Record Expungement
How do I get my criminal conviction vacated or expunged?
Would you like to get a criminal conviction removed from your record? Are you concerned about disclosing your criminal record on employment or housing applications? You may be eligible to get some convictions erased from your record. In Washington, removing charges from your file is also referred to as “expunging” or “vacating” your record. Contact us today for assistance. If you live out of state, are busy with work, or nervous appearing in front of a judge, we may be able to take care of the process for you without you ever having to appear in court.
Washington State recently changed the law on expunging your record. Because every case is different, contact a professional attorney for an individual consultation. To get your conviction vacated, you must meet some baseline requirements. The rules are different for felony, misdemeanor, and domestic violence assault charges.
Misdemeanor and Gross Misdemeanor Vacation Requirements
Felony Vacation Requirements
Every case is unique, so the checklist above serves as a general guideline. Contact our office for a free case evaluation.
After Expungement
In most circumstances, once a criminal conviction is vacated or expunged, you will be released from all penalties associated with the conviction, and you can legally state on a job or housing application that you have not been convicted of that crime.
Once the court expunges your conviction, the clerk of the court will notify the Washington State Patrol and local law enforcement agencies to update their records and erase your conviction. Additionally, a notification will be sent to the FBI to update their records and remove your conviction.
Vacating your criminal conviction does not automatically restore your right to possess a firearm. Getting your firearms back will require a separate process. Contact us today for more information.
A criminal conviction does not need to stay on your record forever. We can help turn your life around and put this criminal charge behind you for good. We offer affordable services at a flat-fee. Call or email us today to set up a free consultation.
Vancouver Firearm Restoration Lawyer
Your Second Amendment right to possess a firearm is a fundamental bedrock of our constitution. We understand that a restriction of your ability to own a gun can be devastating. Whether you are a serious hunter, an avid gun collector, or need protection to defend your home, a criminal conviction barring you from possessing a gun can negatively affect your life. If you need your firearm rights restored, we may be able to help. Even more, we may be able to assist without you ever having to come to court. Call to find out more.

Some Washington state criminal convictions (link to RCW 9.41.040) will result in a loss of your right to possess a firearm. In Washington, any felony criminal conviction and some misdemeanor Domestic Violence criminal convictions will automatically result in the revocation of your right to possess a firearm.
These can include:
You will not be eligible to possess a firearm until the Court has restored your right to do so. The consequences of being caught in unlawful possession of a firearm can be dire. Do not risk it; contact an experienced firearm restoration attorney for assistance in restoring your right to possess a gun. We will take care of the process for you.
Am I eligible to restore my firearms, right?
Generally speaking, to qualify for restoration of your gun rights, you must meet certain baseline criteria:
Call our office today for a free consultation to see if you are eligible to have your firearm rights restored in Washington. We will take the time to review your case and come up with a detailed action plan to restore your rights. We will draft and file all the necessary paperwork with the court. We will communicate with the court and the prosecutor to schedule you the earliest available court hearing. At Carley Legal Services, our goal is to make this a smooth and easy process for you to restore your rights.
Does Expungement Clear Your Record?
An expungement will clear your record of ever having been convicted of a crime. If you have expunged a crime from your record, then when you go to apply for a job or submit a rental application, you can mark that you have never been convicted of that crime.
What Kind Of Crimes Can Be Expunged?
Most crimes can be expunged, except for Class A felonies, DUI’s and related driving offenses, violent offenses or attempted violent offenses (link to RCW 9.94A.030), sex offenses, pornography and obscenity offenses, or sexual exploitation of children offenses. Talk to an expungement lawyer to discuss your particular offense.
How Long Does It Take For Your Record To Clear After Expungement?
Once the judge signs the Order vacating your crime, the clerk of the court will then send the Order to the Washington State Patrol for them to update their records.
Does Your Criminal Record Clear After Seven Years?
No. Your criminal record will remain intact unless you petition to have your criminal offense expunged or vacated.
Do Expunged Records Show Up On Background Checks?
No. Expunged records will not show up on background checks. Once you have your criminal offense vacated or expunged, you can legally tell your employer that you were never convicted of the crime.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense Attorney in Vancouver WA
What is a criminal defense attorney? A criminal defense attorney is a legal professional who specializes in defending individuals or organizations accused of committing a crime. What types of cases do criminal defense attorneys handle? Criminal defense attorneys handle a wide range of cases, including drug offenses, DUI, theft, assault, domestic violence, white-collar crimes, and more. Do I need a criminal defense attorney if I’m innocent? Yes, even if you are innocent, it’s important to have an attorney to protect your rights, navigate the legal system, and ensure your innocence is proven.Carley Legal Services Is Proud To Be A Locally-Owned Business In Vancouver WA
Nestled in the heart of Vancouver, Washington, Carley Legal Services is your go-to, locally-owned legal company dedicated to serving the vibrant community of the Pacific Northwest. Our commitment to excellence and personalized service sets us apart.At Carley Legal Services, we understand the importance of our local attractions, and we’re deeply rooted in our community. Just minutes away from the historic Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, we draw inspiration from our region’s rich history of resilience and transformation, mirroring our approach to legal challenges.Like the Vancouver Land Bridge, which symbolizes connections and bridges between cultures, our team builds bridges between our clients and the legal solutions they seek. We strive to bring clarity and understanding to complex legal matters, just as the Land Bridge bridges two sides of the Fort Vancouver National Historic Site.Much like the Pearson Air Museum, where the stories of flight and innovation come alive, our legal expertise takes flight in crafting innovative strategies to address your unique legal needs.Carley Legal Services is proud to be part of the fabric of Vancouver, Washington, and we’re here to provide you with dedicated, local legal support that reflects the strength and unity of our remarkable community. Direction to Carley Legal ServicesYour Search For An Experienced Legal Service Near Me Is Over
Located in the heart of Vancouver, Washington, Carley Legal Services is your hometown legal ally, offering a comprehensive range of legal services. Our locally-owned firm is deeply committed to serving the unique needs of our community.At Carley Legal Services, we understand the importance of accessibility, much like the convenient local bus stops. Our office is strategically located near key transit centers like Fisher’s Landing Transit Center, Vancouver 99th Street Transit Center, and Vancouver Mall Transit Center, making it easy for you to reach us when you need legal assistance.We specialize in a wide array of legal matters, including DUI defense, Domestic Violence Attorney services, and expert representation for Felony Charges. Our experienced team is dedicated to providing you with personalized, effective legal solutions tailored to your specific needs.Whether you’re facing a legal challenge or simply seeking guidance, Carley Legal Services is here to ensure your legal journey is as smooth as possible. Trust us to be your reliable legal partner in Vancouver, WA, with local knowledge and a commitment to community excellence. Transit Directions To Carley Legal ServicesOur Team Is Proud To Work In Many Neighborhoods Throughout Vancouver, WA, Including:
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“Excellent lawyer! I would recommend Tom to anyone in need of quality representation.”-Julia H. Read More Reviews Here“Tom is an amazing lawyer he definitely has the clients best interest at heart. If ever in need of services again he will definitely be our families first choice. Highly recommended.”-Dawn Q. Read More Reviews Here“Tom was amazing to work with! He did everything he could plus some and got me the outcome that was best suited for my case. I would highly Recommend Mr. Carley for any legal needs!”-Luketown Read More Reviews HereAt Carley Legal Services, We Offer A Wide Range Of Services, Including:
- DUI
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- Driver License Lawyer
- Firearm Right Restoration