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A juvenile crime in NJ can follow a person for the rest of their life. Like any other kind of criminal conviction in New Jersey, a juvenile who has a criminal record can have limit job options and it can also affect one’s ability to get into college. The good news is that it may be possible to clear one’s juvenile record. By filing for an expungement, the juvenile record can be isolated and hidden from view. That means the majority of employers, as well as all landlords and colleges, will not be able to see the record. For most purposes, the record no longer exists.

When Can a Juvenile Record Be Expunged?

A NJ juvenile record can be expunged three years after the youth has completed sentencing and paid any associated fines. The process will usually take an additional eight to 10 months if executed correctly and swiftly.

Eligibility to Expunge Juvenile Criminal Record in NJ

In addition to waiting the requisite amount of time, a person can apply to have a juvenile record expunged if:

• He/she has not been adjudicated a juvenile delinquent.
• He/she has not been convicted of an adult crime.
• He/she does not have pending criminal charges.
• He/she has not had an adult criminal record expunged.
• He/she has not committed a disqualifying criminal offense, such aggravated sexual assault, false swearing, or manslaughter.

Juvenile Crimes That Can Be Expunged

Many common juvenile crimes can be expunged. This includes (but is not limited to):

• Burglary
• Criminal mischief
• Drug possession (including marijuana)
• Identity theft
• Shoplifting
• Simple assault
• Trespassing
• Vandalism

How to Get a Juvenile Record Expunged

The process for filing for an expungement is very involved and requires a lot of paperwork. In a nutshell, one must:

• Obtain a copy of one’s juvenile record
• Fill out all appropriate forms
• File forms with the county in which one was convicted
• Distribute copies of those forms to all law enforcement agencies in the state
• Attend a hearing
• If granted, notify all law enforcement agencies of the expungement order

If that sounds like a lot, it’s because it can be. And one single mistake can result in a denial of the expungement. The best way to handle the situation is to hire an attorney with experience filing expungements. An attorney can take care of all the paperwork, copying, and filing. He/she can even attend the hearing on behalf of the person filing. An experienced attorney will be able to present a rock-solid case with the best chance of getting the expungement granted.

Why Get a Juvenile Record Expunged?

A New Jersey juvenile record will show up in background checks for employers and landlords. A juvenile record can also limit one’s access to financial aid. Some colleges will deny admission to those with juvenile convictions. In addition, it can also impact the premiums one pays for auto insurance, life insurance, and homeowner’s insurance even as much as a decade later.

What Happens After the Juvenile Record is Expunged?

Once a person has his/her juvenile record expunged, he/she can legally deny that the crime and conviction took place. This includes both on applications and in interviews. There are some exceptions, such as when a person is applying for a job in law enforcement, with a judiciary body, or enlisting in the military. Keep in mind that a juvenile record can be seen by the court if a person reoffends later in life, included as an adult.

Who Should I Contact to Get My Juvenile Record Expunged?

If you or your child would like to have their juvenile record expunged, you need the help of an attorney experienced in filing expungements. The lawyers of the Rosenblum Law are skilled defense and expungement attorneys who can help put your or your child’s past behind them. Email Rosenblum Law or call 888-815-3649 today for a free consultation about your case.