If you’ve ever had a run-in with the law in Hays, Victoria, or Ellis, you know that a criminal record doesn’t just stay in the past, it follows you. Whether it’s a mistake from your college days at Fort Hays State University or a more recent hurdle, a criminal record in Ellis County can hold you back from your next big career move, a new apartment, or even professional licensing.
The good news? Kansas law provides a path to a fresh start. At Expunge Kansas Record, we specialize in helping Kansans navigate the legal maze of expungement. Here is everything you need to know about clearing your record in Ellis County.
Why Expungement Matters in Ellis County
Ellis County is a hub for education and industry in Western Kansas. However, many employers in the region (and throughout the state) perform background checks as a standard part of the hiring process.
An expungement legally seals your record. Once granted, the law treats the arrest or conviction as if it never occurred. On most job or housing applications, you can truthfully answer “No” when asked if you have a criminal record for that specific offense.
Am I Eligible for Expungement in Ellis County?
Eligibility depends on the type of charge and how much time has passed since you completed your sentence (including probation and payment of fines).
Arrest Records: If you were arrested but never charged, or if your charges were dismissed, you may be eligible for expungement immediately.
Misdemeanors & Low-Level Felonies: Most of these cases require a 3-year waiting period after the completion of your sentence or diversion.
Serious Felonies & DUIs: More severe offenses typically require a 5-year waiting period, while certain DUI offenses may require up to 10 years.
Ineligible Crimes: Under K.S.A. 21-6614, certain violent crimes and sexual offenses cannot be expunged.
Where Do I File?
In Ellis County, your petition must be filed in the specific court where your case was handled.
Ellis County District Court: Handles felony and misdemeanor cases. Located at 107 W 12th St, Hays, KS 67601. If expungekansasrecord.com handles your expungement we will pay the processing and filing fee for you.
Hays Municipal Court: Handles city ordinance violations and traffic tickets within Hays city limits. Located at 105 W 12th St, Hays, KS 67601. If expungekansasrecord.com handles your expungement we will pay the processing and filing fee for you.
The Expungement Process: Step-by-Step
Navigating the 23rd Judicial District can be daunting if you do it alone. Here is the general workflow:
Eligibility Check: Verify that the required waiting period has passed and all court costs/restitution are paid in full
File with the Court: Submit your paperwork and pay the required filing fee to the Clerk of the Court.
The Waiting Period: The court will notify the prosecutor and law enforcement. This process usually takes 40 to 90 days. When the attorneys at Expunge Kansas Record are involved, they do their best to move things along as quickly as possible.
The Hearing: In many cases, a judge will sign the order without a hearing if there are no objections. If an objection is raised, you may need to appear in court to argue why the expungement is in the "best interest of justice."
Clean Record: Once the judge signs the order, it is sent to the KBI (Kansas Bureau of Investigation) to update your official criminal history.
How Expunge Kansas Record Can Help
Filing for expungement involves precise paperwork and strict deadlines. A single mistake can lead to a denial, forcing you to wait even longer to clear your name.
At Expunge Kansas Record, we take the guesswork out of the process. For a flat fee of $895 (which includes filing fees), we handle everything—from drafting the petition to following up with the court.
Ready to start your new chapter in Hays? Take our free 5-minute eligibility check today and see if you qualify to clear your Ellis County record.
No comments:
Post a Comment