What is an Expungement?

 

Ohio law gives trial courts discretion to “expunge” certain criminal convictions – the expungement process essentially erases a prior criminal conviction from your record, as if you had never been convicted in the
first place. This is an incredibly valuable tool that gives certain individuals the opportunity to have their slate wiped clean – a clear criminal record can increase your chances to secure suitable employment, receive a professional license, etc.

You may also want to explore the possibility of an expungement if you were arrested and charged with a crime, but never convicted. In Ohio, the process for sealing criminal records is by way of an expungement. If you were charged and arrested for a criminal offense, but the case was dismissed or you were acquitted, the related records are likely still a matter of public record. You may be able to have these records sealed – essentially deleted – by way of an expungement.

Not every specific criminal offense is eligible for expungement. And even if your conviction is an expungable offense, you may be ineligible for an expungement depending on your criminal history.

Milano Attorneys are considered among the best in Cuyahoga County and throughout the nation. If you have a criminal conviction you would like to have expunged, or if you were arrested and charged but not convicted, contact us. We can assess your situation and provide you with your best options.

Celebrating 150 years since its founding, the 5,000-member Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association named 18 Living Legacy Lawyers. "Lawyers whose extraordinary leadership, innovation and professional excellence have truly transformed the legal, business and/or civic arena in Greater Cleveland over the course of their careers." Jay Milano is one of them.