Often, individuals who are arrested and jailed for certain offenses reoffend after being released. Within a few years, they may be arrested again, sometimes for the same crime. Prison sentences are—in theory—supposed to help reform those who have broken the law and should act as a deterrent to crime, but it’s clear that this is not actually what they do.
Expungement is the process of sealing someone’s criminal record so that it doesn’t show up on background checks. For instance, if they apply for a job, their employer won’t see that they’ve been arrested in the past. Can this help lower the likelihood of reoffending after someone has served time?
Creating a positive future
Yes, expungement can help reduce reoffending, specifically because it opens doors to a more positive future.
Many people reoffend because having a criminal record makes life challenging. Upon release, they may struggle to find a job, as employers often refuse to hire applicants with a criminal record. Even if they are well-qualified, employers may choose another equally qualified candidate without a record. As a result, these individuals may turn to illegal activities—such as theft or drug sales—out of desperation to make money.
In this sense, expungement provides them with more opportunities. It can make it easier to secure employment, reducing the need to return to the criminal activities that led to the initial arrest. By sealing their record, expungement helps them build a positive future, rather than being held back by past mistakes.
This is just one potential benefit of having a record sealed. If you are interested in this process, take the time to learn about the legal steps required to pursue expungement.