If you’ve been arrested or charged in Maryland, an expungement can help erase certain records from public view, improving your chances for employment, housing, and education. Maryland law allows people to expunge dismissed cases, acquittals, certain probation before judgment (PBJ) outcomes, and even some convictions after a waiting period.
What Expungement Means in Maryland
An expungement removes qualifying criminal or traffic records from public databases, including background checks and the Maryland Judiciary Case Search. Once expunged, employers and landlords generally cannot access those records, giving you a genuine opportunity to move forward.
Expungement doesn’t destroy every document but seals them from public access. Courts, prosecutors, and law enforcement retain limited internal access, but for most practical purposes, the record no longer exists.
Who Qualifies for Expungement in Maryland
Eligibility depends on how your case ended:
- Acquittal or Dismissal: You can file for expungement immediately after the case ends, though the court typically enforces a short waiting period in case of appeals.
- Probation Before Judgment (PBJ): Most PBJ cases can be expunged after three years from disposition or when probation ends, whichever is later.
- Nolle Prosequi or Stet Docket: These are prosecutorial decisions to drop or indefinitely suspend charges, often eligible after three years.
- Certain Convictions: Since recent reforms, Maryland allows expungement of select nonviolent misdemeanors—such as theft under $1,500 or disorderly conduct—after a 10- to 15-year waiting period.
Our attorneys can confirm eligibility and calculate your specific waiting period before filing.
How the Maryland Expungement Process Works
The expungement process involves several key steps:
- Filing the Petition: Your lawyer files a petition with the court where the case was heard. Each charge must be listed separately.
- State Review and Objection Period: The prosecutor and law enforcement agencies have 30 days to object. If no objection is filed, the court may automatically grant expungement.
- Hearing (If Needed): If an objection occurs—often for repeat offenses or public-safety reasons—your attorney presents arguments and evidence supporting your petition.
- Order of Expungement: Once approved, the court sends the order to all relevant agencies, which must remove the record within 60 days.
Proper filing and documentation are crucial. Even small errors, like incorrect case numbers or missing signatures, can delay approval.
Common Reasons Expungement Petitions Are Denied
Expungement isn’t guaranteed. Maryland courts may deny a petition if:
- You have pending criminal charges.
- The offense isn’t eligible under current statutes.
- The waiting period hasn’t expired.
- You violated probation or received a new conviction during the waiting period.
In some cases, your attorney can file a motion for reconsideration or explore other remedies such as shielding, which limits who can view your record even if expungement isn’t possible.
Expungement vs. Shielding: What’s the Difference?
While both remove public access, they operate differently.
- Expungement erases records from public databases entirely.
- Shielding limits visibility of certain convictions—usually minor misdemeanors—to employers and landlords, but leaves the record accessible to law enforcement.
Shielding applies primarily to convictions for low-level offenses such as trespassing, disorderly conduct, or possession of drug paraphernalia.
Why Hire a Lawyer for Record Expungement
Although Maryland offers online filing tools, having an attorney can save time and prevent costly mistakes. At Hartman Attorneys at Law, we:
- Evaluate which charges qualify for expungement or shielding.
- Calculate accurate waiting periods and file petitions correctly.
- Respond to State objections and represent you in hearings.
- Ensure all agencies comply with the court’s expungement order.
Our firm’s direct-access model means you work with Attorney Christian Hartman from start to finish. As a former prosecutor, he understands how records move through Maryland’s criminal justice system and how to make sure yours are truly cleared.
Can Expungement Restore My Rights?
Expungement helps with employment and housing, but it doesn’t automatically restore firearm rights or professional licenses suspended due to conviction. Your attorney can advise you on whether additional petitions—such as a gun rights restoration or an administrative appeal—are available after expungement.
Take the First Step Toward a Clean Slate
A criminal record doesn’t have to define your future. If you’re wondering whether you qualify for expungement in Maryland, contact Hartman Attorneys at Law today. We’ll review your record, explain your options, and file the right petitions to help you move forward with confidence. Call now for a free consultation—your second chance starts here.
FAQ: Maryland Criminal Record Expungement
1. How long does expungement take in Maryland?
Most expungements take around 90 days from filing to completion, depending on court schedules and whether the State objects. Once approved, agencies have up to 60 days to remove your records from public databases. Complex or multi-case petitions may take several additional months.
2. How much does it cost to expunge a record in Maryland?
Filing fees are typically $30 per case, though certain outcomes—like acquittals or dismissals—can be expunged without cost. Additional fees may apply for certified copies or multiple petitions. An attorney helps streamline filings, minimize errors, and ensure all eligible records are covered in one process.
3. Can I expunge more than one case at a time?
Yes. You can file petitions for multiple eligible cases as long as each qualifies individually under Maryland law. Consolidating related cases may simplify the process and reduce overall costs. Your attorney can advise on the best strategy to ensure every eligible record is cleared properly.