Legal Question in Criminal Law in New Jersey

How to expunge a disorderly person's offense?
In 2004, I pleaded guilty to a disorderly person offense in New Jersey. NJ 2C:14-4a. That time I didn�t hire a lawyer. I went to court with my pastor and plead guilty. I paid a fine of $250 + court fees. There is NO conviction or probation.

Over the years I've been through several background checks and it never showed up on any.
Can I put �no� on a job application? The original event was a stupid error of judgment on my part and it completely ruined my life. Other than this, never been in any kind of trouble in my life- not even a speeding ticket. Is there a way to get this expunged before 5 years? What is the procedure for Expungement? Please help

Asked on 6/18/08, 11:56 pm

2 Answers from Attorneys

Thomas Blauvelt Thomas Carroll Blauvelt, LLC

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Re: How to expunge a disorderly person's offense?

Your arrest and guilty plea to a NJ disorderly persons lewdness charge requires a minimum of 5 years wait to expunge the same. If you were sentenced to any probationary term, that time is added to the 5 year wait.

I suggest you retain an experienced NJ criminal attorney to expunge this matter. Theoretically you could try to re-open your old case in order to expunge sooner, but that is an unlikely event. You should have retained an attorney in 2004.

Feel free to contact our offices in reference to your expungement when you are eligible for same.

Answered on 6/19/08, 6:26 am

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