Maryland Expungement Handbook: Procedures and Law for Clearing Criminal Records The Maryland Expungement Handbook is a comprehensive guide that outlines the procedures and laws governing the expungement process in Maryland. It provides individuals with a step-by-step process to clear their criminal records, offering them a fresh start and improved opportunities for employment, education, and housing. Key topics covered within the Maryland Expungement Handbook: 1. Maryland Expungement Laws: This section details the laws and regulations pertaining to expungements in Maryland. It explains who is eligible for expungement, the types of offenses that can be expunged, and the criteria that must be met to qualify for expungement. 2. Expungement Procedures: The handbook provides a detailed breakdown of the expungement process, including the forms required, the necessary documentation, and the specific steps individuals need to take to navigate through the legal system successfully. It outlines the timeline, court filing procedures, and hearings involved in expungement cases. 3. Types of Maryland Expungements: a. Adult Expungements: This subsection focuses on expungements for adult offenses committed in Maryland. It delves into the different categories of crimes that can be expunged and those that are ineligible for expungement, such as violent offenses and certain felonies. It also discusses the waiting period required before being eligible for expungement. b. Juvenile Expungements: In this section, the handbook explores the expungement process for individuals who committed offenses while they were minors. It covers the specific provisions within the Maryland Juvenile Code that pertain to expunging juvenile records and the circumstances under which expungement can be granted. c. Non-Conviction Expungements: The handbook addresses expungements for charges that did not result in a conviction. It outlines the criteria and procedures for clearing arrest records, dismissed charges, and cases with a nolle prosequi or a probation before judgment (PBA) disposition. d. Pardon-Based Expungements: This subsection explains the expungement process for those who have obtained a gubernatorial pardon in Maryland. It clarifies the requirements and procedures for applying for expungement based on a pardon. 4. Information Resources: The handbook provides valuable resources such as contact details for relevant government agencies, court forms, and reference materials. It also includes FAQs and examples of successful expungement cases to help individuals better understand the process. By providing detailed explanations, step-by-step instructions, and specific eligibility criteria, the Maryland Expungement Handbook equips individuals with the knowledge and resources necessary to navigate the complex process of clearing their criminal records in Maryland. Whether seeking an adult expungement, juvenile expungement, non-conviction expungement, or pardon-based expungement, individuals can rely on this handbook to understand their rights and increase their chances of a successful expungement.