Morristown, NJ criminal defense lawyer Blair R. Zwillman explains how expungement works in New Jersey. He explains that expungements essentially wipe out a person’s criminal history for the purposes of any public inquiry. Once a court grants and enters a final order of expungement, and the required agencies comply by removing all references to the arrest or conviction, the individual can truthfully state under oath that they have never been arrested or convicted of a crime.

He emphasizes how important this process is, particularly for employment opportunities, teaching, and many licensed professions. In New Jersey, however, a specific period of time must pass after a conviction before a petition for expungement can be filed. The required timeframe varies depending on the offense, but for indictable offenses—the more serious crimes—it is typically at least five years.

He adds that filing a successful petition requires meeting detailed legal criteria, and an attorney must carefully prepare the petition to ensure eligibility. When it is determined in advance that the client likely qualifies, the expungement process can be a powerful tool to clear their record and move forward.