Having a criminal record in Barton County can feel like a heavy weight, often showing up at the worst possible times—like when you’re applying for a new job in Great Bend or trying to rent an apartment. If a past mistake is holding you back, you may be eligible to have that record sealed through a legal process known as expungement.
At ExpungeKansasRecord.com, we specialize in helping Kansans or former residents navigate the complexities of the law to secure a clean slate. In this post, we’ll break down how the process works specifically for those with records in Barton County, Kansas.
What is Expungement?
In Kansas, expungement is a legal court order that "seals" an arrest, conviction, or diversion from public view. Once your record is expunged, it will no longer appear on most standard background checks. Under Kansas law, you can legally state that you have never been arrested or convicted of that crime (with a few specific exceptions for certain government or law enforcement roles).
Are You Eligible for Expungement in Barton County?
Eligibility depends on several factors, including the type of crime and how much time has passed since you completed your sentence.
1. The Waiting Period
Before you can petition the Barton County District Court, a specific amount of time must have passed since you "satisfied" your sentence (this includes completing probation, parole, and paying all fines/restitution):
3 Years: Most misdemeanors and lower-level felonies.
5 Years: Higher-level felonies and certain traffic-related offenses like Driving While Suspended.
5 to 10 Years: DUI convictions (the timeframe depends on whether it was a first, second, or subsequent offense).
2. Your Recent Record
To be eligible, you must not have been convicted of a felony in the past two years, and you cannot have any new felony charges currently pending against you.
3. Non-Eligible Crimes
It is important to note that certain serious crimes—such as capital murder, rape, and various crimes against children—are not eligible for expungement under Kansas statute.
The Barton County Process
If your record originated in Barton County, your petition must be filed in the district where the case was heard. The process typically involves:
Filing a Petition: Submitting the formal request to the clerk of the court.
Paying the Filing Fee: Barton County, like other Kansas counties, requires a docket fee (typically around $195, though this can vary or be waived with a poverty affidavit).
The Hearing: Sometimes the judge or prosecuting attorney will want to review your behavior since the conviction and determine if "the circumstances and behavior of the petitioner warrant expungement." We strive to avoid this hearing if possible or and have your expungement granted without hearing. This is not always possible but we do our level best to avoid additional court appearances.
Why Seek an Expungement?
A clean record is an investment in your future. Residents in Barton County find that expungement opens doors to:
Better Employment: Pass employer background checks with confidence.
Housing Security: Many landlords in Great Bend and Hoisington screen for criminal histories.
Professional Licensing: Certain state-issued certifications are easier to obtain with a sealed record.
Peace of Mind: Finally leaving the past in the past.
Take the First Step: Check Your Eligibility
The laws surrounding Kansas expungements can be confusing. Is your specific offense eligible? Has enough time passed?
We’ve made it easy to find out. Visit www.expungekansasrecord.com and take our free 60-second eligibility questionnaire. It’s a fast, confidential way to see if you are ready to start the process and reclaim your future in Barton County.
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