Could an arrest or conviction be cleared?

Expungement, sealing and set-aside are different remedies with different tests, and the test is set by state law. This screen walks the factors that most statutes rely on so you can see which apply to you before you read the statute.

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How this works

The three terms are not interchangeable. Expungement generally removes the record entirely. Sealing hides it from most background checks while it continues to exist for limited purposes. Set-aside vacates a conviction, often restoring civil rights, without always removing the record.

Eligibility usually turns on the same handful of questions: was there a conviction at all, was the offence violent or otherwise excluded, how long ago did the case end, and were all terms of the sentence completed.

This screen applies those factors generally. It does not know your state's statute, and the exact wording of the offence matters more than its label.

Where the defaults come from

Every rate in this tool is editable. The starting values are the most common figures we could source, and you should replace them with the actual figures that apply to your jurisdiction.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between expungement and sealing?

Expungement generally removes the record; sealing hides it from most checks while keeping it available for limited purposes such as later sentencing. States define both differently, so the practical effect depends on where you are.

Are arrests without a conviction easier to clear?

Usually, yes. An arrest that did not lead to a conviction is the strongest category in most states, though some require a formal finding such as a dismissal or nolle prosequi before an application will be accepted.

How long do I have to wait?

Waiting periods are set by statute and commonly run from several years to a decade depending on the offence. Some states also require all fines, fees and supervision to be complete before the clock starts.

Can I clear a federal conviction?

Federal expungement is very limited and generally available only in narrow circumstances. Federal law does not provide the broad state-style remedies most people mean by expungement.

Do I need a lawyer to apply?

Many states allow you to file yourself and publish forms for that purpose. Some offences, and most contested applications, are easier with counsel. Either way, check your state's current process before filing.

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