How to Clear Your Criminal Record in Tennessee

Just as with many other states, having a criminal record in Tennessee can severely limit your prospects. The criminal record will pop up every time someone runs a background check on you, even if didn’t get convicted.

This can significantly limit your future employment opportunities, and affect where you may or may not reside. Fortunately, Tennessee laws allow individuals to expunge certain criminal arrests or charges from their criminal record. An expungement means that the record is deleted by the court.

At Nash Law in Nashville, TN, our criminal defense attorneys understand the challenges that individuals with a criminal record may face, which is why we are always committed to helping them successfully navigate the expungement process.

Understanding Expungement of Criminal Record in Tennessee

Expungement refers to the legal process of erasing or removing a criminal record from public view. Under Tennessee law, there are certain offenses that can be expunged under specific conditions. Some of the eligible offenses include misdemeanors, certain felonies, and juvenile offenses.

Typically, a set period must pass after the completion of the sentence or probation before expungement can be pursued.

Once your criminal record has been expunged, it will no longer be publicly accessible. Potential employers, landlords, and other individuals interested in your criminal history will not be able to access your expunged record.

However, there are some exceptions:

  • Government Agencies and Law Enforcement: Certain government agencies and law enforcement entities may still retain access to your criminal record even after expungement.
  • Criminal Investigations and Security Clearance Checks: In rare cases, specific criminal investigations or security clearance checks might uncover your expunged record.

Overall, an expunged criminal record will no longer be a significant barrier to obtaining employment, housing, or other opportunities that may have been previously unavailable to you.

The Importance of Expungement for Employment

Securing employment can be a major challenge for individuals with criminal records. Many employers conduct background checks during the hiring process, and a criminal record can disqualify otherwise qualified candidates. Obtaining an expungement allows individuals to “wipe the slate clean” and improve their chances of finding meaningful employment opportunities.

Expungement and Professional Licensing

Expungement can also significantly impact obtaining professional licenses in Tennessee. Many professions, such as nursing, teaching, and law enforcement, require background checks as part of the licensing process. A criminal record can be a barrier, but with an expungement, individuals may have a better chance of pursuing their chosen career paths.

Image is of someone filling out a criminal background check form, concept of how to clear your criminal record

Expungement and Job Applications

When applying for jobs, candidates often must disclose any past criminal convictions. However, with an expunged record, individuals in Tennessee can legally answer “no” to questions about prior convictions. This levels the playing field, giving them a fair chance to compete for employment opportunities.

Building Trust with Employers

Employers value honesty and integrity. By seeking expungement, individuals demonstrate their commitment to rehabilitation and their willingness to take responsibility for past mistakes. This proactive step can help build trust with potential employers and showcase the individual’s dedication to turning their life around.

Educational and Housing Opportunities

A criminal record can affect more than just employment; it can also impact educational and housing opportunities. Many educational institutions perform background checks during the admissions process and may deny entry based on certain convictions.

By expunging a criminal record, individuals can improve their chances of acceptance into educational programs, allowing them to pursue academic and professional growth.

Similarly, some housing applications in TN may require you to disclose your criminal history, and landlords may be reluctant to rent to individuals with convictions. Expungement can alleviate these concerns, giving individuals a better chance to secure stable housing and rebuild their lives.

Which Criminal Charges Can and Cannot Be Expunged in Tennessee?

In Tennessee, not all criminal charges and convictions are eligible for expungement.

Charges that generally cannot be expunged include:

However, the following types of offenses may be eligible for expungement:

  • Misdemeanors: Less serious criminal offenses.
  • Non-Violent Felonies: Felonies that do not involve violence.
  • Many Drug Offenses: Especially first-time drug possession.

For example, a first-time drug possession charge or a charge that was dismissed or resulted in a not-guilty verdict can often be expunged. Additionally, if you were convicted as a minor, you may have more options for expungement or record sealing.

Contact a Nashville Criminal Defense Lawyer Today to Learn More About Clearing Your Criminal Record

A criminal arrest or charge should not negatively impact the rest of your life. Consult with a criminal defense lawyer in Nashville, TN today to see if you qualify for an expungement. The team at Nash Law has experience working with many kinds of criminal cases on both sides of the aisle.

You can be sure that we know the details of Tennessee expungement statutes. We are committed to making sure our clients get quality representation for their unique circumstances in expunging their criminal records.

Call us today at 615-NASH-LAW to discuss more about getting your criminal record expunged.