In Pennsylvania, being charged with a crime can follow you long after the case is over. Many people believe that if they were not convicted, the charge disappears on its own. That is not the case. Even if charges were dismissed or withdrawn, the fact that you were arrested remains part of your record unless you take action to remove it.
What Shows Up on Your Criminal Record
When someone runs a background check, your record may show the charge with a note like “disposition unreported” or “charges withdrawn.” This still indicates that you were involved in a criminal case. Employers, landlords, and professional licensing boards often review background checks. Seeing a charge, even without a conviction, can cause problems.
Expungement Is the Solution
Expungement is a legal process that removes all traces of an arrest or criminal charge from your record. Once an expungement is granted, law enforcement agencies and the courts are required to destroy all related records.
This includes:
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Police reports
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Court filings from the magistrate’s office
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Fingerprints and booking photographs
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Documents held by the district attorney’s office
The result is a clean record with no indication that you were ever charged.
Who Qualifies for Expungement
You may be eligible for an expungement if:
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You were charged with a crime but not convicted
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The charges were dismissed or withdrawn
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You were found not guilty at trial
It is important to understand that expungement is not automatic. You must petition the court and follow specific legal procedures. The court will review your request and issue an order if you qualify.
Why Expungement Matters
A criminal charge, even without a conviction, can affect many areas of your life. Job applications, housing opportunities, school admissions, and even volunteer work can be influenced by what appears on your background check. Removing this information gives you the chance to move forward without the shadow of an old charge.
How PKN Law Can Help
Attorney Patrick Nightingale has over twenty four years of experience in the criminal justice system. As a former prosecutor and now a defense attorney, he understands how damaging even a dismissed charge can be. At PKN Law, we help clients navigate the expungement process and take back control of their lives. We will review your record, determine your eligibility, and file the necessary petitions with the court. We are committed to ensuring that a past arrest does not limit your future.
Take the First Step Today
If you were charged with a crime in Pennsylvania but were not convicted, you may have the right to remove that charge from your record completely. You do not have to let one mistake or misunderstanding affect your future. Call PKN Law at (412) 454-5582 or visit patricknightingale.com to schedule a confidential consultation.