How to Get Petty Fraud Charges Expunged from Your Record

A petty fraud conviction, and sometimes even a petty fraud charge that was unfounded, can affect your chance of getting certain jobs. Certain jurisdictions allow you to petition the court to petty fraud charges expunged from your record. If your case is eligible, having the charges expunged is usually a good idea.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Pay fines, fees and restitution, if applicable. Most courts will only expunge petty fraud charges if all money owed to the court has been paid in full.
2. Complete any classes, probation, community service or other requirements imposed by the judge as result of your conviction. You should wait until these are completed or almost completed to file for your charge to be expunged.
3. Contact an attorney to find out if your petty fraud charges are eligible to be expunged. Different jurisdictions have different requirements. Make sure that you are totally honest with the attorney about every aspect of your conviction and criminal history.
4. Be a model citizen. The court is more likely to expunge the record of a person who has stayed out of trouble. You can also increase your chances of having your record expunged by having a job and stable residence.
5. Show up on time for all of your scheduled court appearances. Being late or missing a court date will reflect negatively on you and may prevent you from getting your charge expunged.
6. Get a copy of your criminal record. Your attorney should be able to provide one to you. Make sure that the charge has been expunged. Keep in mind that it can take up to six months for the charge to be removed from every database that maintain criminal records.