Expungement Overview

Created by FindLaw's team of legal writers and editors | Last reviewed June 20, 2016

Expungement can remove a charge from an individual's record, which can have a profound effect on that person's life. Even if a person is eligible for expungement, however, it isn't a sure thing. This section provides basic information on expungement, including when a person is eligible to have a charge removed from their record and when expungement is not available. You can also start by downloading FindLaw's Guide to Expungement [pdf].

Learn About Expungement

Expungement Basics

A brief introduction to expungement (called "expunction" in some jurisdictions), a process through which an individual may have an arrest or criminal conviction record sealed from public view.
Expungement is Not Always an Option

While the rules and limitations for expungement tend to vary from one state to the next, this article lists the various barriers to expungement and when it may not be an option.

Expungement Eligibility

A brief list of factors considered before a court will grant an expungement request, including the nature of the crime itself, the amount of time that has passed, and more.
The Expungement Process

What you should know about the expungement process in general, including links to detailed expungement procedures in the states of California, Minnesota, and Missouri.