Missouri’s expungement law under Section 610.140, RSMo is changing starting January 1, 2025. Under the new law, you'll be able to expunge up to three misdemeanors and two felonies—a great opportunity for a fresh start! However, please note that filing before January 1 may impact your eligibility under the new guidelines, so we encourage you to carefully consider your timing.

Expungement is Missouri’s way of “clearing a conviction.” When you get an expungement, the court orders that your conviction be hidden from public view. You may apply for expungement by filing an application in the court where you were found guilty. If the court orders an offense to be expunged, you no longer need to disclose it in most circumstances.

Clearing your record removes many barriers that often come with having a criminal record. An expungement gives you more opportunities to obtain jobs, housing, and educational opportunities. Expungement of an offense allows you to answer “NO” on most applications when asked about that offense.

Many but not all criminal convictions can be expunged. Some crimes that are not eligible are Class A felonies, offenses that require registration as a sex offender, most gun crimes, and felonies where death is an element. Most drug crimes can be expunged. 

The cost of filing a case includes a filing fee (usually about $100), and service fees (usually about $50). If you cannot afford to pay, you may apply to have the court waive these fees. 

First, you file an application where you were convicted. After the case is filed, all government agencies that might have your records are served (notified). The Prosecutor has 30 days to object. If there is an objection, there will be a hearing. If there is no objection, the judge will likely hold a hearing. Then, the judge makes a decision.