Record clearance can seem complicated, and with the rise in AI generated content, there is a lot of misleading information out there. Because of this, many people are not sure how record clearance actually works. In this post, we cover five common myths about record clearance.
Myth 1: My record is old so it just dropped off or it can’t be cleared anymore.
Some people believe that if their record is old, that it just drops off automatically, or if it is of a certain age, then it can’t be cleared. This isn’t true. Criminal records are digital and permanent unless a person goes through the legal expungement process. So, if you have an old record, it’s probably still on your record, and there is a good chance it could be eligible for record clearance.
The Truth
Records don’t drop off like they do in bankruptcy or credit. They stay on your record unless you get them expunged.
Myth 2: Record clearance is only helpful for serious case types.
A lot of people believe minor records won’t hold them back and that record clearance is only helpful in the case of felonies or higher level charges. You might think that misdemeanors or lower level cases are not worth the trouble, or that arrest records and non-conviction records aren’t included on background checks. This is also a record clearance myth.
The Truth
If you want to get rid of your criminal record, you need to go through a legal record sealing or expungement process, even for non-convictions and arrests. Although it depends heavily on state law, dismissals, arrests, and minor records often still show up on background checks, which can create stress, require explanation in job interviews, and limit opportunities.
Myth 3: Record clearance is too difficult.
At first blush, the record clearance process can feel overwhelming. There are many rules, forms, and steps, which can make it confusing and hard to navigate. Because of this, it can seem like the entire process is out of reach.
The Truth
While the rules and forms governing record clearance can be hard to understand, there are many programs designed to make the process easier. Depending on your state, you may have access to pro bono attorneys, legal aid groups, and other helpful resources. Some states have automatic record clearance laws and some require paperwork.
At Rasa, we make the process simple and quick for our users. We’ve built easy-to-use software that helps reduce the time of our lawyers and makes it easy for a person to see the status of their cases at any time. If you are in one of the states where Rasa offers services, you only have to input your name and date of birth, and we’ll find your record, tell you what you are eligible for, and handle the process for you.
Myth 4: If I want to clear my record, I’ll have to go to court and relive what happened.
Many people avoid record clearance because they worry about going to court. They may think that they will have to go through the entire trial process again or explain past events in a stressful setting. Hearings or reviews can feel like they take too long, and the entire process can seem like more trouble than it is worth. Because of this, some people choose to avoid clearing their records, even when they are eligible.
The Truth
The truth is that hearings are rare. In many cases, people do not have to appear in court to get their records cleared. Sometimes the record is cleared automatically, which means all you need to do is check that the process worked as expected. Other times, a petition for record clearance is required, but does not require a court appearance.
Myth 5: Record clearance doesn’t make a difference and won’t help me access new opportunities.
There are a lot of myths floating around about criminal records, including the idea that in a digital age, a record is something that you can never totally leave behind. Some people say that clearing your record will not actually change anything and that the record clearance process will be pointless.
The Truth
Record clearance makes a meaningful difference in many parts of life. A record is often a barrier to stable employment or career-line jobs. Record clearance helps people get access to better jobs, and higher wages. Record clearance also improves housing access, and a person’s sense of self-worth and self-confidence.
In almost every situation, record clearance is worth it and comes with a lot of benefits. Not only do outcomes generally improve, but many of the things people tell us about criminal records end up being false. People with records can move on, and leave their record behind them. When you use Rasa as your lawyer, the cost is a fraction of the usual price, which makes the process even more accessible.
From myths to clearance
Record clearance may seem difficult, but many of people’s biggest worries come from myths, not facts. Once you understand how the process really works, you can see that taking action can help you move forward. Record clearance works and when you work with Rasa, it is simpler than it seems. Even small steps can make a big difference over time.
The best way to begin is to check your eligibility. Our online tool makes this quick and simple. It only takes a few minutes, and it shows you what options may be available to you. To get started, check out our eligibility tool today and see if you qualify.
