How Much Does It Cost to Get a Record Expunged in Louisiana?

If you have been charged with or convicted of a crime in Louisiana, you probably know how difficult it can be to rebuild your life afterwards. Many people seek to have this history expunged to improve their lives, and wonder, “How much does it cost to get a record expunged in Louisiana?”

Experienced Expungement Attorney in Louisiana

The Law Office of Ryan N. Cox is almost exclusively a criminal defense firm. This means that we help people restore their rights after criminal charges or a conviction. We take pride in assisting those who have gone through unfortunate circumstances in reclaiming their lives.

What Is Expungement?

Getting your records expunged means that certain entries in your criminal record are eliminated in most cases. If a private entity conducts a criminal background check, expunged crimes may not appear in it.

Expungement can be valuable for many individuals struggling with a criminal history, but it is only accessible to certain people. You have to have served your sentence fully and not received additional convictions within a certain time period. Certain crimes, including those involving violence, minors, or sex crimes, may not be available for expungement, regardless of how much time has passed. For instance, the process and eligibility for expunging a first-time DWI offense have specific requirements under state law.

How Much Does It Cost to Get a Record Expunged in Louisiana?

Normally, the cost of filing the expungement paperwork is $550. However, the court may charge additional fees. Exact costs can vary depending on which court you are filing in.

Some people can waive the filing fee. Who qualifies is highly dependent on the court’s decision. Those who qualify for benefits like food stamps are likely eligible to file for free, also known as in forma pauperis (IFP). Expungement matters are generally handled by the district court in the parish where the conviction occurred.

The Benefits of Expungement

Even though it can take a significant amount of work to get your record expunged, many people think the benefits are worth the effort. These benefits include:

• No requirement to disclose. On questionnaires that ask about your criminal history, many people can answer that they have not been convicted of a crime after expungement. This can make their applications look better to employers and decision makers.
• Job prospects. Certain industries are strict about requiring employees to have a clean criminal record. This also applies to some professional licenses. Expungement can help you gain more opportunities within your preferred industry.
• Reputation. Many people look down upon those with a criminal history. While this is unwarranted in many cases, getting your record expunged can improve your reputation among individuals who think this way.
• Housing. Most landlords run background checks on potential tenants. A criminal history can affect your chances of securing housing. If your record is expunged, private people cannot see your charges or conviction in a background check.
• Education. Some crimes prevent you from applying for financial aid. Educational institutions might also scrutinize applications from people with a criminal history. Expungement can give you more options for education and funding to help you attend school.

Fewer than 10% of eligible people actually go through the expungement process. An attorney can help make this situation less confusing.

Why Hire an Expungement Lawyer?

It is important to get your expungement paperwork correct the first time. This is because the costs associated with your filing are non-refundable. Even if you pay to have your records expunged, the judge can deny your request if you do not qualify or if you did not follow the correct procedures.

An attorney can explain whether you qualify for expungement and how to start the process. You can also ask whether you are eligible to file via IFP. Their assistance can help you file paperwork without worrying about being denied for procedural errors.

Why Choose Us?

When you hire an expungement lawyer from The Law Office of Ryan N. Cox, we take the time to get to know you and your circumstances so we can represent you most effectively. Our care and attention have led to many of our clients’ charges being reduced, dropped, or expunged. We are proud to help people who seek a better life by improving their criminal record.

FAQs

How Can I Get My Record Expunged for Free in Louisiana?

To get your record expunged for free in Louisiana, you need to submit a fee waiver form to your regional district attorney. The DA decides whether you can receive a fee waiver. If the form is approved, it is attached to the other expungement paperwork and filed with the clerk of court.

What Is the Difference Between Sealing and Expunging a Record?

The difference between sealing and expunging a record is that they have different levels of visibility. Expungement means that the records are deleted from the legal system. While some people can still see expunged records, this is usually limited to government agencies and law enforcement. Private companies usually cannot see expunged records in a background check.

How Much Does It Cost to Get Something Expunged From Your Record in Louisiana?

To get something expunged from your record in Louisiana, there is an expungement fee of $550. There may also be additional processing fees that can vary depending on your situation and your location. Some people qualify for fee waivers, but not everyone does. Certain crimes, especially some felonies, cannot be expunged.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Record Expunged in Louisiana?

How long it takes to get a record expunged in Louisiana is at least 60 days. This is because the police have up to 60 days to object to a motion for expungement. If they do object, you might get a court hearing. This can delay the expungement process. It might also take longer to receive your actual expungement certificate.

Improve Your Prospects

Over 70 million Americans, almost 1 in 3, have a criminal record. This can affect their ability to find gainful employment and provide for their families. Some may have options to minimize the effects of a criminal record. Schedule a consultation with The Law Office of Ryan N. Cox to learn more about your expungement options.