We all make mistakes, but they don’t have to follow you for life. In Hawai’i, we can help you determine whether you can clear any charges from your criminal record through expungement.  

If you’ve ever been in a situation where a past conviction or even an arrest has made things difficult for you—whether it’s finding a job, securing housing, or just moving forward, expungement could be worth looking into.

Let’s walk through what expungement is, how it works here in Hawai’i, and what you need to know to take that important step toward a fresh start. You’re not alone, and together, we’ll explore the possibilities.

Expunging Criminal Records in Hawai’i

Whether you’re seeking better employment, trying to secure housing, or just want the freedom to live your life without constantly being reminded of a past mistake, expunging your record can help.

How Expungement Works in Hawai’i

In Hawai’i, expungement refers to the legal process of clearing your criminal record for most purposes, giving you a fresh start.

However, many offenses cannot be expunged, and it can be complicated to figure out which ones you should apply for an expungement for. 

• Most charges that do not result in convictions can be expunged from your record.
• Convictions for offenses that are non-violent or related to first-time drug arrests are more likely to qualify for expungement.
• Convictions for crimes like violent felonies or serious drug trafficking are usually ineligible.

Once granted, an expungement order means your criminal conviction is no longer available to the public or potential employers.

At The Law Office of Caroline M. Elliot, we’re ready to help you navigate the expungement process with confidence.

Contact us today for a FREE consultation, and let’s work together to find your clean slate!

Eligibility for Expungement

The first step in clearing your record is determining your eligibility. Under Hawai’i state laws, eligibility often depends on

• The type of offense
• Whether the charge ended up in a conviction
• When the conviction occurred
• Whether you’ve completed all court-ordered requirements like probation or community service

You’ll also need to wait for the appropriate period after your conviction, as the courts want to see that you’ve stayed out of trouble since the offense occurred.

The Expungement Process in Hawai’i

Expunging your criminal record can be a detailed process, and it requires following specific legal steps.

First is filing an application with the Hawaii Criminal Justice Data Center. This application is fairly straight-forward, and you just include information about your offense. 

Once you submit your application, it is reviewed to see if it meets the requirements under the statute, HRS § 831-3.2.  If any charges or convictions on your criminal record meet the requirements for an expungement, you will be sent a certificate listing what has been expunged.  

Unfortunately, the offenses that can be expunged under Hawai`i law are limited.  The help of an experienced attorney can help you see whether you’re eligible before you put forth effort to apply for an expungement.

The process for an expungement takes up to 120 days to complete.

Getting Legal Help for Expungements

Navigating Hawai’i’s expungement laws can be complex, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the process.

Legal help can be invaluable, ensuring that your petition is properly filed and that you meet all the legal requirements. An expungement attorney can guide you through each step, from determining whether you qualify to helping submit your application.

Sealing Court Records

If your expungement application is granted and you are given a certificate of expungement, there is another step to take.  Most Hawai`i state charges and convictions are available to the public via the Court’s website, eCourt Kokua.  Being granted an expungement doesn’t remove the records from public record.  

Once your certificate of expungement is in hand, then you have to send a written request to the Court to seal your court records.  Only once that has been completed will your records be removed from the Court’s website.  

Reclaiming Your Future After Expungement

If you qualify and your record is expunged, you can move forward with your life without the constant burden of a criminal conviction. In most cases, you won’t need to disclose your expunged conviction to employers or housing authorities, giving you a better chance at new opportunities.

While some jurisdictions may still have access to your expunged records, your conviction will no longer exist for most purposes, allowing you to pursue a brighter future.

The Law Office of Caroline M. Elliot Can Help

At The Law Office of Caroline M. Elliot, we understand that one mistake shouldn’t define your entire life. If you’re looking to expunge your criminal record and get a fresh start, we’re here to help guide you through whether you could be eligible. 

Expungement is more than just clearing your name—it’s about reclaiming your future and opening new doors that might have been previously closed.

Personalized Legal Support

We know that every case is different, and that’s why we take the time to carefully evaluate your specific situation. From the moment you reach out, we review your criminal conviction, assess your eligibility for expungement, and craft a plan tailored to your needs.

Whether the offense occurred years ago or more recently, we’ll guide you through the necessary steps to file your petition and ensure all the paperwork is in order. Our focus is on making this process as smooth and stress-free as possible for you.

Handling the Complexities of the Expungement Process

The expungement process can be daunting, especially when it comes to dealing with court filings, legal documents, and the various steps involved in submitting your petition.

At The Law Office of Caroline M. Elliot, we handle everything for you

We know the ins and outs of Hawai’i’s expungement laws and ensure that every part of your case is thoroughly prepared to give you the best chance of a successful expungement.

Advocating for Your Fresh Start

Our legal team is committed to fighting for your right to move forward without the shadow of your criminal conviction holding you back. 

Our goal is to help you obtain an expungement order so that your criminal record no longer affects your employment, housing, or other opportunities. 

You deserve the chance to live your life without your past standing in your way, and we’re here to make that happen.

Start the Journey to a Clean Slate Today

Taking the first step toward expunging your record can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. At The Law Office of Caroline M. Elliot, we’re ready to help you navigate the expungement process with confidence.

Contact us today for a FREE consultation, and let’s work together to find your clean slate!