Expungements
Eligibility Requirements, and the Expungement Process Explained
Having a criminal record can create long-term barriers to employment, housing, education, and more. The good news? Michigan’s Clean Slate Law has made it easier than ever for people to clear their record and get a fresh start. At The Nunley Law Group, we help clients throughout Michigan navigate the expungement process successfully. We offer affordable, flat rate fees for record expungements.
What Is Expungement?
Expungement—also referred to as setting aside a conviction—is the legal process of removing a criminal offense from your public record. Once your record is expunged, it won’t appear on background checks, giving you better access to jobs, housing, and other opportunities.
Who Is Eligible for Expungement in Michigan?
Under Michigan's updated Clean Slate laws (effective April 2021), eligibility for expungement has expanded significantly. Here's a general overview:
Eligible Offenses Include:
Up to 3 felony convictions (with limitations)
Unlimited misdemeanor convictions, with exceptions
Certain traffic offenses
Marijuana misdemeanors that would be legal under current laws
Not Eligible for Expungement:
Most crimes involving minors, vulnerable adults, or criminal sexual conduct
Felony domestic violence, if you have multiple assaultive convictions
Federal or out-of-state convictionsTiming matters, too. You must wait:
3 years for 1 felony or up to 3 misdemeanors
5 years for more than 1 felony
7 years for more serious feloniesThe clock starts after your sentence, probation, or parole is complete—whichever is latest.
How Many People in Michigan Qualify?
According to the University of Michigan Law School, over 1 million Michigan residents are now eligible to have their criminal records expunged under the Clean Slate initiative. However, fewer than 7% of eligible individuals have completed the process due to a lack of awareness, paperwork confusion, or fear of legal costs.
What Is the Expungement Process in Michigan?
The expungement process can be time-consuming, but with legal support, it becomes manageable and much more effective. Here are the steps involved:
1. Determine Eligibility
Work with an attorney to review your record and confirm your eligibility under Michigan law.
2. Obtain Your Criminal RecordYou’ll need to request a copy of your full criminal record and identify the convictions you want to expunge.
3. Complete and File the Application
You must fill out the Application to Set Aside Conviction (MC 227) and submit it to the courtwhere you were convicted.
You’ll also need to:
Get fingerprintedServe copies of the application to the Michigan State Police and prosecutor
Pay a filing fee (unless waived)
4. Attend a Hearing
A judge will review your case, including your behavior since the conviction, and decide whether to grant expungement. Having legal representation significantly improves your chances.
Why Hire an Expungement Lawyer?
Expungement law can be complex. At The Nunley Law Group, we handle the entire process— from record checks to filing paperwork and representing you in court. Here’s why working with us gives you an advantage:
Avoid application errors that could delay your case
Get help identifying eligible convictions
Increase your approval odds through strong legal arguments
Save time, money, and stress
Start Fresh with The Nunley Law Group
If you’ve served your time and stayed on the right path, you deserve a clean slate. The Nunley Law Group is here to guide you through the Michigan expungement process step-by-step. We’ve helped countless clients clear their records—and we’re ready to help you, too.
📞 586-778-4555
Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward reclaiming your future.
Other Helpful Expungement Resources:
Attorney General's expungement information with checklist