Expunging Arrests & Criminal Convictions in Missouri

A criminal conviction can have long-lasting and far-reaching consequences. Individuals convicted of a crime may suffer any number of undesirable consequences, such as the inability to possess a firearm, obtain certain professional licenses, obtain safe housing, or earn a quality education. 

Fortunately, some individuals have access to an option that can help them avoid these types of consequences.

Expunging Criminal Records

Depending on their specific situations, some individuals may qualify to have their records expunged. "Expunge" simply means "to remove completely." In a legal sense, this means removing a criminal history such that no criminal record appears in a traditional background check.

Obviously, expungement is an attractive and desirable solution for individuals who have been arrested for or convicted of a crime. Today, our Missouri criminal defense attorneys are here to take a closer look at local expungement laws. 

Expungement Eligibility

Generally, expungement is a possibility for individuals who have been convicted of various misdemeanors and felonies that do not cause far-reaching damage or harm to other individuals. The following crimes are a few examples of convictions that may qualify for expungement:
  • Tampering with personal property
  • Gambling
  • Writing a bad check
  • A juvenile alcohol-related offense
  • Disturbing the peace
  • A DUI that is 10+ years old

It is important to note that not all individuals convicted of these crimes may qualify for expungement. Applicants seeking expungement must meet a number of specific criteria in order to qualify for their records to be expunged.

it should also be noted there is a waiting period after a conviction before a record may be expunged.

Expungement Ineligibility

Though certain crimes may qualify for expungement, others may not. The state of Missouri does not allow most records of violent crimes or other serious felonies to be expunged. Even if the crime in question was relatively harmless, certain preexisting factors may prevent an individual from seeking expungement. 

If any of the below situations apply to you, you may not be eligible to seek expungement even if the current charge is only a misdemeanor:
  • You are a registered sex offender
  • You have a prior felony conviction
  • You have been convicted of sexual crimes
  • You have been convicted of violent crimes

Questions About Expungement? Contact Us.

In qualifying situations, expungement offers a valuable way for individuals to get away from the far-reaching impacts of their conviction so that they may move on with their lives. However, as we have established, Missouri's expungement laws are complex and subject to a number of limitations. If you would like to learn whether or not expungement may be a viable option for you, contact our Lake of the Ozarks criminal defense attorneys by calling (573) 346-7231. 

Law Offices of Phillips, McElyea, Carpenter, & Welch, P.C.
The choice of a lawyer is an important decision and should not be based solely on advertising. When you need a knowledgeable attorney, we invite you to contact us to set up a consultation. Evening and weekend appointments are available. We have access to interpreters.

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