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Internet Search Advances Stir Up Old Criminal Records

For those arrested and accused of crimes, expungement is often the first thing on their mind. A simple wiping of the slate and the past is separated from the future, making it easier to obtain jobs, find housing, and preserve close relationships. Unfortunately, the internet is quickly turning into a doubled-edged sword.

According to a recent article by The Wall Street Journal, getting a criminal record is much easier than erasing one now thanks to the internet. Crimes that occurred decades ago are now being unearthed through quick Google searches and online databases. Individuals who never dreamed that their arrest or conviction would come back to haunt them are now facing the reality of the 21st century and its impact on criminal records. What was good advice, and a favorable resolution of your case in the past, may no longer hold true now. The power of the internet to easily pull up criminal records previously buried in old case files has changed everything.

As much as society hates to admit it, criminal statutes are still written up with the early 20th century in mind. Many laws fail to take the internet into account and people with criminal records are hurting because of it. While legislators in some states are working to change these unintended consequences, it could take years for laws to change if at all.

Not All States Are on the Same Page

Expungement laws differ greatly from state to state. What should be a standard procedure is referred to in many states as annulment, record sealing, or nothing at all. At least four states, including Alaska, Arizona, Maine, and Nebraska, give citizens no way to clear criminal records.

Officials in these states believe that doing so would only perpetuate crime and foolishly protect individuals who acted unlawfully in the past. The Wall Street Journal discovered that nearly 20 million new criminal records were added in a mere four year period, all of which can plague those arrested for a lifetime.

Is there a solution to this problem?

Most shockingly, those falsely convicted can suffer too, and therein lies the irony. One woman was mistakenly taken for another and arrested for crimes that she never committed. After spending time in jail and being forced to scrape together cash just to be released, she later lost her job, all because of a false arrest.

Although this woman’s record was cleared in one state, it remained visible in others. The repercussions of being falsely arrested linger online and victims are left at a loss with how to deal with this very real problem.

The most viable solution is to retain an attorney who knows what he’s doing and understands how to deal with and understand old criminal records. If you committed a crime and assumed that you’d be able to move forward based on the judicial resolution of your case, the internet may prove you very wrong.

As an expunction attorney in San Antonio, Tylden Shaeffer is aware of the real consequences of an arrest, whether it be from a mistaken charge or not. The past 25 years have given Attorney Shaeffer a unique knowledge and ability to think outside the box . This perspective is crucial when fighting for the justice you deserve.

It has never been more critical to retain an experienced attorney who is willing to stand up for your rights. Call Tylden Shaeffer, Attorney at Law, P.C. today for personal representation as you pursue a life untainted by a criminal record.

Testimonials
  • "Mr Shaeffer was up front from the beginning, and I respected that. He told me they have a solid case against me. He is a very out of the box thinker, and very organized. He told me the sad reality of" - Nicoli

  • "I found Mr. Shaeffer to be very responsive, effective, and strategic. There was never any doubt in my mind that he had my best interest at the forefront of his efforts in handling my case." - Ron

  • "When you have been wrongfully accused of having an affair with a student, you must acquire legal counsel before you even speak to the police, even if you are the person who reports the rumors. Tylden Schaeffer advised me to not have a second interview with the police department and found time in his schedule to meet with me that day. After the meeting, I had a path to move forward on and that included a well written statement that Mr. Schaeffer crafted. After submitting this in lieu of a second interview with the police, there were no more problems with the school district or police department. Mr. Schaeffer did a superb job and had me resting more easily following our meetings. I would highly recommend Mr. Schaeffer to anyone in need of a Criminal Defense Attorney." - Anonymous

  • "Tylden has been nothing but excellent while representing me. He’s been very upfront, honest, and cooperative with not only myself, but with my family as well. I don’t just feel like a number, he treats you like if you’re his only client. I’d definitely recommend him to anybody I know if they are in need of legal help. 5 out of 5 stars. I highly recommend Tylden Shaeffer!" - Joel

  • "Mr Shaeffer was up front from the beginning, and I respected that. He told me they have a solid case against me. He is a very out of the box thinker, and very organized. He told me the sad reality of what could potentially be the outcome of my case, and it was dim. However he asked me what i wanted and was creative enough to deliver at an extremely affordable price. He has the knowledge to defend you, and the experience to win. I’m very happy with how he handled my case. His office is also only blocks away from the court house and he is always prompt. I don’t usually write reviews, but Mr. Tylden Shaeffer deserves to be recognized." - Nicoli

  • "When I got charged with my DWI I already expected to go through a long, painful process from the beginning. But, Mr. Shaeffer and his staff made my whole experience quick and easy with their great communication and professionalism. He was always straight forward and I could tell he had my best interest in mind. He made sure I didn’t get charged with “extreme intoxication”, while also reducing my fines and the length of my probation. I highly recommend him to anyone!" - Alex

  • "Mr. Shaeffer is a great attorney , very professional, very nice and is willing to work with you and help u threw any situation u may have or need help with . I recommend Mr. Shaeffer to anyone who needs help with any kind of legal issues or problems. Anyone who has asked me about an attorney i most definitely tell them Mr. Shaeffer and give them his info. Thank you for all your help and everything u have done for me and my family. You are a awesome attorney! Highly Recommend" - Anonymous

  • "Tylden is a fantastic attorney. He thoroughly prepared for my case and did an amazing job of relating to the judge and jury. I highly recommend Tylden. Would recommend to anyone!" - Skyler

  • "Tylden got my felony reduced to a misdemeanor. He saved my life. I didn’t have to pester him for information and updates about my case and his staff is well informed and helpful. He personally attended each and every one of my hearings and was just as concerned about restoring my reputation as I was. He recently got a motion for non-disclosure filed and approved by the judge so I will never have to admit this mistake ever happened. I would recommend Tylden to anyone! He is a highly intelligent and competent attorney. The Best!" - Anonymous

  • "I was represented by Mr. Shaeffer years ago (2004). He would travel from San Antonio all the way to Del Rio to represent me. My father and I were accused of wrong doing by federal agents and we had done nothing. We, my father and I were on trial simultaneously. We had hired an attorney and found out later he was friends with the prosecutor and wanted us to accept a plea bargain. “We did nothing wrong”, I cried to him. He insisted that we accept due to it being impossible to beat the Government. My father and I were close to giving up when we met Mr. Shaeffer. Mr. Shaeffer believed in us and fought for us. Because of him, I never saw prison walls nor was I ever away from my family. It was one of the most difficult times in my life, but thankfully we met a Godsend attorney and justice prevailed." - Anonymous

Case Results
Intoxication Manslaughter – Reduced Sentence

While client was already on probation for DWI when arrested for Intoxication Manslaughter. Client pleaded guilty to the jury and jury awarded probation where State sought prison term from the jury.

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