Many people seek expungement after a false conviction. There have been hundreds of expungements related to DNA evidence, for example. Someone may have been convicted based on the testimony given by an eyewitness, but DNA later proves that the eyewitness was wrong, so the conviction is overturned.
But what if the person made a false confession? As odd as it sounds, we also know, statistically speaking, that this happens. There are recorded cases of people admitting to crimes that they never committed. Would it be possible for someone to seek an expungement in that scenario?
Why does this happen?
The short answer is that yes, even someone who made a false confession may be able to seek an expungement and work toward having their conviction overturned.
One important thing to consider is why they would make that confession in the first place. False confessions are often linked to long and rigorous interrogations, as well as manipulative techniques used by the police. Young offenders are more at risk, especially if investigators put them under some sort of duress or make them believe that giving the confession would be helpful.
For instance, say that the police believe a 16-year-old driver was under the influence of drugs and caused a fatal car accident. The driver knows they did not do anything wrong, but the police tell them that if they just admit to breaking the law, they can go home and see their parents. The young driver confesses and is then convicted. But as it turns out, they were just manipulated by the police. They never broke the law, and they need to know what options they have to expunge their record.
Expungement cases can be difficult and complex, so it is very important to work with an experienced law firm at this time.