A past arrest or conviction does not have to define your future. Even after a criminal case has been resolved, a record can continue to create obstacles when applying for jobs, securing housing, pursuing educational opportunities, or obtaining certain professional licenses. At Capitelli & Wicker, we help clients determine whether they may be eligible for expungement under Louisiana law and guide them through every step of the process. Our attorneys carefully evaluate each case, explain your legal options, and prepare the necessary filings to help you pursue a fresh start with confidence.
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Understanding Expungement in Louisiana
Expungement is the legal process of sealing certain criminal records from public access. An expunged record is generally unavailable through standard public background checks, but it is not destroyed, and certain government agencies and law enforcement entities may still access it as permitted by Louisiana law.
Not every case qualifies for expungement. Eligibility depends on the offense, the disposition of the case, applicable waiting periods, and whether the offense is excluded from expungement under Louisiana law. Every case should be reviewed individually.
At Capitelli & Wicker, we help clients evaluate whether expungement is an option and guide them through each stage of the process.
What Records May Be Eligible for Expungement
Certain arrests that do not result in a conviction may be eligible for expungement, often without the lengthy waiting periods that apply to some convictions. Records involving an acquittal, dismissal, refusal to prosecute, a sustained motion to quash, certain deferred dispositions, or other qualifying outcomes under Louisiana law may also be eligible for expungement, depending on the circumstances.
Convictions for certain misdemeanor and felony offenses may also qualify after all applicable statutory waiting periods and legal requirements have been satisfied. Because Louisiana’s expungement laws vary based on the type of offense, the disposition of the case, and other statutory factors, every case should be carefully reviewed by an experienced expungement attorney to determine eligibility and the best path forward.
How the Expungement Process Works
Expungement involves more than filing a simple request. It requires gathering records, preparing documentation, and ensuring that all legal requirements are met.
Our attorneys work through each step of the process, including reviewing eligibility, preparing the necessary filings, and addressing any issues that may arise. Attention to detail is critical, as incomplete or inaccurate filings can delay or prevent approval.
Taking the time to approach the process correctly can make a meaningful difference in the outcome.
Why Choose Capitelli & Wicker for Your Expungement?
- Careful, Eligibility-Focused Approach – We take the time to evaluate whether expungement is available in your situation.
- Extensive Criminal Law Experience – Our background in criminal defense allows us to understand how records are created and maintained.
- Detail-Oriented Process – Expungement requires accuracy, and we ensure filings are properly prepared and submitted.
- Direct Attorney Involvement – You work with experienced attorneys who guide you through each step.
- Clear, Practical Guidance – We explain your options so you can make informed decisions.
- Focused on Moving Forward – Our goal is to help reduce the long-term impact of a past case and support your next steps.
Your fresh start begins with the right step. Schedule a consultation today!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is expungement?What is expungement?
Expungement is a legal process that can clear certain arrests or convictions from public view. For many people, it is a way to reduce the impact of a past case on everyday life.
Am I eligible for expungement?Am I eligible for expungement?
That depends on the type of charge, how the case ended, and how much time has passed. The best way to know is to have your record reviewed carefully.
Does expungement erase my record completely?Does expungement erase my record completely?
Not entirely. An expunged record is generally removed from public access, but certain agencies may still be able to see it.
How long does the expungement process take?
Processing times vary by parish, court workload, and whether any objections are filed.
Do I have to go to court for expungement?Do I have to go to court for expungement?
Not always. Many expungement petitions are resolved without a court appearance, although hearings may be required depending on the court, the prosecutor’s position, or the specific circumstances of the case.
Can felony records be expunged?
Certain felony convictions may qualify for expungement if all statutory requirements are met. However, many offenses—including numerous violent crimes, sex offenses, and other offenses specifically excluded by Louisiana law—are not eligible. Eligibility should always be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
What happens after my record is expunged? What happens after my record is expunged?
Once the expungement is granted, the record is sealed from public access. That can make it easier to move forward with employment, housing, and other opportunities.
How can Capitelli & Wicker help with my expungement?
We review your record, determine whether expungement may be available, and handle the process with care from start to finish. Our goal is to help you move forward with clarity and confidence.
Areas Served
- Baton Rouge
- Belle Chase
- Covington
- Gonzales
- Hammond
- Houma
- Jefferson Parish
- Kenner
- Lafayette
- Laplace
- Luling
- Mandeville
- Marrero
- Metairie
- New Orleans
- Orleans Parish
- Plaquemines Parish
- Slidell
- St. Bernard Parish
- St. Charles Parish
- St. James Parish
- St. John the Baptist Parish
- St. Tammany Parish
- Tangipahoa Parish
- Thibodaux
- Washington Parish
- Baton Rouge
- Belle Chase
- Covington
- Gonzales
- Hammond
- Houma
- Jefferson Parish
- Kenner
- Lafayette
- Laplace
- Luling
- Mandeville
- Marrero
- Metairie
- New Orleans
- Orleans Parish
- Plaquemines Parish
- Slidell
- St. Bernard Parish
- St. Charles Parish
- St. James Parish
- St. John the Baptist Parish
- St. Tammany Parish
- Tangipahoa Parish
- Thibodaux
- Washington Parish
Start Your Louisiana Expungement Today
A past record does not have to define your future. With the right approach, it may be possible to clear eligible records and move forward with greater confidence. At Capitelli & Wicker, we take a careful and informed approach to expungement, helping clients understand their options and take meaningful steps toward a fresh start.
