If you have a criminal record in Minnesota, you may be feeling discouraged, worried, or anxious about the impact it can have on your life. The good news is that Minnesota law allows for certain criminal records to be sealed or expunged, meaning they are no longer publicly accessible. An expungement can help you move forward and put your past behind you.

 

If you want to explore the possibility of having your record sealed, consult with a knowledgeable Minneapolis, Minnesota criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. At Keyser Law, we understand the stress and uncertainty you may be facing, and we are here to help. Contact us today to discuss your options and take the first step towards sealing your criminal record.

 

What Does It Mean to Seal or Expunge a Criminal Record?

 

Expungement is the legal process of sealing a criminal record from public view. Although sealing a record does not erase it entirely, it does make it inaccessible to most employers, landlords, and on background checks. Sealed criminal records are generally not visible to the public. However, certain government agencies may still have access to them under specific conditions. In Minnesota, there are two types of expungement: judicial expungement, which is granted by a court, and statutory expungement, which is allowed under Minnesota law.

 

Who Qualifies to Seal Their Record in Minnesota?

 

Not everyone in Minnesota is eligible to have their criminal record sealed. To qualify, you must meet certain criteria, including:

 

• Dismissed charges or cases resolved in your favor.
• Certain petty misdemeanors, misdemeanors, gross misdemeanors, and even felonies (if statutory requirements are met).
• Completion of sentence, probation, and required waiting periods.

 

During the waiting period, maintaining a clean record is imperative. The courts will also consider factors such as rehabilitation, public safety, and the hardship caused by the record when determining eligibility.

 

Types of Cases That May Be Eligible

 

Several types of cases may be eligible for record sealing or expungement in Minnesota, such as:

 

• Non-conviction records: These include arrests or charges that were dismissed or resulted in acquittal.
• Juvenile records: Many juvenile offenses are eligible for expungement.
• Certain convictions: Some drug offenses, thefts, and low-level felonies may qualify after a waiting period.

 

Expungement eligibility depends on the specific charge and sentence, so consulting with a skilled Minneapolis, Minnesota criminal defense attorney from Keyser Law  is in your best interest.

 

 

The Minnesota Expungement Process

 

Sealing a criminal record in Minnesota requires determining your eligibility and gathering all relevant court records. With the help of one of our Minnesota criminal defense attorneys, you’ll then draft and file a petition with the appropriate court, explaining why expungement is warranted. All paperwork must be complete and accurate, as errors can delay or jeopardize your petition. Your petition must be served on all involved government agencies, including law enforcement and prosecutors.

 

A hearing will follow, during which a judge considers the public’s interest alongside your right to privacy. If the judge grants the expungement, the record is typically sealed after 60 days.

 

How Long Does It Take to Seal a Record?

 

The timeline for sealing a criminal record in Minnesota can vary, but on average, it takes about 4 to 6 months from filing to final order. The waiting periods for specific offenses are as follows:

 

• Petty misdemeanors: 2 years
• Gross misdemeanors: 4 years
• Felonies (if eligible): 5 years

 

Delays may occur if paperwork is incomplete or if objections are raised during the process.

 

Benefits of Sealing a Criminal Record

 

Sealing a criminal record in Minnesota offers several valuable benefits. It can significantly improve your job prospects, as most private employers won’t have access to sealed records. It also opens doors to better housing options and increases the likelihood of receiving financial aid since landlords and financial institutions are often more open to working with individuals whose records have been expunged.

 

Expungement can also bring peace of mind by reducing the stress of background checks and help restore your reputation by minimizing the stigma associated with a criminal history. For young people and first-time offenders, sealing a record can be especially transformative, offering a meaningful second chance and a clearer path forward.

 

 

Why You Need a Minneapolis, MN Criminal Defense Lawyer

 

Navigating the expungement process in Minnesota can be complex and requires strict adherence to deadlines and paperwork. Having an experienced Minnesota criminal defense lawyer from our firm by your side can make all the difference.

 

Your attorney can evaluate your eligibility, present a compelling case to the court, and handle all communication with government agencies. Judges have discretion in deciding whether to grant an expungement, and your lawyer’s advocacy can be the key to success. At Keyser Law, P.A., we have helped hundreds of clients in Minneapolis and across Minnesota seal their criminal records and reclaim their futures.

 

Contact Keyser Law Today for Help Sealing Your Record

 

If you’re living with a criminal record in Minneapolis, Minnesota, you may have options to clear your name and start fresh. Sealing your record can open doors in your personal and professional life, but you don’t have to face the process alone. Contact Keyser Law, P.A. today at (612) 338-5007 for a confidential consultation and take the first step towards putting your past behind you.