scariest time of my life. He was the light that got me through. Not only is he a great attorney, EVERYONE knows him and loves him. Judges respect him and other attorneys respect him with good reason; He’s honest and very knowledgeable. I hired him because other people I knew loved him. From the moment I met him I knew I was in good hands. Not only did he walk me through this whole mess, he recommended a health facility that got my whole life back on track. Mr. Cassar is not only the best attorney you could hire, he’s the only one should even consider hiring. He helped save my life and my future.
He saved my future as medical student. God Bless Him.
- Abby
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Ray’s firm helped to save my life.
When a good person does something bad they need a law firm that can help guide a client through the worst of times during the criminal process. Understanding the law is only part of the process, Ray’s firm understands the emotional impact the legal system has on a client and his/her family. Ray’s firm is very well equipped with experience to predict and manage outcomes during the criminal process. When in court I was very pleased that his peers highly respected his work, as that goes a long way when trying to build a solid defense case. Ray’s firm helped to save my life and for that I am forever grateful.
- Glen G.
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Fantastic Lawyer and Amazing Person.
I had never been through any legal process and Ray was incredible from the start. I was terrified to even tell him my situation and he was compassionate, kind and encouraging – always letting me know he was there for me and to help me. He has a phenomenal knowledge of the law. When I had to appear in court, he knew how to properly navigate me through the process and I was always prepared for what information was to come next. I had the best possible outcome and it’s all due to Raymond Cassar.
- Jennifer
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I’ve personally experienced his results.
Raymond Cassar, his staff, and his reputation really speak for themselves. I’ve personally experienced his results. The office’s makeup consists of incredibly bright individuals who go over and beyond any ordinary professional/legal obligation or standard of care. It is wise to have listed – Law Offices of Raymond Cassar, as the “attorney-of-record” when ANY judge in Metro-Detroit looks down at YOUR file in Court!
- Rob Z.
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I am so deeply thankful.
I am so deeply thankful for the steadfast guidance Ray and his staff had provided to our family. It is often thought that the profession of lawyers is less than noble.that is NOT the case with Ray. The person and compassion out first and foremost. The law can be complicated and Ray navigated us through it with dignity. If you are in need of legal guidance — and want to work with honest trustworthy professionals call on Ray and his staff.
- Deb D.
What is the Process for Having a Criminal Record Expunged?
- Criminal record expungement is tedious process. There are critical steps you must take to have a record removed successfully. Our defense attorneys can help you with this process.
- First, it must be determined if you are eligible to have the record expunged. This will involve a detailed look into your criminal background to determine the type of crime, how many crimes, and what the circumstances are surrounding each crime.
- Second, record expungements are a privilege, not a right. You must give the judge reasons why you deserve an expungement. How will you show a judge that you have made positive steps to change and better your life?
- Third, you must complete all the required paperwork and present your case at a hearing in front of the sentencing judge.
- Given the complexity of this process, it is highly recommended that you contact us to help you navigate the steps.