You probably know well how a criminal conviction can follow you for many years, if not the rest of your life. For example, a criminal record can impact your ability to find and retain gainful employment.
After serving your sentence and rejoining society, you deserve to have the same opportunities other citizens enjoy. An expungement under Michigan’s Clean Slate program can help you do just that.
What is Clean Slate?
In April 2023, Michigan law enforcement launched a program called Clean Slate. Eligible individuals may have their criminal record expunged automatically through this legislation without taking any action. That means your conviction may have already disappeared from your record.
Who is eligible?
Eligibility for the program depends on the offense and how long ago you were convicted or completed your sentence. While many crimes qualify for this innovative new program, there are some that do not.
Examples of ineligible offenses include:
- Crimes of violence
- Driving while intoxicated
- Human trafficking offenses
- Traffic violations that cause death
- Offenses involving dishonesty (fraud, etc.)
You must wait seven years from the day of sentence imposition for automatic misdemeanor expungements. For felony offenses, eligible offenders must endure a 10-year waiting period.
Is it the only way to clear your record?
No. Those ineligible for automatic expungement through the scheme must follow the formal application process to set aside convictions.
Experienced legal representation usually improves the odds of obtaining an expungement for those who do not qualify for the Clean Slate program. Guidance may also benefit those who should have qualified but did not obtain an automatic expungement.
