Do Misdemeanors Go Away?
No, misdemeanors do not automatically go away, but they may be expunged or sealed under certain conditions.
How a Misdemeanor Can Go Away
- Expungement – In many states, you can petition to have a misdemeanor removed from your record after a waiting period.
- Sealing – Some states allow misdemeanors to be sealed, making them inaccessible to most employers and background checks.
- Time-Based Restrictions – Some misdemeanors may have limited impact after several years, though they remain on record.
When Misdemeanors Stay on Your Record
- If You Don’t Seek Expungement – A misdemeanor typically stays on your record indefinitely unless legally removed.
- Certain Offenses Are Ineligible – Some crimes, like DUI or violent offenses, may not qualify for expungement.
- Repeat Offenses Can Make Expungement Harder – Multiple misdemeanors may extend waiting periods or prevent record clearing.
Bottom Line
A misdemeanor does not automatically disappear, but expungement or sealing may remove it from public records. Eligibility depends on state laws, offense type, and time since conviction.
