Expungement

If you have a past conviction on your record, it can limit your opportunities in life. Many individuals in Oakland County, Macomb County, and Wayne County, Michigan face barriers to employment, housing, and education due to a criminal record. Fortunately, Michigan law provides options for those seeking to have their record expunged. At Fraiberg & Pernie, we help clients in Rochester Hills, Troy, Farmington Hills, Novi, Birmingham, Bloomfield Township, and West Bloomfield navigate the process of clearing their record and moving forward with their lives.

What Is Expungement?

Expungement is the legal process of sealing a criminal conviction, effectively removing it from public records. Once your record is expunged, most employers, landlords, and the general public will no longer have access to the conviction. This allows individuals to move forward without the stigma of a criminal past. Expungement, however, does not erase the conviction entirely—it may still be accessible to law enforcement or certain government agencies.

Michigan’s Expungement Law

In 2021, Michigan enacted new expungement laws, which significantly broadened the eligibility criteria. The Clean Slate Act allows individuals with certain misdemeanor and felony convictions to apply for expungement after a specific waiting period. This change is helping many people clear their records and improve their chances for a better future. However, not all crimes are eligible for expungement, and the process can be complicated.

The Expungement Process

The expungement process in Michigan involves several steps, and attention to detail is crucial to ensure your petition is successful. These steps include obtaining certified copies of your conviction record, completing the necessary forms, submitting fingerprints, and filing the petition with the court. In some cases, you may be required to attend a hearing where a judge will decide whether to grant the expungement.

Why Legal Guidance Is Important

Seeking legal assistance when pursuing expungement can make a significant difference. At Fraiberg & Pernie, we work with clients throughout Oakland County, Macomb County, and Wayne County, Michigan to guide them through the expungement process. Whether you’re in Rochester Hills, Troy, Farmington Hills, Novi, Birmingham, Bloomfield Township, or West Bloomfield, our team can help you prepare your case and present it effectively to the court.

Taking the steps toward expungement can give you a fresh start, allowing you to pursue new opportunities and move forward without the weight of a criminal record holding you back.