If you have a criminal record in the state of North Carolina, you could qualify for clearing the history of an arrest, otherwise known as expungement. In a nutshell, this process involves the removal of past crimes from an individual’s personal record.

The qualifications and eligible arrests for expungement can vary, but all cases have one thing in common: Successful expungements can prevent people’s pasts from interfering with their futures. Read on to learn more about this history clearing legal process and what it entails.

1. You can expunge different crimes

Depending on the individual circumstances of your case, these are the types of crimes that you may be able to expunge:

• Drug convictions
• DWI charges
• Theft and larceny charges
• Assault offenses
• Dismissed charges

To learn more about your eligibility, it can be helpful to speak with a legal professional.

2. Expungement can be good for your future

Because of the wide availability of comprehensive background checks, numerous agencies routinely conduct them, including employers, banks and the government. As a result, these organizations often uncover less-than-ideal histories on the individuals they are searching for. With an expungement, you can protect yourself against invasive background checks that have the potential to damage your future.

3. The legal process can be complex

When it comes to processing your request for expungement, it can be a long wait. Before you even submit your application, however, you may run into several questions regarding your eligibility, filing and affidavit requirements. Fortunately, there are resources available that can help. Being prepared for these kinds of complications can help reduce stress as you move forward with your case.

Although it is not always an easy process, expungement can be a way to put the past behind you and secure your future.