OT: Criminal Record Expunging, Yeah, seems I can't get a good job with one... Options

[Brando]

So, way back in the day (which happened to be a wednesday, did you know that?) I got me a misdemeanor conviction of something petty and stupid. Minimum penalty (slap on the wrist), minimum fines, etc. Served my time and my dime long ago, but I'm still paying for it today.

How so?

Any decent job I'm attempting to take does a background check (yeah, that's an hourly job not a salary job). After the State criminal record check I get lots of nicely-worded letters telling me they'd like to hire me but can't.

Now, I need to know if there is a possibility that I can get this thing expunged. It happened right after I turned 18 in highschool (5 years ago). Is there an affordable and non time-consuming way to get this wiped clean and clear? I most certaintly can't afford a lawyer; unless there's willing to work for beer. Is this even possible? Am I on crack for thinking anyone could do this for super-cheap or free?

Unfortunately with this still hanging over my head, I'm (IMG:style_emoticons/default/owned.gif) in the job market. I need to move forward in life, and this petty issue is holding me back.

I thank you for any input you can offer. (IMG:style_emoticons/default/smile.gif)