Why You Should Get Your Criminal Record Expunged

Having a criminal record can create long-term consequences for employment, housing, and professional licensing, which is why many people explore the benefits of expunging a criminal record.

For many individuals, expungement offers a path forward. Clearing or sealing a criminal record can reduce the impact of past mistakes and remove barriers that no longer serve a meaningful purpose. Below, we explain what expungement is, why it matters, and when pursuing it may make sense.

How a Criminal Record Continues to Affect Your Life

Many people assume that once a case is over, it stays in the past. In reality, criminal records are frequently pulled into the present through automated background checks used by employers, landlords, lenders, and licensing agencies.

A criminal record may affect your ability to:

• Pass employment background screenings
• Secure rental housing or qualify for a mortgage
• Obtain professional or occupational licenses
• Enroll in certain educational programs
• Access financial aid or scholarships

Even cases that did not result in a conviction can still appear on reports, creating confusion or doubt for decision-makers who may not look closely at the outcome.

What Expungement Means Under the Law

Expungement is a legal process that limits public access to certain criminal records. When a record is expunged, it is either sealed from public view or removed from publicly accessible databases, depending on the type of expungement granted and the laws of the state.

In Minnesota, expungement does not necessarily erase a record completely. Some government agencies may still access expunged records in limited situations. However, for most employers, landlords, and members of the public, the record no longer appears in routine background checks.

Expungement vs. Record Sealing

These terms are often used interchangeably, but they can carry different legal meanings:

• Record sealing generally restricts public access while allowing broader access for government entities.
• Expungement may provide stronger protection by limiting access more broadly, depending on the court order.

Understanding the difference matters, especially when deciding which form of relief best fits your situation.

The Benefits of Expunging a Criminal Record

Improved Employment Opportunities

Many employers rely on third-party screening companies that flag any criminal history, regardless of age or outcome. Expungement can remove those flags, making it easier to move through hiring processes without automatic rejection.

Better Access to Housing

Landlords often use criminal background reports to screen tenants. An expunged record may reduce denials and open doors to more housing options.

Financial Stability and Advancement

Expungement can help with:

• Qualifying for higher-paying jobs
• Reducing insurance complications
• Improving access to loans or credit

Over time, these changes can significantly affect long-term financial security.

Personal Peace of Mind

Beyond practical benefits, many people seek expungement to reduce stress and uncertainty. Knowing that past cases are less likely to resurface can provide a sense of closure and stability.

Who May Qualify for Criminal Record Expungement

Eligibility depends on several factors, including:

• Whether the case resulted in dismissal, acquittal, or conviction
• The type and severity of the offense
• How much time has passed since the case ended
• Whether additional offenses occurred afterward

Minnesota law sets specific waiting periods and eligibility rules. Some cases qualify automatically after a certain time, while others require a judge’s approval.

How the Expungement Process Works

The expungement process typically involves:

1. Filing a formal petition with the court
2. Submitting supporting documentation
3. Notifying relevant agencies
4. Attending a hearing, if required

A judge then weighs factors such as rehabilitation, public safety, and fairness before issuing a decision. The process can take several months and may vary based on case complexity and court schedules.

Do You Need a Lawyer to Expunge Your Record?

While it is possible to file for expungement without legal help, the process can be technical. Errors in paperwork, missed deadlines, or incomplete arguments can delay or derail a petition.

Working with an attorney can help ensure:

• Proper eligibility analysis
• Accurate filings
• Clear presentation of why expungement is appropriate

Because expungement decisions are discretionary in many cases, preparation matters and an expumgement lawyer on your side is critical.

When Expungement Makes the Most Sense

Expungement may be worth pursuing if:

• Your record continues to appear on background checks
• Past cases no longer reflect who you are today
• You are facing repeated denials for jobs or housing
• You want to reduce long-term obstacles tied to old cases

Timing can matter. Understanding when you are eligible and how to present your case can influence the outcome.

Moving Forward After Expungement

Expungement does not rewrite history, but it can change how the past affects the present. For many people, it marks a turning point, one that allows them to compete more fairly for opportunities and move forward without constant reminders of resolved cases.

If you are considering expungement, learning your options and understanding the process is the first step toward regaining control over your future. Reach out to Bruno Law today and discuss your expungement options.