Michigan Expungement Laws 2026
Michigan expungement and record-sealing laws: eligibility, waiting periods, and how to clear a criminal record in Michigan.
Michigan allows certain criminal records to be cleared or sealed. The relief is called "Set Aside (Expungement)", governed by Mich. Comp. Laws § 780.621.
Automatic record clearing in Michigan
Yes — Michigan clears or seals many eligible records automatically, without a separate petition. Michigan sets aside (expunges) eligible convictions by petition and automatically clears many records under its Clean Slate law.
At a glance
| Detail | Michigan |
|---|---|
| Relief available | Set Aside (Expungement) |
| Statute | Mich. Comp. Laws § 780.621 |
| Automatic clearing? | Yes — many eligible records clear automatically |
| Waiting period | Automatic for many; 3-7 years for petitions |
| Eligible records | Up to 3 felonies and unlimited misdemeanors |
| Process | Automatic under Clean Slate; petition for others |
Who is eligible
Up to 3 felonies and unlimited misdemeanors.
How the process works
Automatic under Clean Slate; petition for others.
Source and last verified
Statute: Mich. Comp. Laws § 780.621. Last verified: 2026-08-04. Laws change — confirm the current rule with the Michigan records authority before acting.
All 50 states
Frequently Asked Questions
What is record clearing called in Michigan?
In Michigan, the relief is called "Set Aside (Expungement)", governed by Mich. Comp. Laws § 780.621.
How long do I wait before clearing a record in Michigan?
Automatic for many; 3-7 years for petitions.
Who can clear a record in Michigan?
Up to 3 felonies and unlimited misdemeanors.
Does Michigan clear records automatically?
Yes — under Michigan law, many eligible records are sealed or cleared automatically without a petition. Michigan sets aside (expunges) eligible convictions by petition and automatically clears many records under its Clean Slate law.