I just completed Pennsylvania's ARD program, which is a probation program for first time offenders that allows for record expungement after successful completion. My probation officer told me that I would have to petition for expungement in a court hearing. She told me that I would need to call the court of common pleas to find out more info about this process.
Would I need a lawyer, or do you think I have a good chance at getting it expunged myself? I am educated and very capable of filling out the proper forms, but I was wondering if maybe having a lawyer would give added clout to help me succeed at expungement.
Anyone in PA have experience with ARD or record expungement?
If I hire a lawyer, roughly how much can I expect to pay for a lawyer? Also, how much can I expect to pay for court/filing fees?
How long does it take for the expungement to take effect? I'd like to apply for some jobs that require criminal background checks, but I do not want to apply during the time that I still show as having a record, since that would be counterproductive at best.
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