Tennessee Expungement Laws
Murfreesboro criminal defense attorneys help clients get a fresh start through expungement
Past indiscretions can severely hinder your future plans, particularly if they are part of your permanent record. The state of Tennessee allows expungement of some criminal records that meet specific criteria. Taylor Law Group is experienced in Tennessee expungement laws, and work tirelessly on your behalf so you can gain a fresh start.
What is expungement?
Expungement is a process whereby the legal record of certain criminal cases can be removed from public record, and are considered entirely erased as far as the law is concerned. In order to receive expungement, the individual must submit an application to the court.
No fee expungement in Tennessee
In Tennessee, you may be eligible for expungement at no additional cost if you meet one of the following criteria:
- Charges against you were dismissed
- After arrest, you were released without being charged
- A grand jury returned a “no true bill” in your case
- You were tried and found not guilty in court
- It was determined that prosecution would not be pursued in your case
- Following a court hearing, an order of protection was defended and denied
Expungement of criminal conviction in Tennessee
A new law became effective July 1, 2012 that allows most misdemeanors and some Class E felonies to be eligible for expunction for Tennessee residents including:
- Non-violent crimes
- Non-sexual crimes
- Non-DUI crimes
- Vandalism
- Forgery
- Theft
- Fraudulent insurance claims
Individuals who were convicted of two or more crimes that arose from separate criminal events may not have the charges expunged. To apply for expungement, you cannot have any other convictions other than the one being considered, a minimum of five years must have passed since the completion of the sentence for the criminal conviction, and you must have completed all the terms of your sentencing and paid all fines.
Offenses that cannot be expunged
In Tennessee, certain offenses cannot be expunged, including the following:
- Assault
- Domestic assault
- Aggravated assault
- Aggravated burglary
- Stalking
- Unlawful sexual contact
- Child abuse
- Child neglect and endangerment
- Rape
- Murder
- Robbery
- Driving under the influence (DUI)
Because the new law requires both the offense and the defendant meet specific eligibility requirements, it is best to consult with one of our experienced Murfreesboro criminal attorneys to discuss your case.
Keep a copy of the expungement order
If your charges have been expunged, keep a certified copy of the expungement order in a safe place. This is evidence that your expungement is legally valid.
Get the new start you deserve in life by contacting our Murfreesboro criminal attorneys
If you have an offense or conviction casting a dark shadow over your future, take action. Consult with an experienced Murfreesboro criminal attorney to explore whether you can gain relief under Tennessee law. At Taylor Law Group, we share a combined 40 years of criminal law experience and a track record of success. Contact our office today at 615-890-1982 or contact us online and take the first step toward a brighter future.