Proven Shreveport Expungement Attorney
The baggage of a criminal conviction can follow you even after you’ve paid your debt to society. Having a criminal charge or conviction expunged can be complicated, which is why it’s recommended that you work with a Shreveport expungement lawyer.
A criminal background check can affect a person’s ability to get a job and secure housing. Louisiana’s expungement laws give individuals the chance to seal their criminal records and go on to live a more normal life.
Kinley Law Firm brings years of criminal defense experience to the table. We have extensive knowledge of state expungement laws, and we’re familiar with navigating the process for charges and convictions at every level. When you choose our team, you can rest assured you’re working with a dedicated law firm that cares.
Louisiana Expungement Laws
Under Louisiana law, expungement is the removal of a record from public access. It’s important to note that your criminal record itself does not disappear. A Shreveport Criminal Defense Lawyer can help determine your eligibility, as you can usually have the record of an arrest for any crime that does not result in a conviction expunged from your record in Louisiana. This includes situations where an offender is prosecuted but ultimately not found guilty.
Expunging the record of conviction, on the other hand, can be much more challenging. Many types of crimes are not eligible for expungement under Louisiana law. A Shreveport expungement attorney can evaluate your case and help you understand your options for your future.
There were a total of 110,473 offenses reported by metropolitan parishes in Louisiana, including 56,734 property crimes, 30,942 crimes against persons, and 22,797 crimes against society. Recent data shows that approximately 550,000 people in Louisiana currently qualify for expungement. Unfortunately, Louisiana is known for having cumbersome expungement laws that can be challenging to navigate on your own.
The more complicated the case, the longer it can take. The Louisiana State Police (LSP) is currently processing a large backlog of expungement orders, which can lead to delays. The more organized you are on your end, the faster you can expect things to be processed. A Shreveport expungement attorney can work with you to help keep things on track.
Your Local Shreveport Expungement Lawyers
If you’re facing an expungement case in Louisiana, it’s wise to secure legal counsel from a local criminal law firm. Residents in Shreveport and surrounding communities can trust Kinley Law Firm to help them through the process. We’re proud to be a local advocate for Louisianans, and we’re prepared to support you through complex criminal cases and expungement cases.
Our dedicated law firm was founded on real courtroom experience and a thorough understanding of Louisiana’s justice system. We’re prepared for any legal battle, whether you’re navigating the process for a misdemeanor or felony through the Caddo Parish Clerk of Court or ordinance violations through the Shreveport City Court.
FAQs About Shreveport, LA Expungement Laws
What Types of Criminal Convictions Cannot be Expunged From Your Record in Shreveport?
The types of criminal convictions that cannot be expunged from your record in Shreveport typically include crimes of violence, distribution of a controlled substance, domestic assault and battery, misdemeanor stalking, and sex crimes.
You typically can have minor misdemeanor convictions expunged from your record. Charges that were dismissed may also qualify for expungement. It’s wise to hire an expungement attorney to help you understand your legal options.
How Long Do I Have to Wait to Have a Conviction Expunged From My Record in Shreveport?
How long you have to wait to have a conviction expunged from your record in Shreveport depends on the nature of the charge. Misdemeanors typically have a shorter waiting period than felony convictions.
If you were not officially convicted, you may be able to file for expungement right away. It’s critical that you don’t have any other pending charges or convictions during any waiting period to qualify for expungement.
How Long Does the Expungement Process Take in Shreveport?
How long the expungement process takes in Shreveport depends on the complexity of the case and the court’s backlog. You typically must wait a set period of time after your case is closed. The expungement process itself can also take time.
You must allow time for agencies to respond to the request and schedule a hearing if necessary. After the court grants the motion, you must wait for the Louisiana State Police (LSP) to mail you a Certificate of Compliance.
How Much Do Expungements Cost in Shreveport?
The cost of expungements in Shreveport can vary from case to case. The fees associated with expungements in Shreveport include a money order of $250 to be paid to the Louisiana State Police (LSP). Unless you’ve been convicted of a felony, you may be eligible for a fee waiver.
The total cost of expungement typically does not exceed $550. That said, courts can charge additional fees. An expungement lawyer can help you take care of all applicable costs.
Hire an Expungement Lawyer in Shreveport to Help With Your Case
Criminal charges can follow you well after you’ve completed your sentence and are allowed to re-enter society. If you want to have your criminal record expunged, you must be familiar with Louisiana’s expungement laws and how they pertain to your specific charges.
Fortunately, you can count on a Shreveport expungement attorney to help you navigate your case. Kinley Law Firm is a trusted local advocate for Louisianans throughout Shreveport and the surrounding parishes.
Founding attorney Bryce Kinley brings in-depth experience from both sides of the courtroom, serving as an Assistant District Attorney before becoming a criminal defense lawyer. He has first-chaired numerous jury trials and handled hundreds of criminal cases involving serious charges.
Our firm understands how much is at stake when you’re facing a criminal charge alone, let alone a conviction. We’re dedicated to helping you through the expungement process, so you can get back to your life.
If you’re ready to learn more about how we can help with your case, reach out to set up an appointment with a member of our team. You can visit us at our office in Shreveport to get started on your case. Find us on Jordan Street near I-49.
