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Missouri Expungements — Clear Your Record

A criminal record can follow you for life — affecting jobs, housing, and opportunities. Missouri law allows many offenses to be expunged. Jeff Goldfarb can help you start fresh.

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What Is an Expungement?

An expungement is a court order that seals or destroys the records of an arrest or conviction, removing them from public view. Once expunged, you can legally answer no on most job applications and background checks when asked about prior arrests or convictions. Missouri significantly expanded its expungement law in 2018, making many more offenses eligible.

Who Is Eligible?

Under Missouri law, most misdemeanors and many felonies are eligible for expungement after a waiting period — typically 3 years for misdemeanors and 7 years for felonies. You must have completed your sentence, paid all fines, and not been convicted of any other offense during the waiting period. Certain offenses — including dangerous felonies, sex offenses requiring registration, and DWI convictions — are not eligible.

The Expungement Process

The process begins with filing a petition in the court where you were convicted. The prosecuting attorney and arresting agency are notified and have the opportunity to object. A hearing is scheduled, and Jeff presents your case to the judge. If granted, the court orders all records sealed. The entire process typically takes 3 to 6 months.

How an Expungement Changes Your Life

With an expunged record, you can pursue jobs, professional licenses, housing, and educational opportunities that were previously closed to you. Employers, landlords, and licensing boards conducting background checks will not see the expunged offense. It is one of the most impactful legal steps a person can take to move forward after a past mistake.