Minnesota Expungement Lawyer

What Expungement Means in Minnesota

In Minnesota, an expungement generally seals a criminal record. It does not destroy it. Once a record is sealed, the agencies covered by the order generally may not disclose it to the public, including most employers and landlords who run background checks.

Police, prosecutors, and courts can still use sealed records in certain situations, such as a later criminal case. Some state licensing and background-study agencies can also open them, depending on the type of expungement and which agencies were included in the order.

Automatic Expungement Under Minnesota's Clean Slate Law

Minnesota's Clean Slate law took effect on January 1, 2025. It requires the state to seal certain records automatically, without a petition, once a person meets the requirements. In general, automatic expungement can apply to:

• Cases that were dismissed, or that ended in an acquittal or another resolution in your favor

• Many non-felony cases where you completed a diversion program or stay of adjudication and stayed out of new trouble for one year

• Many petty misdemeanor, misdemeanor, and gross misdemeanor convictions, and a limited list of lower-level felonies, after a crime-free waiting period that ranges from two to five years depending on the level of the offense

Many offenses are excluded, including several DWI, domestic assault, harassment, and order-for-protection violations. Automatic relief also does not reach some state agency records, such as certain human services and health background-study records. Separate laws also provide automatic expungement of certain cannabis offenses.

The state's review depends on what is in its criminal history system, so records can be missed. Nathan can check whether your record was sealed and, if not, whether a petition is the next step.

Expungement by Petition

If your record does not qualify for automatic sealing, you may be able to petition the court. Eligibility depends on how the case ended and how much time has passed without a new conviction. Waiting periods for convictions are measured from the date your sentence was discharged, and they are generally longer for more serious offenses.

What the Petition Process Looks Like

1. Record review. Nathan confirms what is on your record and which options apply.

2. Preparing the petition. The petition is signed under oath and describes the case, your history, and your rehabilitation.

3. Service on agencies. The petition and a proposed order are served on the prosecutor and the agencies whose records would be affected. Victims may be notified and may submit a statement.

4. Hearing. A hearing is generally held at least 60 days after service.

5. Decision and order. If the judge grants the petition, the order is sent to the affected agencies. Orders are generally stayed for a period after filing to allow time for any appeal.

For many convictions, the judge weighs the benefit to you against the interests of the public and public safety. No lawyer can promise that a petition will be granted.

Juvenile Records

Juvenile delinquency records can also be expunged in some cases, through Clean Slate or a request to the juvenile court, which considers your age at the time, the offense, and what you have done since.

Limits to Keep in Mind

• Firearms rights. An expungement does not automatically restore the right to possess firearms. For certain crimes of violence, the order must state that the firearms restriction continues.

• Predatory offender registration. Convictions for offenses that require registration as a predatory offender cannot be expunged.

• Later cases. An expunged conviction can still be used if you are charged with a new crime.

• Immigration. Expungement may not change how a conviction is treated under federal immigration law. Noncitizens should speak with an immigration lawyer before relying on an expungement. Hansen Law Office does not handle immigration matters.

• Professional licenses. Some licensing boards can still see sealed records.

Expungement FAQ

Do I need to do anything if my record qualifies for automatic expungement?

Usually not, but records can be missed and automatic relief does not cover every agency. It is worth confirming your record was sealed.

Does expungement erase my record?

No. Minnesota expungement seals records rather than destroying them. Sealed records are hidden from most public background checks but remain available to law enforcement and some agencies.

Can I get a DWI expunged?

Some impaired driving records may be eligible by petition, but several DWI offenses are excluded from automatic expungement. Nathan will review your specific record.

Talk With a Minnesota Expungement Lawyer

Nathan M. Hansen serves clients throughout Minnesota, including Washington, Ramsey, Dakota, Anoka, Hennepin, Sherburne, Carver, Wright, and Scott Counties. If an old case is holding you back, call 651-704-9600 for a free consultation to find out whether your record can be sealed. Evening and weekend appointments are generally available.

This page is general information, not legal advice. Contacting Hansen Law Office does not create an attorney-client relationship. Past results do not guarantee a similar outcome.