Legal Question in Criminal Law in Washington

Law Guru,

Four years ago I was detained for shoplifting twice in two different cities. I was suffering from depression and was taking a drug called Mirapex to help me sleep. I turns out the drug was found to seriously lower judgement and inhibitions causing to become more susceptible to shoplifting, gambling and other destructive behaviors. I sought counseling with a therapist and a psychologist to help me get control of my life. I was assigned something like 75 hours of community service, which I performed at an animal rescue organization by the name of Pasado's Safe Haven near Sultan, WA. I turned in all the documentation for my hours at the courthouse in Bellevue, WA.

So now I would like to get my record expunged, if possible. Do I need an attorney or can I do this myself? Or would that be a bad idea? If I could do it myself are their certain procedures I need to follow or forms to fill out? If I need an attorney what is the best way to find an appropriate one that I can afford?

I thank you for your time and hope to hear from you.

Stefanie Ray y Velarde


Asked on 2/06/12, 2:32 am

1 Answer from Attorneys
Stan Glisson Glisson & Morris

I would start by going to the clerk's office at the court where you were convicted. They can probably give you the court forms to do this yourself. If they can't, then a lawyer practicing in that community can help you. The forms are available for download at the state courts' website as well.

As a general rule, a person can only expunge one conviction. So you may not be able to expunge them both, if indeed both cases resulted in convictions.

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Answered on 2/06/12, 10:26 am


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