Clean Slate
A past conviction doesn’t have to stand in the way of your future.
Michigan’s Clean Slate laws allow many eligible convictions to be removed from public view. Some convictions are set aside automatically, while others require an application. Nation Outside can help you understand your options and find the right resources.
Michigan’s Clean Slate laws expanded opportunities for people to have certain criminal convictions set aside, commonly called expungement. When an eligible conviction is set aside, it is removed from public view, which can reduce barriers when applying for jobs, housing, education, and other opportunities.
Some eligible convictions are now set aside automatically.
Others still require you to apply through the court.
What does expungement mean?
In Michigan, the legal term is a set aside, although most people call it an expungement. When a conviction is set aside, it is generally removed from public view and will not appear on most standard background checks. Law enforcement and certain government or licensing agencies may still be able to access the non-public record.
Has my record already been cleared?
Michigan’s Clean Slate laws expanded opportunities for people to have certain criminal convictions set aside, commonly called expungement. When an eligible conviction is set aside, it is removed from public view, which can reduce barriers when applying for jobs, housing, education, and other opportunities.
Some eligible convictions are now set aside automatically.
Others still require you to apply through the court.
What if I need to apply?
If a conviction was not automatically set aside, you may be able to apply to have it cleared. The process can include reviewing your record, determining eligibility, completing the appropriate court application, and submitting required documentation.
Michigan currently advises that the full application process can take up to eight months, depending on the case.
Nation Outside can help connect you with information and legal resources.
You don’t have to figure it out alone.
Nation Outside has worked on Clean Slate and expungement reform since Michigan passed its Clean Slate legislation. Our work is led by people with lived experience of the criminal legal system, and we help communities understand their rights, navigate available resources, and connect with expungement assistance.
Through community outreach, education, and expungement events, we work to make sure the people who can benefit from Clean Slate actually know about it and can access that relief.
Expungement fairs bring people together with legal professionals and community organizations that can help them understand their record, determine possible next steps, and receive assistance with the expungement process.
Clean Slate
Clean Slate Resources
These links take you to official State of Michigan resources.
Nation Outside can help you understand your options and connect with additional assistance.