How to Get a Crime Expunged in Michigan: Your Complete Guide
- Royce Nunley
- May 31
- 4 min read
Updated: Jun 5
FAQs, 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 to make expunging your record an attainable step to getting your life back.
Here are the most common questions we hear, along with everything you need to know about eligibility and how to begin getting a crime expunged in Michigan.
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 convictions
Timing 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 felonies
The clock starts after your sentence, probation, or parole is complete—whichever is latest.
How Many People in Michigan Qualify for Expungement?
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 Record
You’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 court where you were convicted. You’ll also need to:
Get fingerprinted
Serve 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 a Lawyer to Get a Crime Expunged in Michigan?
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.
The Nunley Law Group offers affordable pricing for criminal expungements
Contact us today for a free consultation and take the first step toward reclaiming your future.
Other Helpful Expungement Resources:
| About the Author
Email. Royce@nunleylawgroup.com
Tel. 586-778-4555
Royce Nunley is the founder and lead attorney at The Nunley Law Group, where he represents clients in the areas of Family Law, Criminal Defense, Social Security Disability, and Personal Injury. Known for his client-focused approach and legal insight, Royce is deeply committed to delivering personalized legal solutions tailored to each individual's needs.
Royce earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Spanish, Cum Laude, from Wayne State University, and continued his education at Wayne State University Law School, where he received his Juris Doctorate, also Cum Laude. His academic excellence laid a strong foundation for a career marked by both compassion and tenacity in the courtroom.
Royce has been recognized for his outstanding work in Family Law, earning the distinction of Super Lawyers "Rising Star" for six consecutive years—2019 through 2024—an honor reserved for only the top 2.5% of attorneys in the state.
With a reputation for taking the time to truly understand his clients and their legal challenges, Royce ensures that every person who walks through his door receives the respect, transparency, and tireless advocacy they deserve.
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