Pennsylvania Criminal Record Expungements – Bucks County, PA
A criminal record can follow you long after your case is over, often hurting your chances of getting a job, housing, or a professional license. The good news? You may be eligible for an expungement under Pennsylvania law.
At Saile & Saile LLP, Attorney Caterina Saile helps clients in Bucks County and surrounding areas navigate the expungement process with clarity and confidence. Whether you completed the ARD program, resolved a summary offense, or were never convicted, we’ll guide you toward a cleaner record.
What Is an Expungement in Pennsylvania?
An expungement is a legal process that removes certain criminal charges from your public record. Once your record is expunged, the charges are erased from state databases and can no longer be accessed by employers, landlords, or the general public. However, expungement is not available for all charges. That’s why it’s critical to speak with an experienced attorney such as Attorney Caterina Saile to understand your options.
1. Automatic Expungement After Completing ARD (Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition)
If you were admitted into the Bucks County ARD program for a first-time, non-violent offense—such as DUI, retail theft, or underage drinking—you may be eligible for automatic expungement upon successful completion of the ARD program.
ARD completion typically includes:
- Probation (no jail)
- Community service
- Alcohol or drug education and possibly treatment
- No new arrests
2. Expungement of Summary Offenses in Pennsylvania
Summary offenses—like disorderly conduct, public intoxication, or underage drinking—are the lowest-level criminal charges in PA, but they still show up on background checks.
You may qualify for a summary offense expungement if:
- You were found not guilty, or
- You were convicted of a summary offense and have been free of arrest or prosecution for 5 years following the conviction.
Summary Expungement Process in Bucks County
- Record Review & Eligibility Check. Attorney Saile will review your criminal history to confirm your eligibility for expungement.
- Petition Filing. A Petition for Expungement is filed in the Bucks County Court of Common Pleas and served on the District Attorney’s Office.
- District Attorney Review. The DA may approve the petition or request a hearing to contest it.
- Court Decision. If the petition is approved, the court issues an order directing all relevant agencies (including the PA State Police) to remove the record from public databases.
3. Why Saile & Saile LLP Does Not Handle Felony or Misdemeanor Expungements
Under current Pennsylvania law, felony and misdemeanor convictions are generally not eligible for expungement unless:
- You are over 70 years old and arrest-free for 10+ years, or
- The person is deceased for 3 years, or
- The charges were dismissed, withdrawn, or resulted in not guilty verdicts
- For more information contact Pennsylvania Board of Pardons https://www.pa.gov/agencies/bop.html
Because these types of expungements are extremely limited—and often require additional legal processes like pardons—Saile & Saile LLP focuses exclusively on expunging summary offense records.
Why Choose Saile & Saile LLP for Your Expungement?
-
Focused Criminal Record Relief – We specialize in expunging Summary offenses quickly and correctly.
-
Local Expertise – We’re based in Bucks County and work regularly with the courts and District Attorney’s Office.
-
Clear Advice – Attorney Saile will tell you up front whether expungement is possible—and won’t waste your time or money.
-
Responsive Communication – We keep you informed at every step, and we’re always a phone call away.
If you have an old summary offense on your record, it’s time to take action. Expungement can open doors to better jobs, school opportunities, housing, and peace of mind. Call Saile & Saile LLP now at 215-860-5800.
