Can I Get My Record Expunged in Ohio? What You Need to Know in 2025

A criminal record can follow you for years, affecting your ability to find a job, secure housing, pursue education, or even volunteer at your child’s school. But in Ohio, 2025 brings renewed opportunities for a second chance through record expungement and sealing.

If you're wondering whether you're eligible, what the process looks like, or how recent legal changes may apply to your case, here’s what you need to know.

What Is Record Expungement in Ohio?

In Ohio, the terms “expungement” and “record sealing” are often used interchangeably, but they are different:

Record sealing means the public can no longer view your criminal record, although law enforcement and certain government agencies may still access it.
Expungement refers to the complete destruction of records. While Ohio law has historically focused on sealing rather than expungement, updates in 2023 and 2025 have expanded the scope of who can apply and what records can be sealed or expunged.

In either case, the goal is the same: to clear your name and give you a better chance at rebuilding your life.

Who Is Eligible for Expungement or Record Sealing in Ohio?

To be eligible, you must meet all of the following criteria:

You have completed all court requirements, including fines, probation, community service, or restitution
You have no pending criminal charges
You’ve waited the required amount of time after your “final discharge” (completion of sentence and all obligations)

Waiting Periods:

Misdemeanor convictions: 1 year
Eligible felony convictions: 3 years
Ignored Cases: 2 years after report of grand jury
Non-convictions (dismissed charges, not guilty verdicts): no waiting period

Some offenses are not eligible for expungement or sealing under Ohio law.

Not Eligible for Expungement:

First- or second-degree felonies
Most violent offenses (e.g., murder, kidnapping, assault with serious harm)
Sex offenses requiring registration
Traffic offenses, including OVI/DUI
Domestic violence (in most cases)
Offenses involving minors under 13
Violations of protective or restraining orders

However, a recent change clarifies that multiple charges arising from the same incident may be considered one conviction for expungement purposes, making more people eligible than ever.

What Changed for Expungement Eligibility in 2025?

As of March 20, 2025, Ohio enacted updates that slightly broaden eligibility and streamline the process, including:

Certain third-degree felonies may now be eligible, especially for first-time offenders or where no physical harm occurred.
Updated filing guidelines and forms have been released statewide to simplify the application process.
Courts are required to give more weight to evidence of rehabilitation and may not automatically deny applications based on employment history or minor infractions.

These changes mean it’s more important than ever to have a skilled attorney review your case to determine if you now qualify, even if you were previously denied.

How Does the Expungement Process Work?

Here’s a step-by-step look at the Ohio expungement process:

Confirm eligibility: Work with an attorney to review your record and confirm you meet the legal requirements.
Gather documents: Gather case records, proof of sentence completion, and other relevant paperwork.
File your application: Submit the expungement/sealing request in the court where your conviction occurred. Filing fees are typically around $50 per case.
Attend a hearing: If required, you’ll explain your case and demonstrate your rehabilitation. The prosecutor may object.
Receive the court’s decision: If granted, your record will be sealed or expunged, removing it from public view.

Why Should You Pursue Expungement?

Even if your conviction was years ago, the benefits of clearing your record can be life-changing.

Benefits of Expungement:

Employment: Many employers conduct background checks. Expungement can open doors to jobs that were previously off-limits.
Housing: Landlords often reject applicants with criminal records. Sealing your record improves your chances of securing housing.
Education: Gain access to scholarships, college programs, and federal aid that may have been out of reach.
Peace of Mind: You deserve to live without the constant shadow of a past mistake.

Ready For A Fresh Start? Hire a Great Lawyer For Expungement

Expungement is a powerful tool, but the process is technical, and eligibility rules can be confusing. Prosecutors may oppose your application, and small filing errors could cause delays or denials. That’s why it’s critical to work with a defense team that understands the system from every angle.

At The Law Offices of Steven R. Adams, we know the Ohio expungement process inside and out. We’ll help you determine eligibility, guide you through the paperwork, and represent you in court, maximizing your chances for success.

If you’ve done the work, served your sentence, and moved forward with your life, you deserve the chance to leave the past behind. Let our experienced legal team help you clear your name and confidently move forward.