Michigan Expungement Eligibility Screening
Free tool to check if your Michigan criminal record may qualify for expungement under the Clean Slate Act.
Legal Disclaimer: This tool provides general legal information only. It does not constitute legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship. Results should be verified with a licensed Michigan attorney. Provided by The Foundation of Change, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit (EIN: 33-5003265).
Do you have any pending criminal charges?
Michigan law requires that all pending charges be resolved before you can apply for expungement. This includes charges in any jurisdiction.
What is Expungement?
Expungement — formally known as “setting aside” a conviction in Michigan — is the legal process that removes eligible criminal convictions from your public record. Once a conviction is set aside, it no longer appears on most background checks, opening doors to employment, housing, education, and professional licensing that were previously closed.
Michigan's Clean Slate Act, signed into law in October 2020, dramatically expanded who qualifies for expungement. The landmark legislation represents one of the most significant criminal justice reforms in Michigan history:
- Increased the number of felony convictions that can be set aside from 1 to 3
- Removed the cap on misdemeanor set-asides (previously limited to 2)
- Introduced automatic expungement by Michigan State Police for qualifying offenses after 7 years (misdemeanors) or 10 years (felonies)
- Created the “One Bad Night” provision, allowing multiple offenses within a 24-hour window to count as a single offense for limit purposes
- Made certain marijuana offenses immediately eligible for expungement with no waiting period, reflecting Michigan's 2018 legalization
- Allowed set-aside of one OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) conviction for first offenders
An estimated 1 million Michigan residents may be eligible for expungement under the expanded law. This tool helps you understand whether your convictions may qualify — but it is not a substitute for professional legal counsel.
Michigan Legal Aid Resources
Free and low-cost legal assistance for Michigan residents seeking expungement.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is expungement in Michigan?
Expungement (officially called "setting aside" a conviction) is the legal process of removing a conviction from your public criminal record in Michigan. Once a conviction is set aside, it is no longer visible on most background checks, helping you access employment, housing, education, and other opportunities.
What is the Michigan Clean Slate Act?
The Clean Slate Act, signed into law in 2020, significantly expanded who qualifies for expungement in Michigan. It increased the number of felonies that can be set aside from 1 to 3, removed the limit on misdemeanor set-asides, and introduced automatic expungement for certain qualifying offenses after 7 years (misdemeanors) or 10 years (felonies) without a new conviction.
Which offenses can never be expunged in Michigan?
Certain offenses are categorically excluded from expungement under Michigan law. These include: offenses punishable by life imprisonment, criminal sexual conduct (CSC), child sexually abusive material (CSAM), human trafficking, child abuse, and traffic offenses that caused death or serious injury.
How long do I have to wait to apply for expungement?
Waiting periods depend on the type of offense. For misdemeanors, you must wait 3 years after completing all conditions (sentence, probation, fines). For felonies, the waiting period is 5 years. Automatic set-aside occurs after 7 years for misdemeanors and 10 years for felonies, if there are no new convictions.
Can I expunge an OWI (DUI) in Michigan?
Under certain conditions, one OWI conviction may be set aside. However, there are strict limits: only a first OWI offense may qualify, and additional eligibility requirements apply. Consult with a licensed Michigan attorney to determine if your specific OWI conviction is eligible.
Does this tool provide legal advice?
No. This tool provides general legal information only. It does not constitute legal advice and does not create an attorney-client relationship. The Foundation of Change (EIN: 33-5003265) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, not a law firm. All results should be verified with a licensed Michigan attorney.
© 2026 The Foundation of Change. 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Organization (EIN: 33-5003265). This tool provides general legal information about Michigan expungement law and does not constitute legal advice. No attorney-client relationship is created through the use of this tool. The information presented is based on Michigan statutes MCL 780.621 et seq. and may not reflect the most recent legislative changes. Always consult a licensed Michigan attorney for legal advice specific to your situation.