Family Law Blog

Aug. 12, 2025

Expunging a criminal record can open the door to better opportunities and offer peace of mind for those who have moved on from past mistakes. The process allows individuals to seal or erase certain offenses from their official criminal history, making it easier to rebuild a life without the shadow of a past conviction.

Aug. 5, 2025

Expungement can offer a fresh start by sealing or erasing criminal records, but not every conviction or arrest qualifies. Many people assume they can wipe the slate clean, only to find out later that the law doesn’t support their request. Knowing when expungement isn’t available is key to understanding your legal options.

June 26, 2025

Completing expungement requires adherence to specific rules and deadlines. You’ll need to meet all court-ordered conditions—such as paying fines or finishing probation—before filing. Once your conviction is sealed, it’s as though it never occurred for most practical purposes.

June 19, 2025

Missouri law provides a path to expungement for certain crimes, which means a conviction no longer appears on a background check. Understanding what qualifies is the first step toward working with a criminal defense lawyer to get results. The Hardin Law Firm LLC is based in Missouri and focuses on criminal defense for clients seeking to clear past convictions.

June 4, 2025

Custody decisions in child abuse cases represent some of the most complicated and sensitive determinations in the Missouri legal system. The primary goal in such cases is to protect the welfare of the child while ensuring that justice is served.

June 4, 2025

In the American criminal justice system, plea bargaining plays a pivotal role in the resolution of criminal cases. Rather than proceeding to trial, the vast majority of criminal cases are resolved through plea agreements.

April 17, 2025

In Missouri’s criminal justice system, evidence is the cornerstone of any prosecution or defense. It shapes the narrative, influences judicial decisions, and ultimately determines whether a defendant is convicted or acquitted. However, not all evidence presented in court is admissible, reliable, or legally obtained. Challenging evidence is a critical strategy for a defense attorney.

April 17, 2025

Winning full child custody in Missouri is a challenging but achievable goal if you approach the process strategically, armed with a clear understanding of the state’s laws. To strengthen your case for full custody, you must build a compelling argument that showcases your ability to meet the child’s needs and, if necessary, highlights why the other parent is less suitable.

April 2, 2025

If you've been charged with a crime, you may wonder whether it's possible to be convicted without physical evidence. As a criminal defense attorney at The Hardin Law Firm in St. Louis, Missouri, I know how unsettling this question can be. However, it's important to know that physical evidence isn't always necessary for a conviction.

April 2, 2025

Felonies are serious offenses with severe penalties, including hefty prison sentences, fines, and other long-term consequences. Misdemeanors, while less severe, are still significant crimes and can lead to jail time, substantial fines, or probation.