Murphy Signs Bill to Simplify New Jersey's Expungement Process

New Law Aims to Provide Easier Access and Fairer Criteria for Expungement in NJ.

In a move to reform New Jersey's criminal justice system, Governor Phil Murphy has signed A5826/S4211, a bill designed to make the expungement process more accessible and less complicated. This new law is seen as a further step in the Murphy Administration’s efforts to create a more equitable legal system.

Governor Murphy emphasized the importance of the legislation in providing second chances, stating, “For far too long our state’s expungement laws have been overly complex, outdated, and unable to equitably serve New Jerseyans in search of new beginnings.”

The new law introduces several key changes to the state's expungement procedures:

Flexibility in Filing Location: Individuals can now apply for expungement in the county where they reside or in any county where they have a conviction. Previously, applications had to be filed in the county of the individual's most recent conviction.
Expansion of Exceptions: The law extends existing exceptions to general expungement requirements, which allows a judge to issue an expungement order in certain cases even if the applicant has not satisfied an applicable waiting period or a court-ordered financial assessment. These exceptions now apply to Clean Slate expungements as well.
Clean Slate Expungement Amendment: The legislation amends the clean slate expungement provisions to permit the expungement of more than one municipal court violation.

Senator Brian Stack, Chair of the Senate Judiciary Committee, noted that the updated expungement process will ease re-entry for those who have served their time, focusing on minor offenses that pose less risk to public safety.

Senator Shirley Turner highlighted the challenges criminal records pose in areas like housing and employment, stressing the importance of a more accessible expungement process in aiding individuals to successfully reintegrate into society.

Assembly members Annette Quijano, Verlina Reynolds-Jackson, and Shavonda Sumter also voiced their support for the bill. They underscored the increased agency and fairness the new law brings, particularly for those who have faced financial barriers in the past, and the enhanced opportunities in employment and other critical areas of life that an expunged record can provide.

This legislation represents a significant shift towards a more inclusive and fair approach in New Jersey's justice system, potentially impacting numerous residents seeking to move past their criminal records and rebuild their lives.