Get a Fresh Start. Expungement in Tennessee Can Help You Move Forward.

A criminal record can follow you for years, holding you back from jobs, housing, and opportunities. But it does not have to. Expungement gives you the chance to clear your record and start over with a clean slate.

At Burks & Ogle, we guide people through the expungement process with care and urgency. If you qualify, we will help you erase past mistakes so you can focus on your future.

Call (865) 522-4964 or contact us online now for your Free Consultation.

What Is Expungement?

Expungement is the legal process of erasing a criminal arrest or conviction from your record. Once your record is expunged, it is as if it never happened. You do not have to disclose it to employers, landlords, or licensing boards.

However, expungement cannot erase public memory. If your record was made public in the news or on social media, expungement will not remove that. Federal expungements are rare. Most happen in state courts.

How Expungement Works in Tennessee

Expungement laws and processes vary by state. In Tennessee, the process typically includes:

1. Filing a petition with the court where your case was heard.
2. Serving the petition on the prosecutor.
3. Attending a hearing where the court decides if your record should be cleared.

You should consult with a criminal defense lawyer to ensure you are eligible and that your petition is properly prepared.

What Can Be Expunged in Tennessee?

In Tennessee, under T.C.A. 40-32-101, certain convictions and arrests qualify for expungement.

Eligible Convictions:

• Non-violent crimes
• Non-sexual crimes
• Vandalism
• Theft
• Forgery

Serious offenses like murder, sex crimes, fraud, and DUI are typically not eligible.

Eligible Arrest Records:

• Arrests with no conviction
• Acquittals
• Dismissed or withdrawn charges
• Cases resolved through diversion programs

Why Expungement Matters

A criminal record can limit your ability to:

• Get a job
• Find housing
• Apply for loans
• Obtain a professional license

Expungement opens new doors. It gives you a chance to live without the burden of a past mistake. With a clean record, more opportunities become available.

Three Reasons to Hire an Expungement Attorney

1. Confirm Eligibility: Laws change, and eligibility is not always clear. We will review your record and the latest laws to confirm if you qualify.
2. Build a Strong Case: We help gather the right documents and present a strong argument to the court.
3. Improve Your Chances: Mistakes in your petition can delay or prevent expungement. We help you get it right the first time.

Contact an Expungement Lawyer in Knoxville Today

If you think you may be eligible for expungement, act now. The sooner you start, the sooner you can leave your record behind.

At Burks & Ogle, we treat expungement cases with the urgency they deserve. Let us help you move forward.

Call (865) 522-4964 or contact us online today to schedule your Free Consultation.