Q: Does Alabama allow for the expunging of criminal records? Will they do it for a third degree forgery charge from 1999?
A:
Alabama law does not currently provide for expungement of criminal records of convictions, except for specific situations where there has been a mistake made in the record. For most people, there is no way to get a conviction cleared off of their record. During the last few years, there have been repeated efforts to get the Alabama legislature to pass an expungement law that would enable people to clear old crimes off of their records. As of right now, that law has not been passed. However, it is my understanding that it will be resubmitted during the next legislative session. I would suggest that you contact your state senator and state representative, and ask them to support passage of an expungement bill in Alabama.
Even though you cannot get an expungement, you may be able to petition to receive a pardon or at least a partial restoration of rights. This may at least enable you to get your voting rights restored. However, under current Alabama law you will not be able to have the conviction expunged. Put pressure on your state legislators and get them to enact the expungement bill this year.
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