Last week, we began a series on the differences between adult trials and juvenile cases. In particular, we explained the difference between a “conviction” and an “adjudication.” Continuing this series, today we’ll be looking at juvenile expungements—especially juvenile expungements in New Jersey. The process for expungement works differently in every state. This holds true also for juvenile cases. So, if you or someone you know has something on their record as a juvenile, keep reading to find out how to get it expunged.

Juvenile Expungements in New Jersey

First, we need to know what state law says in order to understand how juvenile expungements work in the state of New Jersey. You can begin the process after three years from the sentencing. You’re eligible for expungement if:

• You haven’t been adjudicated as a juvenile delinquent.
• Do not have pending criminal charges.
• Haven’t been convicted of an adult crime.
• Haven’t had an adult criminal record expunged.
• You have not committed a disqualifying criminal offense, such as aggravated sexual assault, false swearing, or manslaughter.

Additionally, you can only get burglary, drug possession, criminal mischief, vandalism, simple assault, shop lifting, identity theft, or trespassing expunged. If someone committed other crimes as a juvenile, they cannot get those expunged.

The Process

Second, let’s take a look at the process for juvenile expungements in New Jersey. It involves the following steps:

• First, get a copy of your juvenile record
• Fill out all appropriate forms from the court.
• Then, file those forms with the county in which you were sentenced.
• Send copies of those forms to all law enforcement agencies in the state.
• Next, schedule and attend a hearing with a judge.
• Lastly, if they grant expungement, notify all law enforcement agencies of the expungement order.

You can expect the process to take eight to ten months, even if you do everything correctly and promptly. It takes time for courts to organize everything and for law enforcement agencies to obtain the records.

Mark Catanzaro for Juvenile Expungements in New Jersey

Finally, as you can imagine, this process involves a lot of work, patience, energy, and determination. Having a competent lawyer by your side can be invaluable. So, contact attorney Mark Catanzaro! He has everything you need to help you get your record expunged.