A Second Chance at a Clean Slate
A criminal arrest record in Alabama is a heavy anchor. Even if you were never convicted, the mere record of an arrest can appear on background checks, destroying opportunities for employment, professional licensing, housing, and education. Fortunately, Alabama's REDEEMER Act expanded the laws allowing individuals to expunge (erase) certain arrests and convictions from their public records.
Who is Eligible for Expungement?
Expungement is a privilege, not a right, and eligibility is strictly defined by statute. You may be eligible to petition for expungement if your case resulted in:
- Dismissal: The charges against you were dismissed with prejudice (or without prejudice, after a waiting period).
- No Bill / No True Bill: The grand jury declined to indict you.
- Acquittal: You were found not guilty at trial.
- Diversion Completion: You successfully completed a recognized pre-trial diversion program or drug court.
Furthermore, Alabama law now allows for the expungement of certain misdemeanor and non-violent felony convictions, provided you have met all conditions of your sentence, paid all fines and restitution, and maintained a clean record for a specified number of years (often 3 years for misdemeanors and 15 years for eligible felonies).
The Expungement Process
The process is highly administrative and requires precision. A petition must be filed in the Circuit Court where the charge originated, served upon the District Attorney and law enforcement agencies, and accompanied by certified records and a specific filing fee (currently $500 per charge plus court costs).
The District Attorney has the right to object. If an objection is filed, a hearing will be held before a judge who will decide whether the expungement serves the public interest.
A clean record is an investment in your future. If you want to know if you qualify to clear your name, our defense team can guide you through the process. Contact us for an eligibility review.