Expungement of Criminal Records in Minnesota

Minnesota statute 609A describes the process for expunging a criminal record. Expungement means sealing the record to public access. After an expungement, the government will still have access to the information.

Obtaining an expungement will depend upon what kind of record you are trying to seal. There is a different standard for different kinds of convictions. Your disposition may be a stayed sentence; a diversion program; or a straight up finding of guilt/judgment of guilty.

The process for obtaining an expungement involves filing and serving a petition for expungement, describing which records you want expunged and describing the disposition. In most cases there is a filing fee required when you file your petition.

The expungement statute requires clear and convincing evidence that the benefit to the petitioner in having the record sealed outweighs the benefit to the public and public safety having access to the records. Generally speaking, most felony convictions cannot be expunged but there are certain exceptions.

Obtaining an expungement can be a complicated procedure. If you want an expungement you should hire a competent lawyer to assist you. Our office handles expungements in Dakota, Scott, Carver, Hennepin, Ramsey, Washington & Anoka Counties.

The information in this post is not intended as legal advice. You should consult with an attorney for specific questions about this subject matter.