Barker Richardson, PLLC · Raleigh, NC
North Carolina allows expungement of many criminal offenses. Attorney Daniel T. Barker helps eligible individuals remove qualifying charges, dismissals, and convictions from their record under NC G.S. Chapter 15A, Article 5.
A criminal record can follow you into employment, housing, education, and professional licensing. Expungement removes that barrier.
of employers conduct criminal background checks
of landlords screen applicants for criminal history
typical NC expungement timeline after filing
NC expungement law has expanded significantly in recent years. Many offenses that were not previously eligible can now be cleared.
Charges that were dismissed or resulted in a not-guilty verdict may be expunged immediately with no waiting period in most cases.
Eligible nonviolent felony convictions for first-time offenders may be expunged after applicable waiting periods under G.S. § 15A-145.5.
Many misdemeanor convictions are eligible for expungement, including Class A1, Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3 misdemeanors for first-time offenders.
Offenses committed before age 18 (or in some cases age 22) may be eligible for expungement under special provisions for juvenile records.
Certain drug possession convictions for first-time offenders are eligible for expungement under G.S. § 15A-145.2 after a waiting period.
2020 amendments expanded eligibility for individuals with multiple prior convictions in some circumstances. Call to discuss your specific situation.
A court-supervised process — we handle every step.
We review your complete criminal record to identify all eligible charges. Many clients are surprised to find they qualify for expungement of more than one offense.
We provide a clear, upfront flat-fee quote before any work begins. No surprises. You sign an engagement agreement and we get to work.
We prepare the expungement petition, gather required documentation including the SBI background check, and file with the appropriate NC Superior Court.
The court reviews the petition — typically 3–6 months. We track the status and follow up as needed. No action is required from you during this phase.
When approved, the judge signs the Order of Expungement. Records are ordered destroyed or sealed at law enforcement agencies, the courts, and the SBI.
We confirm the expungement has been processed and that your record reflects the clearance. You receive documentation to keep for your records.
Answers to what clients ask most.
Yes, NC allows expungement for many offenses under Article 5 of Chapter 15A of the NC General Statutes. Eligibility depends on the type of offense, your age at the time of the offense, and your prior criminal history. A free consultation with our office will tell you exactly where you stand.
Typically 3–6 months after the petition is filed with the court. The exact timeline depends on the county, the type of offense, and current court scheduling. We file promptly and follow up to keep the process moving as efficiently as possible.
Most public records are cleared, but some law enforcement and justice system records may be retained as permitted by NC law. After expungement, you can generally legally answer "no" when asked if you have been convicted of the expunged offense on most job applications, housing applications, and professional license applications.
First-time nonviolent felonies, misdemeanors, dismissed charges, charges resulting in not-guilty verdicts, and certain offenses committed by minors may all be eligible. Violent felonies and sex offenses are generally not eligible. Call us for a free review of your specific record.
Attorney fees vary based on the complexity of your case and the number of charges to be expunged. We quote a flat fee after reviewing your record. Call (844) 473-7387 for a free consultation.
Yes — many nonviolent felony convictions are now eligible under G.S. § 15A-145.5, particularly for first-time offenders. The 2020 Second Chance Act expanded eligibility significantly. An attorney review of your record is the best way to determine eligibility.
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