Once your criminal record is expunged in Maryland, it is generally sealed from public view. However, certain agencies, such as law enforcement, licensing boards, and some employers, may still access expunged records under specific circumstances.
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After your expungement is approved, the court sends the order to the Maryland Department of Public Safety and Correctional Services (DPSCS), which updates its Central Repository. Once that’s complete, connected agencies such as the FBI are also notified to update their databases. This process usually takes several weeks.
Most Maryland expungements are completed within about 60 to 90 days, but it can take longer if there are objections or if agency updates take extra time. You’ll receive confirmation once the court and related agencies finish processing your order.
Driving records are handled separately by the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA). Some minor traffic offenses are automatically removed after certain waiting periods (in some cases, within 31 days of eligibility). However, serious offenses such as DUI or DWI are not eligible for automatic expungement through the MVA.
Yes. Expunged records are generally sealed from public view, allowing you to legally answer “no” when asked about past convictions. However, certain employers, especially those in law enforcement, education, or healthcare, may still access your record during background checks.
Federal employment or jobs regulated under FDIC rules may still review expunged convictions. In some cases, applicants can request a waiver or provide documentation of expungement.
Once expunged, your record is sealed from public view. However, certain courts and law enforcement agencies may still access the record in specific situations, such as during future legal proceedings.
In most cases, no. Exceptions apply for applications involving law enforcement, corrections, or judicial positions.
Yes. In Maryland, most people regain the right to vote once they have completed any term of imprisonment for a felony conviction. You may register to vote as soon as your incarceration period is complete.
No. Expungement is a state-level process and does not automatically remove immigration consequences. If you’re a non-citizen, it’s best to consult an immigration attorney before assuming it will affect your status or eligibility.
Not usually. Most expungements are handled entirely on paper. The court will schedule a hearing only if someone, such as the State’s Attorney or a victim, files an objection.
On average, Maryland expungements take about 90 days, depending on case complexity and court backlog.
Once your record is expunged, it’s sealed from public access. You should receive a copy of the expungement order for your records. Keep in mind that some agencies and federal databases may take additional time to update.
Common reasons include errors in the petition, incomplete records, or ineligible offenses.
the court denies your petition, it will explain why. You may be able to refile later once you meet the eligibility requirements. While no one can guarantee approval, we make sure your forms are complete and filed correctly to give you the best possible chance.
Sometimes. Certain convictions resolved with a guilty or no contest plea may still qualify for expungement depending on the offense type and waiting period. Eligibility depends on Maryland’s expungement statutes.
You can request a copy of your criminal history from the Maryland Judiciary Case Search or the Maryland State Police. We can use this information to prepare your petition accurately.
Yes, as long as each case meets eligibility requirements. Each case must be filed separately, and some related charges may be treated as a single “unit” under Maryland law.