EXPUNGEMENT ATTORNEYS IN MICHIGAN

The State of Michigan has expanded eligibility to set aside a conviction for a variety of convictions that were previously ineligible. If you are unsure whether you qualify for an expungement or would like to discuss options to clear your record, contact our Michigan expungement attorneys for a free consultation to learn more.

We understand the life-altering consequences of having a criminal conviction on your record, and the experienced Michigan expungement attorneys at Garrison Law are here to help. Our dedicated legal team has combined decades of experience helping ordinary people get out from under the weight of a criminal conviction. Utilizing our in-depth knowledge of the criminal and civil justice systems, we’re here to help free you from the past so you can focus on your future.

What is Michigan's Clean Slate Act?

The Clean Slate Act is a new law that went into effect on April 11, 2021. MCL § 780.621. The Act expands eligibility for Michigan residents to expunge criminal convictions and get a fresh start. Recent legislation makes Michigan a national leader in helping residents more easily set aside criminal records and get a “clean slate.” Expungement is automatic for eligible misdemeanors after seven years, and after ten years for non-violent felonies; however, the automatic set-aside provision does not go into effect until 2023. Some convictions will not be automatically removed and require filing a petition for expungement with the Court.

Steps to set aside a conviction in Michigan

01.Determine if your convictions qualify for expungement.
02.Help you get fingerprinted.
03.Obtain certified copies of your convictions from the Court.
04.Prepare and file your application with the Court.
05.Serve your application on the Prosecutor, Attorney General, and Michigan State Police.
06.Work with the Court clerk to schedule a hearing date for your petition.
07.At the hearing, you will be required to share your story and explain why the Judge should grant your request for a set-aside. We will prepare you for Court and represent you at the hearing.
08.Notify the appropriate agencies when your application has been approved to ensure your record is clear.
SCHEDULE A FREE CONSULTATION TO FIND OUT HOW WE CAN HELP WITH YOUR EXPUNGEMENT
(248) 847-1000

COMMITTED TO HELPING OUR CLIENTS SUCCEED

No one should be defined by their past. Our team will give your case the individualized attention it deserves, navigating the legal process so you can focus on moving forward. We will handle every aspect of your expungement – from gathering all necessary records, coordinating submission of your application, and representing you in Court – so you can focus on what matters most. If you’re ready to clear the way for a better future, let us help. Call today.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

AM I ELIGIBLE TO EXPUNGE MY CRIMINAL RECORD?

Michigan’s Clean Slate Act gives hope for a new future to individuals who previously faced barriers to employment, housing, and other opportunities who were held back by the stigma of a criminal conviction. Under the new law, a person convicted of certain misdemeanor and felony offenses in Michigan may apply or have them automatically removed from their public record.  Up to three felony convictions are eligible for expungement. 

HOW MANY CONVICTIONS CAN BE EXPUNGED UNDER MICHIGAN’S CLEAN SLATE ACT?

The number of convictions eligible for expungement depends on whether they are misdemeanors or felonies and the time when they occurred. You cannot ask a judge to set aside any convictions if you have more than three felonies and/or high misdemeanors.  However, there is an exception in the law called the “One Bad Night” rule, which treats multiple convictions that occur within 24 hours as one for purposes of expungement.

ARE ALL CONVICTIONS ELIGIBLE FOR EXPUNGEMENT?

Most misdemeanors are eligible for expungement. Convictions for high misdemeanors are treated as felonies, and convictions for operating while intoxicated or visibly impaired by alcohol or drugs are ineligible for expungement.  Only one felony conviction that is punishable by more than ten years imprisonment may be set aside.  And only two convictions for an assaultive crime may be set aside.  In addition, the following offenses are not eligible to be set aside:

• Felonies punishable by life in prison

• Child abuse

• Crimes committed during the operation of a commercial vehicle

• Criminal sexual conduct (CSC)

• Operating while intoxicated/operating while visibly impaired by drugs and alcohol

• Domestic violence in cases where there is a previous misdemeanor conviction for the offense

• Traffic offenses causing injury or death

• Human trafficking and/or forced labor
HOW LONG TO WAIT TO EXPUNGE A CRIMINAL RECORD?

The waiting period to set aside your conviction depends on how many convictions you have. The time begins from the date of completion of any term of probation, discharge from parole, or release from imprisonment, whichever is latest for the conviction being expunged.

Conviction ClassificationWaiting Period
One felony5 years
More than one felony7 years
One or more serious misdemeanors5 years
One or more non-serious, non-assaultive misdemeanors3 years


 

WHAT HAPPENS IF MY APPLICATION FOR EXPUNGEMENT IS DENIED?

If your application is denied, you must wait three years to file another petition with the convicting Court asking them to set aside your conviction. In some cases, the Court can specify an earlier date for filing a subsequent application, which must be included in the Court’s Order denying your request.


HOW MUCH DOES A MICHIGAN EXPUNGEMENT LAWYER COST?

The cost to hire an expungement lawyer varies depending on the number and classification of convictions, the location of the Court that will be reviewing the petition, and the individual circumstances of each case.  If you are interested in clearing your criminal record, contact Garrison Law to speak with an experienced attorney. We’ve helped hundreds of people rebuild their lives after suffering the consequences of a criminal conviction. 

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1523 N. Main St.
Royal Oak, MI 48067
(248) 847-1000

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