Expungement in Georgia

Criminal charges on your record can restrict your options for a job, housing, and education. Under certain circumstances, getting your record expunged, or cleared, can purge those charges from your record, allowing you to move forward with your life.

How can I get my record expunged in Georgia?

The state of Georgia allows expungement in cases that did not end in convictions. There are some exceptions to this rule. The state of Georgia will deny an expungement—even if you were not convicted—under the following circumstances:

• You have a criminal record in other states or counties.
• You were only found not guilty of some, but not all, of your charges.
• You plead guilty to one or more charges.
• You agreed to a plea deal where the charges against you were dismissed.

If you were convicted of a crime, there are a few instances where you may be eligible for expungement:

• First offenses: Georgia law allows some first offenders to complete probation rather than go to court. If you complete your probation, you may be eligible for expungement.
• First drug possession offense: If you complete probation for a first-time drug offense, you may be eligible for expungement.

What is the process for having my record expunged?

In Georgia, the prosecutor must agree to expungements. After that, appropriate agencies are required to destroy all documents and information related to your case. You have the right to appeal a denial if you can prove you meet the above requirements.

Working with an experienced attorney affords you the best chance of having your record expunged. To find out if you are eligible for expungement, contact attorneys at The Turner Firm for a free review of your case.