Many teenagers end up making mistakes that haunt them for the rest of their lives. Fortunately, young people may not have to deal with the consequences of such crimes by seeking an expungement. By filling out the proper forms and seeking the assistance of an attorney, you can get your life back on track.
Whether you have a DUI or a drug charge in your past, it may be possible for you to have the charge removed from your record. Lawyers refer to this process as expungement, and there are a number of ways a person will benefit throughout life.
1. Denial of applications
If you are a teenager applying for college, then the institution may deny your application or at least deny you certain scholarships. However, it is not just college where a person will face inconveniences. Your insurance premiums can go through the roof with a criminal record, especially if you need to acquire auto insurance, and you have a DUI on your record. You may also face challenges with acquiring loans or housing.
2. Employment
Most employers require applicants to state whether they have a criminal record before even getting an interview. Many individuals with felony convictions have limited employment opportunities because business owners may not trust people with a criminal past with certain tasks. By expunging your criminal record, it becomes unlawful for an entrepreneur to deny you employment.
3. Reputation
Ultimately, expunging a criminal record is beneficial for attaining the peace of mind that as few people as possible have to know about one mistake you made in your past. Many people make mistakes, especially when they are teenagers, and driving under the influence of alcohol one time is enough to affect a person negatively for decades. For many people, getting that peace of mind is well worth the cost and process of going through expungement.
