Criminal Record Expungement Law in Mount Clemens, MI. Also serving the Macomb County MI area

Southeast Michigan Expungement Lawyer, Helping You Clear Your Criminal Record In Michigan.

Clear Your Criminal Record in Michigan: Expungement Under the Clean Slate Law

A criminal record can significantly impact your life, creating barriers to employment, housing, financial opportunities, and more. Whether your conviction is for a misdemeanor, felony, or another offense, it can be publicly accessible to employers, landlords, and even schools. Fortunately, Michigan’s Clean Slate laws have made it easier for many individuals to clear their criminal records through the expungement process. This gives you the chance to start fresh, with fewer obstacles in your path to success.

Michigan's Expungement Process: Automatic vs. Application-Based Expungement

Michigan law provides two key methods for clearing criminal records:


  1. Automatic Expungement in Michigan
    Starting in April 2023, Michigan’s Clean Slate laws began allowing for automatic expungement of certain convictions. If you meet eligibility requirements, certain convictions will be automatically removed from public records after a designated waiting period. This process applies to a range of offenses and can provide a quick, streamlined way to expunge your record without the need to file an application.
  2. Application-Based Expungement in Michigan
    For other offenses, you must apply to have your conviction set aside. This process allows individuals with qualifying criminal records to submit an application, seeking the removal of certain convictions. It’s important to understand that some convictions, such as those related to serious driving offenses or those punishable by life imprisonment, may not qualify for expungement.


In both cases, the eligibility and rules differ based on the nature of the conviction, your criminal history, and the specific time elapsed since your sentence or completion of incarceration.

Benefits of Expungement in Michigan: Clear Your Criminal Record with Clean Slate Laws

The benefits of having a conviction expunged in Michigan are significant. After a conviction is expunged, it is removed from the public eye. This means that, for most purposes, employers, landlords, and others conducting background checks will not be able to see the conviction.


For individuals seeking a fresh start, expungement offers the chance to:


  • Secure Better Employment Opportunities – Expungement increases your chances of gaining employment by removing criminal records from background checks.
  • Access Housing and Financial Opportunities – With an expunged record, you may find it easier to secure a rental home or obtain a loan.
  • Obtain Professional Licenses – Many professional licenses require background checks. Expungement can remove past barriers to your career growth.


However, it’s important to note that while an expunged conviction is no longer public, the Michigan State Police maintain a non-public record of the conviction. This record can only be accessed in specific situations by:


  • Courts and law enforcement agencies
  • The Department of Corrections
  • Certain state agencies, including prosecutors, the attorney general, and the governor’s office


These circumstances include situations such as when you're applying for certain professional licenses, convicted of a new crime, or applying for a job with law enforcement or the Department of Corrections.

Eligibility for Expungement in Michigan: Who Can Apply?

Not all convictions are eligible for expungement, and eligibility requirements are based on several factors:



  • Time Requirements – In general, you must wait five years after your sentencing or completion of any jail or prison term (whichever is later) before you can apply for expungement.
  • Nature of the Offense – Certain crimes are not eligible for expungement, such as crimes punishable by lifetime imprisonment, sex crimes, and traffic offenses. These cannot be cleared through either the automatic or application-based process.
  • Number of Convictions – Michigan's Clean Slate law also allows individuals with up to two minor offenses to still qualify for expungement of other convictions. This offers more flexibility for those with a record that may have included several offenses.

Start Fresh and Take Control of Your Future

At Coppins Law Group, PLLC, we understand the profound impact that a criminal record can have on your life. Whether you're looking to advance in your career, secure stable housing, or simply move forward with peace of mind, expungement could provide the relief you need. Our experienced Michigan expungement attorneys can help you navigate the legal process, ensuring you understand your eligibility and the steps involved in filing for expungement.


Don't let your past mistakes define your future. Contact Coppins Law Group at (800) 452-1761 to schedule your free initial consultation. Let us help you take the first step toward a clean slate and a brighter future.

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