What crimes are not expungeable in Ohio?

Asked by: Zita Feest  |  Last update: March 4, 2026
Score: 4.4/5 (70 votes)

In Ohio, crimes that generally cannot be expunged include most first and second-degree felonies, violent crimes, most sex offenses (especially those requiring registration), OVI/DUI, traffic offenses, crimes with victims under 13, and offenses involving domestic violence or protection order violations, though exceptions exist for specific misdemeanor assaults and other lower-level offenses.

What charges are not eligible for expungement?

Crimes that generally cannot be expunged include serious violent offenses (murder, rape, aggravated assault, kidnapping), sex offenses (especially those involving minors or requiring registration), human trafficking, terrorism, arson, DUI/DWI (especially felony levels), domestic violence, crimes involving serious bodily harm or death, public corruption, and many serious traffic offenses, though specifics vary significantly by state. Federal convictions are also often ineligible, and some states bar expungement for repeat offenders or certain high-level felonies. 

Do felonies go away after 7 years in Ohio?

Contrary to popular belief, a criminal record is not automatically sealed, expunged, nor does it disappear after a number of years. In fact, a felony will stay on one's record until an application for expungement is filed with the Court to expunge and/or seal a record.

Can assault be expunged in Ohio?

In most cases, Simple Assault (also known as Misdemeanor Assault) is eligible for expungement under the Ohio Expungement and Sealing Statute (O.R.C. 2953.31 and related sections). Misdemeanor assault is a special exception to the preclusion of sealing of crimes of violence under 2953.36.

How do I clear my criminal record in Ohio?

Records of a defendant's conviction may be expunged at the sentencing court's discretion, and are then subject to limited access. Expungement requires that 1) The convictions requested to be expunged are eligible offenses [R.C. 2953.32] and 2) The necessary waiting period has passed.

What can be expunged from a criminal record in Ohio?

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What crimes are not eligible for expungement in Ohio?

Which Criminal Records Cannot Be Expunged and Sealed in Ohio?

  • Any first- or second-degree felony,
  • Any violent crime,
  • DUI/OVI,
  • Sexual battery,
  • Rape,
  • Sexual imposition,
  • Gross sexual imposition,
  • Domestic Violence,

How do I know if my felony has been expunged?

The clerk can look up your information and tell you what is in their system, such as the expungement order or other criminal convictions, arrests, or charges. Likewise, you can contact law enforcement to see if your information still shows up in their system.

What is the clean slate law in Ohio?

In Ohio, people can apply for both record sealing and expungement of juvenile records at the same time. If only sealing of the juvenile records is granted, the juvenile court will expunge the records 5 years after they are sealed or when the person turns 23 years old –whichever happens first.

Is expunging your record worth it?

Yes, for most people, criminal expungement is highly worth it, offering significant benefits like better job and housing opportunities, easier access to education, and restored civil rights, effectively giving a fresh start by removing past convictions from public view. While the legal process can be complex and not all records are eligible (especially serious offenses like domestic violence), the rewards of clearing your name and unlocking future potential often outweigh the effort and cost, says Anshin Mobile Notary & LiveScan and Lohrke Law. 

What crimes in Ohio have no statute of limitations?

Ohio law specifies that some serious crimes have no statute of limitations, meaning charges can be brought at any time, regardless of how much time has passed since the alleged offense. These include: Aggravated murder and murder: There's no time limit for prosecuting intentional killings.

How far back does a criminal background check go in Ohio?

If you're record hasn't been expunged, any past charges can appear in the criminal background check. The State of Ohio does not limit how far back a background check can go. The average search goes back seven years, but it varies widely depending on the services used.

Can you travel with a felony record?

As long as you have finished serving your sentence and no court has barred you from traveling internationally. Some countries do not convicted felons in. Make sure the country where you're planning to travel to will let you in their country.

What is the second chance program for felons in Ohio?

The Second Chance Act of 2007 aims to reduce recidivism, rebuild ties between defendants/persons under supervision and their families, support evidence-based practices, protect the public, and assist in establishing a self-sustaining life.

What are the hardest crimes to prove?

Top 5 Hardest Criminal Charges to Beat

  • First-degree Murder.
  • Sexual Assault.
  • Drug Trafficking.
  • White-collar Fraud.
  • Repeat DUI Offenses.
  • DNA Evidence.
  • Digital Forensics.
  • Ballistics and Weapon Analysis.

What if my expungement is denied?

A denied expungement petition can feel like a major setback, but it is not necessarily the end of the road. A Santa Rosa criminal defense lawyer can review the court's decision, identify any errors in the original petition filing or legal arguments, and explain your next legal steps.

Is my life ruined if I get a misdemeanor?

A misdemeanor won't necessarily ruin your life, but it can have significant, long-lasting impacts on employment, housing, education, and professional licensing, though these effects often lessen over time and can sometimes be expunged or sealed. While it's not as severe as a felony, a conviction creates a criminal record that can show up on background checks, making it harder to get certain jobs or loans, but many employers overlook misdemeanors, especially after several years or if the conviction is expunged. 

Can the FBI see my expunged record?

A Level 2 FBI Background Check

A Level 2 check will even uncover those sealed or expunged records – especially if they involve the mistreatment of children, the elderly, or the disabled.

Is it better to have your record sealed or expunged?

It's generally better to get a record expunged if you qualify, as it erases the record, making it as if it never happened and completely removing it from most background checks. Sealing a record hides it from public view, but law enforcement and some government agencies can still access it with a court order, making expungement the superior, though often harder to get, option for a truly clean slate. 

Can a judge see an expunged record?

If you are arrested again for another crime, law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and the criminal court may still be able to see your expunged records. The court can use your prior conviction against you as allowed by state and federal law.

What convictions cannot be expunged in Ohio?

In Ohio, certain serious offenses cannot be expunged, including first and second-degree felonies, violent crimes involving harm or threats to others, sexual offenses where the defendant is still required to register as a sex offender, crimes against victims under 13 years old (except non-support of dependents), ...

What crimes are not expungeable?

Crimes that generally cannot be expunged include serious violent offenses (murder, rape, aggravated assault, kidnapping), sex offenses (especially those involving minors or requiring registration), human trafficking, terrorism, arson, DUI/DWI (especially felony levels), domestic violence, crimes involving serious bodily harm or death, public corruption, and many serious traffic offenses, though specifics vary significantly by state. Federal convictions are also often ineligible, and some states bar expungement for repeat offenders or certain high-level felonies. 

How can I get my record expunged for free in Ohio?

The Second Chance Project provides free, direct legal services, expertise, and resources for: Record Sealing or Expungement. For Ohio convictions.

Can you see if anyone has a criminal record?

Yes, you can often find someone's criminal record by searching public court records online or in person, using state-specific databases or private background check services, though access varies by jurisdiction and some records are sealed; you'll typically need the full name and date of birth for the most accurate results. You can usually access county court records directly, use state Department of Public Safety/Justice websites, or hire professional services for a comprehensive search, with fees often involved. 

How to get felony charges dropped?

The 5 most common ways to get a felony charge dropped are (1) to show a lack of probable cause, (2) to demonstrate a violation of your constitutional rights, (3) to accept a plea agreement, (4) to cooperate with law enforcement in another case, or (5) to enter a pretrial diversion program.

How do I know if my record is clean?

Local police background check

Police departments may need you to be there in person to request the background check: Ask that the police conduct a local or state criminal records search. Request proof that you have no history of a criminal record.