What is the new expungement law in Ohio?
Asked by: scraper | Last update: August 15, 2026Score: 0/5 (0 votes)
Ohio's expanded criminal record sealing and expungement laws, primarily enacted through Senate Bill 288, enable more Ohioans to clear their records by shortening waiting periods and distinguishing between "sealing" and "expungement".
What felonies can't be expunged in Ohio?
In Ohio, most first- and second-degree felonies, violent offenses, and crimes against children can never be expunged. While some lower-level felony convictions (F3, F4, F5) and dismissed charges are eligible, the following felonies permanently remain on your record:
Are you still a felon after 20 years?
No, felony convictions do not automatically disappear after any time period. They remain permanently on your criminal record unless you successfully petition for expungement, sealing, or receive a pardon. The seven-year rule applies only to certain employment reporting restrictions, not record existence.
How many times can you expunge your record in Ohio?
Beginning October 29, 2018, under Ohio law, a person can expunge up to five felonies (as long as they are not first, second, or third-degree felonies, sex offenses, or offenses of violence), and an unlimited number of misdemeanors or minor misdemeanors (as long as they are not OVI/DUI or sex offenses).
How long does it take for your record to clear after expungement in Ohio?
In Ohio, the entire expungement process typically takes 3 to 8 months from filing to final clearance, though official sealing of the record usually occurs within 2 to 4 months after the judge signs the order. While court records are destroyed quickly, private background check companies may take up to a year to update their databases, often prompting applicants to use services for faster removal.
People with five felonies could have records sealed under new Ohio expungement law
How much does it cost to expunge your record in Ohio?
In Ohio, expunging or sealing a criminal record typically costs a $50 non-refundable filing fee per application, plus potential additional local court costs of up to $50. For many applicants, this brings the total cost to around $50–$100, though fees for dismissals are often waived, and indigent applicants can request a fee waiver.
How do I know if my expungement went through?
You can contact the court that issued the expungement order to determine if your records have been successfully expunged or sealed. You can visit the courthouse in person, call them, or use an online search or contact tool (if available).
How to expunge your record in Ohio for free?
You can get a free expungement (or record sealing) in Ohio by utilizing free legal clinics, public defender services, or state-funded portals. While legal representation is often free, you may need to pay a court filing fee unless you are granted an indigency waiver.
Is expunging your record worth it?
Expunging a criminal record significantly bolsters employment prospects, mitigating the pervasive impact of background checks conducted by prospective employers. A tainted criminal record often serves as a barrier to employment, unjustly eclipsing an individual's qualifications and merits.
What is the second chance program for felons in Ohio?
Because of that, you may look for a second chance after a conviction. In Ohio, that phrase often refers to reentry support and legal relief, not one single program. Some options focus on job readiness and community support. Others involve legal steps that may reduce certain barriers tied to your record.
Do I have to disclose a felony after 7 years in Ohio?
In Ohio, a felony conviction never automatically falls off your record after 7 years. Employers and licensing boards can ask about and legally view felony convictions of any age. However, you only need to disclose it if specifically asked.
Can a felon get a passport?
Who can and cannot get a passport? According to USA Today, most felons can get a passport without a problem. This is assuming a person is not currently awaiting trial, on probation or parole or otherwise banned from leaving the country.
What is better, expungement or sealing?
The key difference between expunging a person's criminal record and sealing it is that a sealed record still “exists” in both a legal and physical sense, while expungement results in the deletion of any record that an arrest or criminal charge ever occurred.
Who can see sealed records in Ohio?
In addition, certain employers, officials, and agencies are allowed by law to see sealed records on BCI checks: Prosecutors, judges, and police if there are future criminal investigations; Judges considering convictions for sentencing in future crimes; Ohio Justice & Policy Center, v.
What crimes have no statute of limitations in Ohio?
Ohio's criminal statutes of limitation help preserve the integrity of evidence and maintain greater efficiency in the criminal justice system. Heinous crimes, such as murder and arson, have no statute of limitations. Most other felonies and misdemeanors have filing deadlines of between two and 25 years.
Can police still see expunged records?
Police and other law enforcement agencies can access an expunged record only for certain purposes, such as if you apply for a law enforcement job or certification. In fact, if you seek employment as a police officer or similar role, you are required to disclose expunged convictions during the background process.
What's better, a pardon or expungement?
Neither is strictly "better" as they serve entirely different legal purposes. An expungement completely erases or seals your criminal record from the public, making it the best choice for passing background checks. A pardon forgives the crime but leaves the record intact, making it necessary if you need to restore civil rights (like voting or gun ownership) after a felony.
Can I work for FBI with expunged records?
Yes. Some federal agencies, law enforcement roles, and high-security or public-trust positions may require you to disclose expunged records and will see your full criminal history. Expungement still shows that your case was dismissed, which can be helpful, but it does not guarantee approval for these types of jobs.
What cannot be expunged in Ohio?
In Ohio, several types of convictions are permanently ineligible for expungement (or record sealing). The categorical list of non-expungeable crimes includes:
How many times can you get your record expunged in Ohio?
Under current Ohio law, a person may qualify to expunge either an unlimited number of misdemeanor convictions or up to two misdemeanor convictions, depending on the rest of their record and whether they meet the definition of an eligible offender.
How much does it cost to expunge felonies in Ohio?
Each court has their own process and may have their own forms. Contact the clerk of courts to receive the most up to date information. $50 application fee per court to seal/expunge conviction(s) plus up to $50 in court costs. No application fee to seal/ expunge only dismissed cases.
Does your record expunge after 10 years?
A person may file a motion for the expungement of records relating to felony convictions (except for crimes of violence) after 10 years. Any person who is a first offender may file a motion for the expungement of all records and records of conviction for a felony or misdemeanor However, crimes of violence not eligible.
Can I view someone else's record?
How to Access Public Criminal Records. If you want to find information about someone's criminal history, you have several ways to do this. County courts keep court records of criminal cases, and many now let you search online. You usually need to enter the person's name and birth date to find the right records.