Alpharetta Record Restriction Lawyer
Serving Clients in Cumming, Sandy Springs, Johns Creek, Fulton County & Forsyth County
If you have ever been arrested or charged with a crime, you may be concerned that your record will affect your future. Even if you were not prosecuted or convicted, a criminal record could have an impact on your job, relationships, and reputation. The good news is that Georgia allows for record restrictions. If eligible, you can keep your criminal record from public scrutiny, giving yourself a chance at a fresh start. Brian Hansford Law can help you protect your reputation.
Ask our Alpharetta criminal defense attorney to guide you through the record restriction process. Call us today at (678) 647-6444 or contact us online.
How Record Restriction Works
Record restriction (previously called expungement) means that aspects of your criminal history become unavailable to the public and can only be accessed by law enforcement. After your record is restricted, a potential employer would not be able to view your criminal history. However, if you are later charged with a different crime, officers of the law may review your full record.
Some records are eligible for restriction, and some are not. Most felony convictions are not eligible, but an arrest for a felony charge that was not referred for prosecution may be.
Record restriction for eligible records happens automatically if you were arrested after July 1, 2013:
- Two years after a misdemeanor
- Four years after most felonies
- Seven years after a violent crime or sex offenses
Some drug charges may be restricted after five years if you complete a drug court program. For arrests before July 1, 2013, you must apply for record restriction.
How We Can Help
Depending on your record, your case’s final disposition, and various other factors, record restriction can be complicated. Our Alpharetta criminal defense attorney understands the impact your record has on your life. We can advise you of your options, walk you through the process, and even file petitions for restriction for you.
Ready to start clearing your name? Don’t wait. Ask Brian Hansford Law to handle your record restriction.
Contact our offices at (678) 647-6444 and speak to an experienced criminal defense attorney today.
You deserve an advocate who will fight aggressively to protect your rights. Attorney Brian Hansford has decades of experience working in the criminal justice system. We understand that being accused of a crime does not make you a criminal. We are prepared to do everything possible to raise doubts about allegations made by the prosecution. Get an aggressive advocate to protect your future. Call now and get started.
What Sets Us Apart
4 Reasons that Make Us the Right Choice
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First Class RepresentationAt Brian Hansford Law, you get a defense team that will give you their undivided attention to your case. We take the time to understand your situation and meticulously prepare your case in an effort to achieve the best possible result.
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Former ProsecutorHaving been a former prosecutor, Brian Hansford understands both sides of the criminal justice system. This experience helps him design an effective defense for his clients.
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Fierce Trial AttorneyMany attorneys are afraid to go to trial - NOT US! We aggressively prepare every case as if it will go to trial.
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25 Years of ExperienceThere's no substitution for experience. With 25 years of practicing law, our team has handled all kinds of charges from misdemeanors to some of the most complex and serious crimes.
Client Reviews
Don't Take Our Word For It
At Brian Hansford Law, your satisfaction is our priority! See for yourself what our clients have to say about working with us.
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My case was a tough and stressful one that Mr. Hansford completely guided me through with the greatest of ease handling everything for me so I could focus on my everyday life instead of stressing nonstop. He had charges dropped for me and the one I did end up getting stuck with, he got me the bare minimum on. I am forever grateful to this attorney and would hire him again in a split second!!! He was amazing!!!
- Jessica -
Brian was very knowledgeable in his area of expertise. He was professional and maintained a line of communication throughout my case. I appreciated his attitude and approach. I would recommend him to anyone who needs an attorney that will work hard for your best interest. Thanks so much!- Jason
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Brian Hansford is an extraordinary criminal defense attorney. He represented me in the most professional manner. He was respectful and considerate of my feelings during a difficult situation. Brian addressed my concerns, explained everything to me, and provided the appropriate legal direction. Brian was available to me 24/7 and responded to my text messages immediately. He put my mind at ease with his calm demeanor and knowledge of the judicial system. I completely trusted Brian, and he got my charges reduced. I am FOREVER GRATEFUL to Brian.
Also, I would like to comment on Brian's assistant, Erin Bell. Erin always answered my calls and responded to my emails immediately and explained what was going on with my case. I am extremely thankful for all her support and compassion towards me.
I highly recommend Brian to anyone that is seeking the BEST criminal defense attorney. He is honest and will keep your best interest at the forefront.
- Lynette -
Brian Hansford will go above and beyond like no other in any matter regarding navigation of the Legal system. He is relentless in his pursuit to help on any level. NO OTHER ATTORNEY can accomplish what Brian can do when it comes to being a professional and a positive influence in the courtroom. I have personally witnessed the respect that everyone gives him when he walks into court. Judges, Clerks, DA's, other Attorneys respect him like no other because he is a man of Character and Integrity, and trust this message when you read it, it matters! If you are on AVVO searching for legal help, stop reading ratings and call and hire Brian right now. If ratings could go to a 10, He would be an 11.
- Side note, his assistant Erin is a "one of a kind" herself. You will always get a prompt response and she as well has the utmost respect by any and all officials that you may encounter. First Class all the way around and you always feel better after talking to her.
10 Stars for Brian and Erin- back afloat.
- Previous Client -
Brian and team were reassuring and certainly prepared to take my case! They were on top of my case from day one and followed through when some court-related documentation were not processed correctly. I would like to especially thank his paralegal Erin who was instrumental in keeping me informed and updating Brian when needed. Brian is honest and has years of experience with the Georgia court system. When I started this process he was just a name on a list at the end of this journey he will always be someone that I will always trust and provide a reference when needed.- Previous Client
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Mr. Brian Hansford was hired to represent my 20-year-old son with a felony drug charge and misdemeanor charges of shoplifting and underage possession of alcohol. This particular case was more difficult due to the fact my son was having emotional issues that led him to act out in anger that was getting him in trouble with our family and law enforcement. Our family was becoming a battle zone, with no end in sight. Mr. Hansford’s approach was to help the whole family through a troubling time from a legal stand point as well as an emotional one. Brian first directed us to counselors that helped us understand the deeper issues that were triggering my son to lash out. That process alone gave the whole family direction and hope again for the future. We could see immediate results in my son’s behavior. In addition, Mr. Hansford negotiated sentences that were directed more at rehabilitating my son and not ruining his future. Mr. Hansford is a valuable asset to have on your side. I will continue to recommend him to anyone needing a good knowledgeable lawyer and particularly to families that are also struggling with teenagers in the home.
- Doug -
I wanted to thank Mr. Hansford and his legal team for their professional help with my very major criminal case. He was on point from the very beginning and kept me and my family in the loop. Very experienced and firm attorney. I was never expecting the deal he got me from DA's office. He kept me out of jail and kept my record clean. Thank you, Mr, Hansford for changing my life around. I found an Angel in my life. He brought comfort and happiness back into our lives and into our heart. Whenever I called his office I always get answered. God bless you and thank you million times.- Previous Client
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I sought Brian's help for a DUI charge. Even though I was a first offender with no prior arrests, I faced some serious charges due to the circumstances of my offense. Brian counseled me on the steps to take before my court appearance in order to make my case as strong as possible. He was also able to get my most serious charge dismissed, which enabled me to obtain a limited driving permit for work, child's transportation to school, etc. Brian's office also provided information that allowed me to complete much of my sentence before my plea, including DUI school, substance abuse assessment, and all of my community service. The sentence resulting from my plea agreement was the best I could have hoped for, given the circumstances. Brian and his assistant Erin Bell kept me updated throughout the progress of my case and responded quickly to all of my questions. I always felt like I knew exactly where my case stood, and what to expect next. Since my arrest, I have spoken with others charged with DUI who have been amazed by the assistance I received from my attorney. Many told me that they had trouble contacting their attorneys, or scheduling appointments, and some received harsher sentences. I feel extremely fortunate to have had Brian and Erin on my side throughout this process. Brian's services may be more expensive than that of some others, but he is definitely worth it. I greatly appreciate his help during this difficult time.- Previous Client