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Family Law Blog

The Expungement Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

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.

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What Types of Crimes Can Be Expunged from Your Record?

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.

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The Role of a Criminal Defense Attorney in Plea Bargaining

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.

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What Are the Factors That Influence Custody Decisions in Child Abuse Cases?

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.

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How Can You Strengthen Your Case for Winning Full Custody of Your Child?

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.

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How Can Evidence Be Challenged in a Criminal Case?

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.

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Can You Be Convicted Without Physical Evidence in a Criminal Case?

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.

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What Are the Differences Between a Felony and a Misdemeanor?

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.

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How Is Child Custody Decided in Cases Involving Domestic Violence or Abuse?

When domestic violence or abuse is involved in a child custody case, Missouri courts take a serious and careful approach. The primary focus is the child's safety and well-being. Judges must assess the severity of the abuse, the risk posed by the abusive parent, and the overall impact on the child's welfare before making any custody decisions.

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What Are the Steps to Get a Criminal Record Expunged in Missouri?

A criminal record can create obstacles when applying for jobs, housing, or educational opportunities. Missouri law allows individuals to seek expungement for eligible offenses, giving them a fresh start. This legal process removes records from public view, helping people move forward without past convictions holding them back.

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