Clear Criminal Record provides a structured, professional service designed to guide applicants through each stage of the expungement process. Our approach is built on accuracy, compliance with the law, and clear communication at every step.Below is an overview of our process from start to finish:
1 - Free Initial Enquiry
The process begins when a person reaches out to us for information about expungement. At this stage, we gather some basic details to understand the enquiry and explain how the process works. There is no cost or obligation associated with this initial step.
2 - Obtaining the Criminal Record
Before any eligibility assessment can take place, a copy of the criminal record is required. This is a legal necessity – without the actual criminal record document, no accurate evaluation can be conducted. We provide clear guidance on how to obtain this record, whether through the HURU fingerprint capture network at PostNet and Jetline stores, a local SAPS police station, or from abroad via the SAPS Criminal Record Centre.
3 - Professional Eligibility Evaluation
Once we have received the criminal record, our team conducts a detailed legal evaluation. This assessment examines the specific offence(s), the sentence imposed, whether the mandatory waiting period has been fulfilled, and whether any disqualifying factors exist. We provide a clear, written report explaining our findings.
4 - Preparation of the Application
For matters that qualify, we prepare the formal expungement application. This includes compiling all required documentation, drafting the legal motivation, and ensuring that the application complies fully with the requirements set by the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development.
5 - Submission to the Relevant Authority
The completed application is submitted to the appropriate government department for processing. We handle all correspondence with the authorities and follow up on the progress of the application to ensure it moves through the system efficiently.
6 - Monotoring and Updates
Expungement applications are processed by government departments, which means timeframes can vary. Throughout this period, we monitor the status of the application and keep the applicant informed of any developments, requests for additional information, or progress updates.
7 - Confirmation and Finalisation
Once the expungement has been approved, the criminal record is officially removed from the SAPS national database. We confirm the outcome with the applicant and provide documentation of the successful expungement. After finalisation, the individual is no longer required to disclose the previous conviction.
