Criminal Record Expungment

A criminal expungement is the process of petitioning the judge to seal your criminal record. When a record is sealed it will not show up on a search performed at the county courthouse. Your record is not destroyed, rather, it is sealed from public viewing at the courthouse.

Your record will typically included everything that has occurred within the legal system, such as, arrest and release, charges, charges that have been dismissed, convictions and sentences, and even trial acquittals. These records are public records. This means that anyone can go to the courthouse and access your records simply by knowing your name.

Expungements are difficult to win and never given on serious violent felonies or enhanceable offenses (like DWI). You have a good chance of expunging your record if your case was resolve in your favor. For example, you received a continuance for dismissal, successfully completed a diversion program, never had a conviction, or won you case at trial.

An expungement is never guaranteed, however, if you win one it will be well worth your effort.

Frequently Asked Questions regarding expungements:

How long does an expungement take?

You must wait at least 60 days after your documents are filed before you are granted a hearing. If the expungement is granted it will be another 60 days before the court records are sealed

Am I guaranteed an expungement?

No. Serious crimes like murder are never expunged and enhanceable crimes, such as DWI, are not expunged.

Are all criminal records public?

Typically, all adult criminal records are public and include criminal charges, conviction, dismissal, sentence, and conditions of probation.