What does an expungement achieve in Oklahoma?
In Oklahoma, an expungement means the Court issues an order to the arresting agency, prosecuting agency, and the Oklahoma Bureau of Investigation (OSBI) mandating that these three entities seal all records of both the arrest and any court proceedings, so they can’t ever be found on any government maintained database by anyone. It’s like the arrest never happened. In order to receive an expungement a Petition must be filed with a court that has jurisdiction requesting that all records pertaining to a specific offense(s) be sealed. If a court finds a petitioner is entitled to an expungement they will issue an Order granting the expungement.
Reasons to get an expungement
We are all human. If you find yourself reading this, it is likely that you or someone you know has had a misfortunate run in with the law and currently have a criminal record.
You might think that it was a minor crime, you served your sentence, and that you can finally move on with your life.
Unfortunately, the reality is a criminal conviction will more likely than not follow you everywhere, even if it is just a misdemeanor! Even with an easy to use, affordable, and convenient mobile app such as ExpungeOK, you might still think it is not worth the time, money, and effort to get your record expunged.
If somehow that is true, here are 10 Reasons why you should reconsider:
- Employment: If you’re seeking employment or already working, you may find it difficult to cope with work or find a job. If you are currently working, you may be terminated and future prospective employers may refuse to employ you once they become aware of your criminal record.
- Insurance Purposes: Many insurance companies may charge you extremely high insurance premiums and depending upon your criminal record, they may outright reject you and not offer you any kind of insurance.
- Getting a Loan: Many banks and other financial institutions may hesitate before loaning you any money and they will likely charge you a higher interest rate if you have a criminal record.
- Housing: Many private landlords as well as other housing and real estate agencies may refuse to provide you with their services or provide you housing if you have a criminal record.
- Academic Purposes: If you’re a student with a criminal record, you may be in an even more risky situation. Your university may expel you, refuse to offer any kind of aid or grant. They may also make you ineligible to receive any awards or honors. When applying, universities may outright reject you based solely upon your criminal record not matter how distinguished your academic credentials are.
- Firearm ownership: A criminal record may restrict your rights to possess or purchase any kind of firearms. Gun ownership may be restricted or even banned if you have a criminal record
- Volunteering: Volunteer organizations may not allow you to work with them if you have a criminal record.
- Adoption: If you wish to adopt a child, your rights may be challenged and may even be denied if you have a criminal record
- State Licenses and Certificates: State licenses and certificates may also be denied to you if you have a criminal record
- Federal Assistance Eligibility: Having a criminal record may also keep you from being eligible for federally funded assistance or food stamps.
How long does an expungement take?
It takes the State of Oklahoma processes expungements, in most cases, in less than 6 months. The process can be expedited depending on circumstances. Contact us today to discuss your case.