Expungements and Record Sealing in Pennsylvania
Clear Your Record. Take Back Your Future.
At The Hoover Firm, we understand that a criminal record—no matter how minor or dated—can stand in the way of opportunities in employment, housing, education, and even professional licensing. Fortunately, Pennsylvania law provides mechanisms to clear or seal certain records. Attorney Hoover is an experienced criminal defense attorney who helps individuals across Pennsylvania pursue expungements and record sealing to restore their reputations and protect their futures.
What Is an Expungement in Pennsylvania?
An expungement is the legal process of removing a criminal charge or conviction from your public record. Once expunged, the offense is essentially erased, and you can legally state that the incident did not occur in most circumstances.
Eligibility for Expungement in Pennsylvania
You may be eligible for expungement in the following situations:
- Summary offenses: If you were convicted of a summary offense (such as underage drinking or disorderly conduct), and five years have passed without any subsequent criminal arrests or convictions.
-
Charges that did not result in conviction: Including charges that were:
- Withdrawn
- Dismissed
-
Resulted in a not guilty verdict
- ARD program completion: If you successfully completed the Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) program, often used in first-time DUI and other non-violent cases.
- Juvenile records: Upon turning 18 and meeting certain conditions, juvenile records may be expunged.
- Deceased individuals: The criminal record of a deceased person can be expunged.
Note: Most felony and misdemeanor convictions are not eligible for expungement under Pennsylvania law. However, you may qualify for limited access sealing instead.
What Is Record Sealing (Limited Access Orders)?
Record sealing, also known as limited access, restricts who can view your criminal history. While law enforcement and certain state agencies can still access sealed records, members of the public—including employers and landlords—cannot.
Clean Slate Law: Automatic Record Sealing
Pennsylvania’s Clean Slate Law provides for automatic sealing of eligible criminal records after a certain period of time, including:
- Second- and third-degree misdemeanor convictions, if ten years have passed without any subsequent convictions.
- Summary offenses, under certain conditions.
- Arrests and charges that did not lead to conviction.
Petition-Based Record Sealing
If your case is not eligible for automatic sealing, The Hoover Firm can help you file a petition for limited access, particularly for:
- Misdemeanor convictions of the first degree, under certain circumstances.
- Other offenses not covered by automatic Clean Slate provisions.
Expungement vs. Record Sealing: What’s the Difference?
| Feature | Expungement | Record Sealing |
|---|---|---|
| Removes record entirely? | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Visible to public? | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| Visible to law enforcement? | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Available for convictions? | ❌ Rarely | ✅ In some cases |
| Best for... | Charges not resulting in conviction, ARD, summary offenses | Misdemeanors, Clean Slate-eligible offenses |
Why Hire The Hoover Firm?
Navigating the expungement and record sealing process in Pennsylvania can be complex. Our legal team brings deep experience and personalized attention to every case. We know the ins and outs of the Pennsylvania court system and how to advocate effectively for your clean slate.
When you work with The Hoover Firm, you benefit from:
- ✅ Thorough eligibility assessment
- ✅ Strategic legal planning
- ✅ Accurate petition filing
- ✅ Representation in court (if necessary)
- ✅ Follow-up to ensure records are updated and sealed/expunged
We handle every aspect of the process so you can focus on moving forward with your life.
Frequently Asked Questions About Record Clearing
How long does expungement take in Pennsylvania?
The expungement process can take anywhere from 4 to 6 months, depending on the county and complexity of the case.
Can employers see a sealed record?
No. Once your record is sealed, employers conducting background checks will no longer see the sealed charges or convictions.
Will my record be cleared automatically under the Clean Slate Law?
Possibly. While many cases are sealed automatically, not all are. If your case isn’t sealed, or if you need it sealed faster, we can help file a petition to accelerate the process.
Is expungement or sealing available for felonies?
Generally, felony convictions are not eligible for expungement or sealing in Pennsylvania. However, each case is unique, call us to review your specific circumstances.
Get Help Clearing Your Record – Contact The Hoover Firm Today
A criminal record shouldn’t define your future. Whether you’re seeking a fresh start through expungement or looking to limit access to your record through sealing, The Hoover Firm is here to help. Reach out now for more information.