A criminal record can cast a long shadow over your life—even after you’ve served your sentence. The lingering effects can make it harder to find employment, pursue education, secure housing, or simply move forward. A criminal record can also affect financial prospects and overall freedom for years. Fortunately, Michigan’s expungement laws allow many people the chance to clear past convictions and truly start fresh. However, it’s important to note that a nonpublic record of the expunged conviction still exists and can be accessed by law enforcement and courts.
So, how do you expunge a criminal record in Michigan?
You may be eligible to petition the court for expungement after a 3–5 year waiting period, depending on the offense. An attorney can help file a motion to set aside the conviction and guide you through the legal process. A person must wait at least five years after sentencing or completion of probation before applying for expungement. If your crime involved a victim, that victim will likely be notified that you are trying to have the conviction removed.
At D.G. Moore Law, we help individuals across West Michigan reclaim their freedom through record expungement. With decades of criminal defense experience and a deep understanding of Michigan expungement law, we’ll fight to help you leave your past where it belongs—behind you. Potential employers are increasingly requesting information about any convictions someone has on their record, making expungement a critical step for many.
Clear Your Record With a Grand Rapids Expungement Lawyer
If you’re living with a criminal record in Kent County or the surrounding areas, our team is here to help. We know how much of a burden a conviction can be—long after your case is closed.
As a trusted Grand Rapids criminal defense firm, we understand Michigan’s Clean Slate laws and have helped many clients successfully petition for expungement. Whether your conviction is from years ago or more recent, we’ll review your record, explain your options, and fight to clear your name. A person seeking to expunge their record must present evidence showing they have learned from their mistakes and that setting aside the conviction is in the public welfare.
How to Expunge a Criminal Record in Grand Rapids, Michigan
Expungement, also known as a “motion to set aside conviction,” is a legal process that removes certain criminal convictions from your public record. This allows you to move forward in life without being haunted by past mistakes every time you apply for a job, rental, or loan. Removing a criminal record allows you to truthfully respond that you have no prior criminal convictions when filling out background checks.
Key Steps to File for Expungement in Michigan:
- Wait the required period after your conviction or release (see details below).
- Obtain a copy of your criminal record and fingerprints.
- Complete and file the Application to Set Aside Conviction with the court.
- Notify the prosecutor and state police with a copy of the application. The Michigan State Police and Prosecuting Attorney’s Office are notified of the expungement motion.
- Attend your expungement hearing where the judge will decide whether to grant your request.
Only by working with an experienced record expungement attorney can you ensure that these steps are handled correctly and that you’re maximizing your chances of success. The expungement process can be time-consuming and requires careful attention to numerous legal requirements. It also involves presenting a case at a hearing.
Offenses Eligible for Expungement in Michigan
Michigan’s Clean Slate legislation significantly expanded who qualifies for record expungement. However, not all offenses are eligible. Certain crimes such as criminal sexual conduct offenses and certain traffic offenses are not eligible for expungement. A felony for which the maximum punishment is life in prison cannot be expunged under Michigan law.
Expungement-Eligible Offenses:
- Up to 1 felony and 2 misdemeanors
- Up to 3 misdemeanors (if no felonies are present)
- Certain non-violent felonies
- Marijuana-related convictions that would not be crimes under current law
Offenses That Cannot Be Expunged:
- Criminal Sexual Conduct (CSC) in the 1st, 2nd, or 3rd degree
- Felonies with potential life sentences
- Traffic offenses, including OWI/DUI
- Felony domestic violence (if there’s more than one conviction)
It’s critical to review your specific record with a record expungement attorney to determine eligibility.
How Long Do You Have to Wait to Expunge a Conviction?
Michigan’s Clean Slate laws include strict waiting periods before you can file for expungement, and the timeline depends on the type and number of offenses on your record. This waiting period begins only after you’ve completed all sentencing terms—such as jail time, probation, and fines. Knowing how long you need to wait is the first step toward preparing your expungement petition. The burden of proof is on the applicant to show justification for expungement.
| Conviction Type | Waiting Period |
|---|---|
| 1 Felony | 7 years from sentence completion |
| 1–2 Misdemeanors | 3 years from sentence completion |
| Multiple Felonies or Misdemeanors | 7 years if all are eligible |
| Marijuana Possession (now legal) | No waiting period required |
You must have completed all terms of sentencing—including fines, probation, or jail time—before the clock starts on the waiting period.
Why Expungement Matters
A criminal record can limit your ability to:
- Get hired or pass background checks
- Apply for housing or rental applications
- Qualify for federal student aid or scholarships
- Obtain professional licenses or certifications
- Adopt a child or volunteer with youth organizations
Even if the offense was minor, the consequences can last a lifetime—unless you take legal steps to set it aside.
Our Approach to Expungement at D.G. Moore Law
When you work with D.G. Moore, you get more than just a paperwork filer—you get a legal advocate dedicated to helping you clear your name and restore your reputation.
Here’s what you can expect:
- A thorough review of your criminal record
- Step-by-step guidance through the expungement process
- Filing and serving all required documentation
- Aggressive representation at your expungement hearing
- Continued support for appeals or denials if necessary
We treat every case with the care and attention it deserves—because to us, you’re more than just a case number.
Who Should Consider Record Expungement?
Anyone with eligible past convictions who has completed their sentence and stayed out of trouble for the required waiting period should consider record expungement to improve employment, housing, and personal opportunities. Additionally, the existence of a criminal record can bar individuals from enlistment in the military.
If you meet the legal criteria under Michigan’s Clean Slate Act, filing for expungement could be a life-changing step toward a clean slate.
You should speak to a record expungement attorney in Grand Rapids if:
- You’ve stayed out of legal trouble since your last conviction
- You want to improve your employment or housing options
- You’re trying to regain your professional reputation
- You qualify under the new Clean Slate Act
If you’re unsure about eligibility, we offer free consultations to evaluate your case and help you understand your options.
Contact a Grand Rapids Record Expungement Attorney Today
You’ve done your time. You’ve stayed out of trouble. You’ve moved on—but your record hasn’t.
Let D.G. Moore Law help you take the final step toward a clean slate. We offer free consultations and flat-fee expungement services for clients throughout Grand Rapids and West Michigan.
Call 269-808-8007 today or contact us online to find out if you’re eligible and how we can help.
Resources:
- Michigan Courts – Expungement Forms and Instructions
- Clean Slate Michigan FAQ
- Kent County Court Expungement Services
FAQs About Record Expungement Attorney
What convictions cannot be expunged in Michigan?
You cannot expunge CSC 1st–3rd degree, traffic offenses, or any felony with a possible life sentence. Juvenile offenders may apply to have their criminal adjudications expunged if they do not have more than three juvenile offenses on their record.
How much does expungement cost in Michigan?
Court filing fees are generally $50, but attorney fees vary. At D.G. Moore Law, we offer flat-rate expungement packages with no hidden fees. The application for expungement must contain specific information and must be signed under oath.
Can I expunge more than one conviction?
Yes. Michigan law now allows up to 1 felony and 2 misdemeanors or up to 3 misdemeanors if no felonies are on your record.
How long does the expungement process take?
It usually takes 3 to 9 months from the time of filing to your hearing and decision.
Do I need a lawyer to expunge my record?
While you can file on your own, working with an attorney dramatically increases your chance of success, especially in complicated cases. If the court denies the expungement request, the applicant must wait 3 years before submitting another petition for the same conviction.
