So You Screwed Up: A (Hopefully Funny) Guide to Expunging Misdemeanors in Georgia
Let's face it, nobody's perfect. Maybe you, in a moment of questionable judgment, borrowed your neighbor's prized tulips for a "borrowing permanently" type situation. Or perhaps you, channeled your inner Jackson Pollock a little too literally at a frat party. Whatever the (hopefully not too serious) transgression, you now have a misdemeanor on your record, looming like a dark cloud over your chances of getting that dream job or snagging that fancy new apartment. But fear not, fellow Georgian goofball! There's a light at the end of the tunnel, and it's called expungement.
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| How To Get A Misdemeanor Expunged In Georgia |
Expungement? More Like Ex-pungement! Amirite?
Expungement is like magic, but for your criminal record. Poof! That misdemeanor disappears, like a magician making your dignity vanish during that aforementioned frat party incident. Now, before you get too excited and dust off your old tulip-borrowing boots, there are some things to know.
Here's the TL;DR:
- You can only expunge two misdemeanors (so pick wisely!).
- There's a waiting period of four years after your last conviction.
- Not all misdemeanors qualify (DUIs and domestic violence are a no-go).
Okay, I Think I Qualify. Now What?
Glad you asked, eager beaver! The process is a little bureaucratic, but hey, at least it's not rocket science (though if you have a misdemeanor for, say, launching a rogue toaster into orbit, that might be a different story).
Tip: Look out for transitions like ‘however’ or ‘but’.
- Obtain Your Criminal History: Basically, you need a rap sheet (but the legal kind, not the braggy kind). You can get this from the Georgia Crime Information Center (GCIC).
- Track Down the Right People: Depending on when your arrest whodunnit happened, you'll need to contact either the arresting agency or the prosecuting attorney's office.
- Fill Out the Paperwork: This might involve forms, fees, and enough legalese to make your head spin. Consider enlisting the help of a lawyer if you're feeling overwhelmed (and they might even appreciate the toaster story).
- The Waiting Game: After you submit everything, it can take up to 90 days for a decision. Patience, my friend, patience.
- Freedom at Last (Hopefully!): If the judge grants your request, your record gets sealed and becomes invisible to most background checks. Cue confetti and celebratory high-fives (though maybe avoid using those high-fives to borrow anything else).
Remember: This is just a general guide. Every case is different, so consulting with a lawyer is always a good idea.
FAQ: Expungement Edition!
How to Get My Criminal History?
The Georgia Crime Information Center (GCIC) can help you out.
QuickTip: Treat each section as a mini-guide.
How Do I Know Who to Contact?
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It depends on when you were arrested. Pre-July 2013? Hit up the arresting agency. After July 2013? The prosecuting attorney's office is your friend.
How Much Does This Cost?
QuickTip: Keep a notepad handy.
There can be fees involved, so be prepared.
How Long Does it Take?
Plan on waiting up to 90 days for a decision.
QuickTip: Pause after each section to reflect.
How Do I Know if I Qualify?
A lawyer can give you the most accurate answer, but this guide should be a good starting point.
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