Section 18 Expungement in Oklahoma
A Section 18 expungement is the process of sealing an arrest record with the OSBI, as well as sealing the related records with various agencies. A Section 18 expungement is only available in certain circumstances. However, for those who qualify for a Section 18 expungement, it provides an opportunity for people to remove the negative influence of a criminal arrest, and the related charges, from their life.
What Is Section 18 Expungement?
Section 18 Expungement is one of the most desirable ways to deal with a past criminal arrest and its related charges. Essentially, a Section 18 expungement seals the public record of the charges, as well as the arrest record with the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI). Instances where one might qualify for a Section 18 expungement include:
- A conviction was overturned or reversed by an appellate court;
- DNA evidence was used to establish innocence;
- A misdemeanor deferred sentence has been successfully served, there are no other charges pending against the person, and at least one year has passed since the end of the deferred sentence;
- A nonviolent felony deferred sentence has been successfully served, the person has never been convicted of a felony, no other charges are pending, and at least 5 years have passed since the end of the deferred sentence.
There are a number of other situations in which a Section 18 Expungement may be possible, but these are the most common. Because the circumstances under which someone may qualify for a Section 18 expungement are so fact specific, please contact us so that we may evaluate your individual circumstances to see whether you qualify for a Section 18 expungement.
How Can a Lawyer Help?
Bruce Edge and his team understand Oklahoma law and can quickly determine the best course of action in your case. If expungement is possible, they will pursue it with you and help find ways to get your life back on track.
Contact the Edge Law Firm today for a free consultation.
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