BLOOMFIELD, NJ — An upcoming expungement clinic in Bloomfield will help people with low-level criminal offenses in New Jersey learn how to clear their records and get a fresh start.
The clinic will take place on Friday, July 17 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Union Baptist Church, 31 Conger Street. Visitors will be able to get help navigating the expungement process. Assistance will be available in English and Spanish.
The clinic is being supported by New Jersey Assembly members Carmen Morales and Assemblyman Michael Venezia, and Bloomfield Mayor Jenny Mundell.
What is an expungement? Here’s an explanation from local lawmakers:
“An expungement is the removal, sealing, impounding, or isolation of all records on file within any court, detention or correctional facility, or law enforcement or criminal justice agency. Expungement allows individuals to keep their past behind them and acquire a fresh start without a record that could make it more difficult to access employment, housing, and financial aid.”
According to state authorities, court-ordered expungements can remove the following information from a person’s record:
“In most cases, you must wait five years after your sentence is served,” the New Jersey Courts advises. “All fines and fees must be paid. Sometimes, you can file for expungement after four years. You can expunge no more than one indictable conviction and up to three disorderly persons offenses or petty disorderly persons offenses.”
Legal Services of New Jersey notes that some criminal convictions can’t be expunged in New Jersey. The list includes murder, sexual offenses, robbery, arson, terrorism and other serious crimes.
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