The Benefits of Expunging a Criminal Record in Minnesota

5 Ways Expunging a Criminal Record Can Benefit You

A criminal record can affect every aspect of your life, from where you can live to where you can work. Luckily, in Minnesota, you may not be stuck with a record forever. Our state offers some petitioners the option to have their criminal records expunged. 

Here’s more information from our experienced legal team about the benefits of expunging a criminal record in Minnesota. 

First, What Is Expungement?  

Expungement is the process of asking the court to seal a court record. When the record is sealed, it never really goes away—it’s just not immediately viewable by the public. That way, the information will be hidden when potential employers, landlords or nosey neighbors search your name in a criminal record database.

Expungement can be done for various offenses, including some DWIs, drug offenses and more. Often, you can petition for expungement after a certain amount of time has passed without any new convictions.

Limitations of Expungement

Not all criminal records can be expunged. Certain crimes, including anything that requires you to be on an offender registry (like the sex offender registry), aren’t available for expungement. The same goes for high crimes and most felonies. 

Because criminal records still technically exist after expungement, they can still be accessed by court order. If you’re accused of a crime in the future, prosecutors and judges can see the expunged records when considering your case. Certain government agencies, like the FBI, DHS and TSA, may still be able to see the records, too. 

Still, expungement is a valuable way to keep your life moving forward without having your record hold you back. Here are several benefits to getting an expungement in Minnesota.

1. Better Employment Opportunities

A study conducted in 2009 by the Justice Department found that a past criminal conviction reduced the likelihood of a job offer by 50%. Even a minor criminal record, like a misdemeanor or an arrest without a conviction, can create lifelong barriers.

Expunging your criminal record can prevent some of this damage. An expunged record isn’t immediately viewable by potential employers. During the hiring process, you can even legally answer “no” when asked whether you have a criminal record. 

Some Employers Can Still See Your Record

You should know, however, that public employers can still ask to gain access to your full criminal record. Employers in schools, law enforcement or human services agencies will likely see the expunged record.

Remember that you’re not alone. In America today, approximately 77 million people have a criminal record. That’s about 1 in every 3 adults

If your employer will probably see your expunged record, it may be best to disclose it to them before they discover it. Some employers hire people despite criminal records, especially when that history is a learning experience that sets you apart. However, this is not guaranteed, so be cautious about sharing your history.

2. Improved Housing Options

A criminal record can make a housing search challenging. Landlords often perform background checks on applicants, and a criminal history can mean that the landlord chooses another tenant instead. This is especially true in competitive rental markets like the Twin Cities, where landlords have many applicants.

Expunging your criminal record increases your chance of securing safe, stable and affordable housing. Potential landlords will not be able to see your criminal record, so you can leave your past in the past and, literally, move on.

3. Access to More Educational Opportunities

There are several ways a criminal record can limit your access to educational opportunities.

First, a college can deny admission or rescind an admission offer because of your criminal record. For example, the University of Minnesota asks about past sexual offenses on application forms. Certain programs, like those involving field placements or sensitive work, might also require you to disclose your entire criminal history.

Second, you may have trouble getting financial aid because of your criminal record. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) doesn’t run a background check, but you’re required to answer questions about your criminal history. If the conviction has been expunged, you don’t need to report it.

4. Smoother Professional Licensing Processes

Even if you otherwise meet the qualifications for the job, a criminal record can disqualify you from obtaining the license you need to do it. This is especially true when that career involves a high level of public trust or sensitive situations. Here are a few of those professions:

  • Healthcare (doctors, nurses)
  • Law
  • Childcare
  • Teaching
  • Financial services
  • Real estate
  • Certain contracting roles (government contractors)

If you’re thinking about going into one of the fields above, it’s important to do your research and learn just how much your criminal record is likely to hold you back. The first step on your career path might be to have your criminal record expunged with a lawyer’s help.

5. Peace of Mind

You never know what’s coming next. When you have a criminal record, the psychological toll can be significant. With every new opportunity comes the fear of being judged or held back. With every change comes the potential for fear and hassle. A move across town becomes harder. A job opportunity means holding your breath, waiting for potential employers to find out. 

Expungement allows you to leave your past behind so you can focus on building a better future. You’ll no longer have to worry about background checks revealing your history. This sense of relief can help improve your self-esteem and give you a greater sense of control over your life.

Take the First Step on Your Path Toward a Fresh Start

If you’re ready to take control of your criminal history and take the first step to expungement, talk with a lawyer about your options. Our team can walk you through the process and answer any questions.

To learn more, contact White & Associates in Elk River. We’re available by phone at 763-241-0477, or you can contact us online.

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