Petition for Expungement Pursuant to Pa.r.crim.p. 490 is a legal document that was released by the Pennsylvania Court of Common Pleas - a government authority operating within Pennsylvania.
Q: What is a petition for expungement?
A: A petition for expungement is a legal request to clear or erase a criminal record.
Q: What is Pa.r.crim.p. 490 in Pennsylvania?
A: Pa.r.crim.p. 490 refers to the Pennsylvania Rule of Criminal Procedure governing the expungement process.
Q: Who can file a petition for expungement in Pennsylvania?
A: Individuals who were previously charged with a crime in Pennsylvania but had the charges dismissed, were acquitted, or completed a diversionary program may be eligible to file a petition for expungement.
Q: What does the expungement process involve?
A: The expungement process involves completing a petition, submitting it to the court, attending a hearing if required, and obtaining a court order to clear the criminal record.
Q: How long does it take to get a criminal record expunged in Pennsylvania?
A: The time it takes to get a criminal record expunged in Pennsylvania can vary depending on the complexity of the case and the court's schedule, but it typically takes several months.
Q: Will expunging a criminal record erase it completely?
A: Yes, once a criminal record is expunged, it is typically removed from public access and is not visible to employers, landlords, or the general public.
Q: Can expunged records be accessed by law enforcement or government agencies?
A: In some cases, certain law enforcement or government agencies may still have access to expunged records for specific purposes, such as background checks for certain types of employment or licensing.
Q: Can expunged charges be used against me in the future?
A: Generally, once a criminal record is expunged, you can legally deny the existence of the charges in most situations, unless you are applying for certain positions or licenses that require disclosure of expunged records.
Q: Do I need an attorney to file a petition for expungement in Pennsylvania?
A: While not required, it is generally recommended to consult with an attorney who specializes in criminal law to ensure the best possible outcome and navigate the legal process effectively.
Q: Are there any fees associated with filing a petition for expungement in Pennsylvania?
A: Yes, there are usually filing fees associated with the expungement process in Pennsylvania, which can vary depending on the county and specific circumstances.
Form Details:
Download a fillable version of the form by clicking the link below or browse more documents and templates provided by the Pennsylvania Court of Common Pleas.