“A Complete Guide to Drafting a Request to Seal Records of Decriminalized Offenses”
Service Description
Introduction
A Request to Seal Records of Decriminalized Offenses is a legal petition submitted to a court, seeking to seal or expunge the criminal records of offenses that have been decriminalized. This request is critical for individuals seeking to eliminate the impact of past convictions on their current lives, especially in cases where the law has changed.
Requirement
The need for this request arises for individuals who have previous convictions or records for offenses that are no longer considered criminal under current law. Sealing these records can aid in employment, housing, and other opportunities where a criminal record might be a hindrance.
How to Draft
To draft a Request to Seal Records of Decriminalized Offenses:
- Personal Information: Start with your full name, current address, date of birth, and any other identifying information.
- Case Details: Include details of the criminal record you are seeking to seal, such as the case number, date of conviction, and the specific offense.
- Changes in Law: Clearly state the changes in law that have led to the decriminalization of the offense in question.
- Impact on Life: Explain how having this record unsealed has affected or could affect your life, emphasizing the need for sealing for employment, education, or other legitimate reasons.
- Legal Justification: Cite any legal statutes or provisions in your jurisdiction that support your request to seal the records.
- Signature and Date: Sign and date the request. It may be advisable to have it notarized.
Filing
File the request with the court that handled your original case. Ensure to follow any specific procedural requirements, including payment of filing fees if applicable.
Conclusion
A Request to Seal Records of Decriminalized Offenses plays a significant role in mitigating the long-term consequences of past legal infractions that are no longer crimes. Properly drafting and filing this request can be a pivotal step in reclaiming one’s reputation and opening doors to future opportunities.
