In Washington state, individuals with a criminal record may be eligible for expungement. Expungement, also known as vacation of a criminal record, allows individuals to erase or seal their prior convictions.
Seeking expungement can be a path toward a fresh start for those with a criminal history. That is why it is worth exploring which crimes are eligible for expungement in Washington and the process to pursue this option.
Eligible offenses
Washington law offers the opportunity to expunge certain types of crimes, allowing individuals to move beyond their past mistakes. The eligibility criteria depend on the type of offense and the specific circumstances. Eligible crimes often include:
- Misdemeanor convictions
- Certain Class B felonies
- Deferred prosecution cases
- Vacated convictions
Regardless of the nature of the crime, expungement conditions often entail completing any court-ordered requirements and remaining crime-free for a certain period of time.
Ineligible offenses
Not all offenses are eligible for expungement in Washington. Some crimes, such as serious violent felonies and certain sex offenses, are typically not eligible for expungement. Additionally, individuals with multiple convictions or ongoing legal issues may face challenges in pursuing expungement.
The expungement process
If you believe you are eligible for expungement, you must follow a specific process to clear your record. This starts by reviewing and confirming your eligibility, followed by completing any court-ordered obligations. You can then file a petition to the relevant county court and attend a scheduled hearing. After making your case for why the court should expunge your record and proving your rehabilitation, it is a matter of waiting for the final decision.
In a study conducted by the National Institute of Justice, 9 out of 10 members of the study group who sought expungement were able to completely clear their criminal records. This study shows that, even in cases where expungement might be a lengthy process, it is one worth pursuing.