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Philadelphia Expungement Lawyer

Criminal Record Expungement Attorney in Philadelphia, PA Clearing Paths to a Fresh Start Throughout Southeastern Pennsylvania

We all make mistakes. However, for some of us, these mistakes have long-term repercussions. This is especially true when your actions result in an arrest, charge, or conviction. Even if your charges are dismissed, or withdrawn, or if you get a ‘not guilty’ verdict, the record will still remain. This record will be accessible to the public. Your record will turn up on background checks by potential employers, landlords, credit companies, landlords, and more. It can lead to termination from your current position, rejection by a potential employer, inability to access credit, and more. Expungement gives you a second chance. An experienced Philadelphia expungement attorney from our law firm can help.

At van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin we understand the impact that records on criminal charges and convictions can have on a person’s life. We know just how difficult it can be to turn over a new leaf and make a better life for yourself when you have to live under the shadow of your past mistakes. We are committed to helping our clients get a second chance at life. We are skilled and experienced at navigating the expungement process in Pennsylvania. We will help you get the best possible outcome in your case.

Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with an experienced and knowledgeable criminal record expungement lawyer in Philadelphia, PA, and learn whether you are eligible for expungement and how we can help.

Find Out What Your Case is Worth

We invite you to reach out to us today to schedule a free consultation with a member of our team. Call (215) 610-3440 or contact us online to learn more.

    The team is definitely a dream team straight outta Philadelphia Center City!
    “I first want to thank this dream team they definitely was a pleasure to work with and I am glad I chose Van der Veen law firm to get the jobs”
    - RB
    You should not go anywhere else.
    “This firm is the absolute best! Very knowledgeable, pleasant, and amazing!! I recommend this Law firm to anyone with an issue.  can't speak highly enough for this firm and it's attorneys! It was truly a wonderful experience.”
    - Bennie H.
    Having been represented on different subjects Mike has provided the same outstanding results!
    “This law firm has been nothing but the best for my company! Mr. van der Veen has always worked very hard and communicated well with each situation that he has represented me in. I would highly recommend this firm!”
    - Sewall M. Jr.
    They handled every aspect of my case with integrity and pride.
    “Wonderful customer service. The team at van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin is the real deal. I would definitely recommend them.”
    - Former Client
    They make my concerns their concerns.
    “Thank you for always picking up the phone. I could not have a better firm representing myself, family and my friends. If you want an attorney that gets the job done, Look no more!!! Contact Attorney van der Veen.”
    - Leslie L.
    Michael is superb! Great attorney, great team, great job.
    “Outcome was better than expected. Forever thankful to Mike’s reliable firm. If you want great results they are your guys. Strongly recommend.”
    - Ninel B.
    Guided me through the process for a success.
    “Very satisfied with the way they handled my case, answer all my question, provided me with needed information.”
    - Frank A.
    They take full control of your case allowing you to have peace of mind while they win.
    “I have been a client of this firm for many years now, and all that I can say is these are the Top Lawyers in the City! My experience over the years have been excellent! Thank you van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin. Job very well done.”
    - Quiana

Am I Eligible for Expungement in Philadelphia?

Expungement is the process through which information on past criminal charges is removed from law enforcement records as well as other official databases. This process allows you to live without the shadow of your past mistakes following you. Your record of arrest, charges, or conviction will no longer turn up in background checks.

However, to be able to have your records expunged, you must first ensure that you are eligible. The requirements for eligibility for record expungement in Philadelphia are very specific. You are eligible for expungement under Pennsylvania law if:

  • Your criminal charges were dismissed by a court of law due to lack of evidence or prosecution or if the charges were withdrawn or not processed by the district attorney before the trial.
  • You were found to be not guilty after a jury or judge trial
  • You have successfully completed your pre-trial probation and all other terms and conditions of the ARD program and have fully paid any court costs, fines, and restitution.
  • It has been five years since you pled guilty or were found guilty of a summary offense and have never been arrested for another offense ever since.
  • If you were found guilty of underage drinking and have turned 21
  • If you have completed all requirements of your program after entering a no-contest plea under sections 17 and 18 of the Drug Act. This includes having paid fines and court costs.

It is important to note that your records will not be expunged automatically. It is your responsibility to file an expungement petition with the court. While there are no circumstances under which records can be expunged automatically, if you were able to benefit from a pre-trial diversion program, your records will be automatically expunged through the court system. This is the only instance where you will not need to file a petition for expungement.

If you’re unsure about your diversionary program or whether you are eligible to seek expungement of your records, contact van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin to consult with an experienced Philadelphia expungement attorney. We will review your case and explain your rights and options to you.

The Person Who Sees The Whole Picture Meet Michael T. van der Veen
From local business owners, to the President of the United States, we fight for everyone's best interest. As founder of the firm, Michael T. van der Veen effortlessly combines accessibility, experience, negotiation, collaboration, and compassion to achieve results. He is the rare trial attorney who excels in both civil litigation and criminal defense. Known for his unwavering commitment to serving as the voice of the victim and advocate for the accused, he has established his reputation by winning multimillion-dollar jury verdicts in State and Federal Courts, as well as winning major criminal trials across the country.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Record Expungement in Philadelphia, PA

Have questions? We are here to help. Still have questions or can't find the answer you need? Give us a call at 215-610-3440 today!

  • Expungement means having your criminal record removed from public record. This means that your criminal record will no longer turn up on background checks. This can help you access opportunities that were previously not available to you when your criminal record was accessible to the public. For example, you will be able to access employment opportunities that may not have been accessible with a criminal history. Having your criminal record expunged will give you a second chance at life.

    Contact van der Veen, Hartshorn and Levin to work with an experienced Philadelphia expungement attorney from our law firm. We will fight for the best possible outcome in your case. We will help you get that second chance you need.

  • Yes. It is in your best interests to hire an experienced Philadelphia expungement attorney when seeking an expungement. The process of expunging criminal records has very specific requirements. The process can also be quite confusing. In addition, any mistake made in completing the forms or in meeting the requirements can result in your request for expungement being denied.

    When you hire an experienced attorney from van der Veen, Hartshorn and Levin, you will have the benefit of an experienced team working on every aspect of your case. We will work to get the best possible outcome in your case and help you get that second chance you need.

    Contact us today to schedule a consultation with an experienced record expungement lawyer in Philadelphia, PA, and learn whether or not you qualify for record expungement and how we can help.

  • Eligibility depends on your specific situation. Expungement is available for cases where charges were dismissed, withdrawn, or resulted in a not guilty verdict. It may also apply if you successfully completed the ARD program, if five years have passed since a summary offense conviction with no subsequent arrests, if you were convicted of underage drinking and have turned 21, or if you completed programs under certain sections of the Drug Act. An expungement attorney can review your case and determine whether you meet the legal criteria.
  • Yes. When your record is expunged, the information is removed from law enforcement databases and from public access. This means employers, landlords, schools, and licensing boards will no longer see the expunged charges during background checks. However, some records may still be retained internally for limited law enforcement purposes. For practical purposes, expungement allows you to move forward without your past affecting your opportunities.

in their own words

Clients share their experiences and results firsthand
    "He represented me in multiple criminal cases, and I had a lengthy criminal record. He never judged me, and treated me like anybody else, he never looked at me different. He's a real good guy, professional, very honest. When I say I never went to another attorney...he's the best." -Tiffany
    "I love that I have Mike on my side, whenever I question what am I supposed to do? I used to call my dad and after my dad passed, even for things that aren’t always law related, I know I could still call Mike, and I love that about him. He’s just amazing, and I know that if I send somebody here that they’re going to be represented a hundred percent." -Jamie
    "this law firm has afforded low income people of Philadelphia a relationship with an attorney that they can come and meet. To have a the intuition to give a damn about the little people, and then give them that same kind of respect and consideration is unmatched." -Melvin
    "He gives you the impression there’s a person you can count on, a person that you can rely on in terms of having some representation. He kept me informed, he kept me up to date with everything that was going on throughout the process. What doctor, what appointments, who I have to see…I was always very well informed." -Sam

the complete coverage advantage

  • Full-Spectrum
    Law

    From criminal defense to personal injury and beyond, clients gain seamless, strategic support from a full-service law firm built to handle every legal challenge under one roof.

  • Values-Driven
    Practice

    From pro bono advocacy to charitable and community involvement, our attorneys are deeply invested in the people and causes they serve, because real justice includes giving back.

  • Human-Centered
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    We stand as the voice of the injured and a strong advocate for the accused. We don’t just see a case, we see the people and futures at stake, and we fight accordingly.

  • High-Caliber
    Results

    Our attorneys are nationally recognized, featured in major media, and trusted with the complex, high-stakes cases, because when the outcome matters most, experience matters more.

Safe and Protected with Powerful Representation

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