Can a retail theft misdemeanor record be cleared?

Question

A little over 5 years ago I made a very stupid mistake. I took merchandise and didn't pay for, worth $260.00.

I was charged with the offense of retail theft and paid all of the necessary fees.

My question is: what can I do to have this record sealed or expunged, since I am planning on going back to school and they are doing a criminal record check.

I am 37 years old and live in Pennsylvania.

Is there anything that can be done about this?

This is my only record ever.

Answer 1

Hello Juliana. There are two ways to handle a misdemeanor expungement. The cheaper ( but not easier) way is to go to the Clerk of Courts in the county of arrest/conviction and ask for the necessary paperwork to file for expungement. Moderately simple forms to fill out. You will need to get printed at the police department so they can run your background again and verify no further criminal charges. You then file the papers with the Clerk of Courts. You do not need to appear in court and will be notified by mail.

Second way ( more expensive, but advisable) is to retain an attorney within the jurisdiction of the arrest/conviction. He can draw up your petition, file it with the fingerprint card and submit everything to the court in your behalf.

Prices vary depending on how the lawyer values his time, but a rough guesstimate would be in the $400 to $800 range. The attorney will tell you on your first consultation what it is going to cost you.

In either case, best of luck to you and I hope this is useful to you

Answer 2

At 37 you may need to see a lawyer. however I was told at one time in some instances it is not necessary because there are no other blemishes on your record.