A past conviction in Greene County shouldn’t hold you back from better jobs or housing. Missouri’s expungement law offers a real second chance, but the process can feel intimidating with its specific steps, waiting periods, and paperwork. Don’t let the legal system overwhelm you. We’re here to break it all down in plain English. We’ll walk you through who qualifies, how the expungement process works right here in Springfield, and what to expect. This guide will empower you to take control of your future, whether you file yourself or decide to partner with a criminal lawyer greene county mo.

Key Takeaways

Expungement in Missouri means sealing your criminal record from public access. Once expunged, you generally can legally state you have no record (with a few job-related exceptions).
Eligibility hinges on the offense and your history: most non-violent misdemeanors and some felonies can be expunged after a waiting period (3 years for felonies, 1 year for misdemeanors) once all sentences and fines are completed. Serious felonies (e.g. Class A, dangerous felonies, sex offenses, certain assaults) cannot be expunged. DUI/DWI convictions are excluded from the new law, though a first-offense DWI may be expunged under a different Missouri statute after 10 years.
You can expunge up to 2 felonies and 3 misdemeanors in your lifetime (plus any number of minor infractions) under current Missouri law. Each case requires a petition in the court where you were charged or convicted, usually filed in the Circuit Court for that county.
The step-by-step process in Greene County involves filing a petition (with a ~$250 surcharge, which a judge can waive if you can’t afford it), serving copies on all relevant agencies (police, prosecutor, etc.), then attending a court hearing. By law, the judge must issue a decision within 6 months of filing. In practice, Missouri expungements typically take about 2–6 months from start to finish.
Common pitfalls include filing too soon (before the waiting period ends), not naming or serving all parties with records of your case (which can nullify the expungement for those records), or trying to expunge ineligible offenses.
An expungement restores most civil rights (voting, jury duty, holding public office) and even firearm rights in many cases. However, law enforcement and courts can still see the sealed record, and you must disclose expunged offenses in certain applications (e.g. law enforcement jobs, professional licenses).

What Exactly is an Expungement in Missouri?

Expungement is a legal process that seals a criminal record, making it closed to the public. In Missouri, an expunged record is not visible on standard background checks and is treated as if the arrest or conviction never occurred (for most purposes). This means if your record is expunged, you generally do not have to disclose that offense when asked by employers, landlords, or schools. There are important exceptions: for example, if you apply for certain professional licenses, law enforcement or sensitive jobs, you must disclose expunged offenses in those cases. But for everyday life, expungement offers a clean slate – past charges or convictions are sealed from public view and can only be reopened by court order.

Does an Expungement Completely Erase Your Record?

For state purposes, yes – your civil rights are fully restored as if the offense never happened. This includes restoring voting rights and even gun rights that were lost due to the conviction. Missouri law directs the State Highway Patrol to request the FBI purge the record from federal databases. However, the FBI and federal agencies are not guaranteed to remove it immediately. So, while Missouri treats an expunged conviction as completely removed, the record may still exist in some federal or private databases. It’s wise to keep a copy of your expungement order in case you ever need to prove the record was sealed.

Do You Qualify for an Expungement in Missouri?

Missouri expanded its expungement law in recent years, so many offenses are now eligible – over 1,900 different crimes, from old misdemeanors to certain felonies. But there are clear limits and excluded offenses. Here’s how to know if you might qualify:

Completion of Sentence: You must have completed all terms of your sentence at least X years ago (see waiting periods below). This means finishing any incarceration, probation, or parole, and paying all fines or restitution in full. If you’re still on probation or owe money on the case, you cannot expunge yet.
Clean Record Since: After completing the sentence, you need a crime-free period: 3 years with no new convictions for a felony, or 1 year with no new convictions for a misdemeanor or infraction. In other words, you must demonstrate you’ve stayed out of trouble for the required time. (Minor traffic tickets don’t count against you, but new criminal charges will reset the clock)
Offense Type Eligibility: Not all crimes can be expunged. Missouri law excludes certain serious offenses, including:
- Class A felonies (the most serious felony level).
- Dangerous felonies (crimes involving violence or harm as defined by law).
- Offenses requiring sex offender registration, and most crimes in the sexual offenses chapter.
- Felonies involving death (any offense where someone’s death is an element of the crime).
- Felony assault and felony kidnapping, as well as any domestic assault (misdemeanor or felony).
- Felony weapons offenses: Missouri specifically bars expungement of most unlawful use of a weapon felonies (e.g. armed criminal action), though some older unlawful use of weapon misdemeanors might qualify after law changes.
- Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) offenses: If you hold a CDL or were driving a commercial vehicle during the offense, any traffic offense is ineligible. (This prevents expungement of violations by truck/bus drivers under CDL rules.)
- Repeat Offenders: While not a specific “offense,” note that you cannot expunge a repeat intoxication-driving offense or others beyond the lifetime limits (discussed below). Each person only gets one shot per offense type.

Special Rule – DWI and Intoxication Offenses: Driving while intoxicated (DWI) convictions (and related offenses like boating while intoxicated) are NOT eligible under the main expungement law. However, Missouri has a separate law (RSMo § 610.130) that allows a one-time expungement of a first DWI misdemeanor after at least 10 years have passed since the conviction, if you have a completely clean record in those 10 years. In short, if you got one DWI and have been law-abiding for a decade, you can petition to expunge that DWI under the special DWI expungement statute. But if you have multiple DWIs or a felony DWI, expungement isn’t available. Also, if you had a commercial driver’s license at the time, a DWI cannot be expunged.
(For simplicity, the rest of this guide focuses on expunging records under Missouri’s main expungement law §610.140, which covers most other crimes. If you need a DWI expunged, consult an attorney about RSMo § 610.130’s requirements.)
Lifetime Limits: Missouri limits how many offenses one person can expunge in their lifetime. As of 2025, you can expunge at most two felony offenses and three misdemeanors (that had potential jail time) in total. Infractions (minor violations with no jail time) don’t count toward these limits – you can expunge any number of infractions. There are a couple of nuances: if multiple offenses happened in one single incident (one course of conduct), the law lets you bundle them in one expungement and counts it as one offense for the limit. But generally, think of it as “2 felonies + 3 misdemeanors max” over your life. Choose your expungements wisely if you have several old convictions. (Expunging an arrest that didn’t lead to a charge does not count toward your limits either.)
Other Criteria: The law also says the court must find that expunging you is consistent with the public welfare and that you are not a threat to public safety. In practice, if you meet the basic requirements (enough time has passed, no new crimes, and the offense isn’t excluded), courts usually presume expungement is warranted. The prosecutor can object and try to show you’re still a threat or that the victim objects, but those situations are uncommon. It’s still important to be honest, show you’ve turned your life around, and have things like steady employment or community involvement if you’re asked about it at a hearing.

Why Hire an Experienced Greene County Criminal Lawyer?

Even if the expungement process seems straightforward, Missouri’s legal system has its complexities. A simple mistake on a petition or a missed deadline can get your case thrown out, forcing you to start over. Hiring an experienced Greene County lawyer who understands the local courts and prosecutors can make all the difference. They handle the details so you can focus on your future. A good attorney ensures your petition is filed correctly, represents you at the hearing, and addresses any objections from the prosecutor, giving you the best possible chance at a fresh start.

A Broader Scope of Criminal Defense

When you hire a lawyer who specializes in criminal law, you’re not just getting someone who knows about expungements. You’re getting an advocate with a deep understanding of the entire criminal justice system. Top criminal defense firms in Springfield handle everything from minor traffic violations to serious felonies. This wide-ranging experience is invaluable because it gives them perspective. They’ve seen how different charges are prosecuted and defended, which helps them anticipate potential issues with your case and build a stronger strategy from the beginning. Their knowledge protects you from unforeseen complications.

Types of Criminal Cases Handled

An experienced criminal defense attorney has likely managed a wide variety of cases. Their work often includes defending clients against charges like DWI/DUI, drug possession, assault, theft, and other misdemeanors and felonies. This breadth of experience means they are familiar with the specific statutes, evidence, and defense tactics relevant to many different situations. Even if your goal is simply to expunge an old charge, having a lawyer who has defended that very charge gives you a significant advantage. They understand the context of your original case and can better argue why sealing it is justified.

The Importance of a Strong Defense for Any Charge

Every legal matter deserves serious attention, no matter how minor it may seem. A dedicated lawyer provides a strong defense by meticulously reviewing your case, protecting your rights, and ensuring you are treated fairly throughout the process. This client-focused approach means they take the time to understand your situation and your goals. Whether you’re facing a new charge or trying to clear an old one, their job is to be your champion. They work hard to achieve the best possible outcome, providing personalized attention every step of the way.

Leveraging a Prosecutor’s Insight

Some of the most effective criminal defense attorneys are former prosecutors. Having worked on the other side, they have a unique insight into how the state builds and pursues cases. This experience is a powerful tool. A lawyer with a prosecutor’s background can often anticipate the arguments the state will make, identify weaknesses in their case, and negotiate more effectively on your behalf. This inside knowledge allows them to craft a proactive strategy designed to counter the prosecution’s moves before they even happen, putting you in a much stronger position.

Defining the Goals of Your Representation

A great lawyer-client relationship starts with clear communication and shared goals. Before any work begins, a good attorney will sit down with you to understand what you hope to achieve. Are you trying to get a charge dismissed, negotiate a plea, or clear your record with an expungement? Being “results-driven” means your lawyer’s strategy is tailored to your specific objectives. This commitment to personalized service ensures that you are not just another case file. When looking for legal help, seek out an attorney who prioritizes your goals, like Chad G. Mann, whose approach is built on understanding and fighting for his clients’ needs.

How to Get Your Record Expunged in Greene County

Expungement is a court process – essentially, you are filing a civil lawsuit against the state agencies that hold your records, asking the court to seal those records. In Greene County (which includes Springfield), expungement petitions are handled in the Circuit Court (Greene County Circuit Court) as civil cases. Below is a step-by-step walkthrough of the process, from preparing your petition to the final hearing, with local tips for Greene County.

Step 1: First, See if You’re Eligible

Before anything else, make sure you are eligible under Missouri law (see the criteria above). Double-check that your offense is not on the non-expungeable list and that you’ve completed all probation or sentences. Mark the date when you completed your sentence (including probation) and when you paid all fines/restitution; from that date, ensure the required time has passed (3 years for a felony, 1 year for a misdemeanor). Tip: If it’s borderline, it’s safer to wait a little longer than file too early. Filing even one week too soon will likely get your petition dismissed on a technicality (and you’d have to refile later).

Also, gather basic information about your case(s). You will need details like the case number, the date of arrest or charge, the county and court of conviction, and the specific charge. If you don’t have your old paperwork, you can look up cases on Missouri’s Case.net website or call the Greene County Circuit Clerk for help retrieving your case info. It’s crucial to correctly identify each charge you want expunged.

If you have multiple convictions in different counties, remember you’ll need to file separate petitions in each county’s court for those offenses. (For example, a misdemeanor in Webster County would be a separate expungement case from a felony in Greene County.) However, if your charges were all in Greene County, you can include them together in one petition there.

Step 2: Get Your Paperwork in Order

Missouri has standard expungement petition forms you can use. In Greene County, you can obtain the forms online from the Missouri Courts website or in person at the Circuit Court. The key form is the “Petition for Expungement (Section 610.140, RSMo)”. Greene County’s Circuit Clerk office links to these forms on their website for self-represented individualsgreenecountycourts.orggreenecountycourts.org.

When filling out the petition, you will need to provide:

Your full legal name and personal details (date of birth, address, last four of SSN, etc.).
Details of the offense(s) you want expunged: the specific charge, the date of arrest or charge, the county and court, and the case number for each. List every charge very clearly. If it was an arrest that didn’t result in charges, list the arrest date and agency.
A statement that you meet the eligibility requirements (the form has checkboxes for things like “I have no new convictions in the past X years,” “All obligations of the sentence are completed,” etc.). By signing, you are swearing these are true under penalty of perjury. Make sure you can honestly check all those boxes before filing.

Include a Fingerprint Card: Missouri courts require a fingerprint card to be submitted with an expungement petition. This is used to verify your identity and retrieve your criminal history from the state repository. You can get fingerprinted at the Greene County Sheriff’s Office or Springfield Police Department; ask for a standard FD-258 fingerprint card (the court may have these forms as well). The fingerprint card must be a hard copy (inked or live-scan printed on card) – digital prints are not accepted for this purpose. Once you have your fingerprints, attach the card to your petition. The court will forward it to the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s central repository to confirm your record.

Defendants/Respondents: In the petition, you must list as “Respondents” (defendants) all the agencies or officials that have your records. This usually includes: the law enforcement agency that arrested you (e.g. Springfield Police Department, Greene County Sheriff, or Missouri State Highway Patrol), the prosecutor’s office that handled the case (e.g. Greene County Prosecuting Attorney), the court where the case was held (e.g. Greene County Circuit Court), and the Missouri State Highway Patrol’s Criminal Records Repository (they maintain statewide records). If you were on probation or in prison, you’d also list the Missouri Department of Corrections, and if the offense was driving-related, you’d list the Department of Revenue (for driver’s license records). Check the petition form’s boxes for each applicable agency and write in any others involved in your case. This step is critical – the expungement order will only bind the parties you list and serve. If you leave someone out, that agency’s records won’t be sealed.

Other forms: Along with the petition, you may need a Civil Case Information Sheet (some counties require a coversheet for new cases – Greene County may help fill this out for you) and, if you cannot afford the fees, a “Motion to Proceed as a Poor Person” (fee waiver). The fee waiver is an affidavit stating your income and that you can’t pay the costs; if the judge approves it, the $250 surcharge and other fees can be waived. Otherwise, be prepared to pay the filing fees when you submit your petition.

Step 3: File Your Petition in Greene County

Once your petition and attachments are ready, it’s time to file the case. Expungement petitions in Greene County must be filed in the 31st Judicial Circuit (Greene County) Circuit Court, located in the Greene County Judicial Courts Facility in Springfield. If you have an attorney, they will e-file the case for you. If you’re filing on your own (pro se), you can file in person at the civil filing window of the Circuit Clerk’s Office (or potentially by mail – call the Clerk to confirm procedures for pro se filings).

Filing fees: Missouri law imposes a $250 surcharge on expungement petitions (this is on top of the standard civil filing fee, which in Greene County is roughly $100+). So expect the total cost to file to be around $300-$400 including service fees, unless you get a fee waiver. If you are low-income, submit the fee waiver form at the same time; if approved, the court will let you file without paying. Otherwise, you must pay the fees when you file. (Note: The $250 expungement surcharge can be waived if the judge finds you’re indigent. Don’t hesitate to request a waiver if you truly cannot pay.)

When you file, the Clerk will assign a case number for your expungement (it will be a civil case number). Make sure to keep this for your records. The Clerk will also issue a Summons for each of the defendants you listed (essentially a notice to those parties that an expungement case has been filed).

Step 4: Notify the Right People

After filing, Missouri law requires that you serve a copy of the petition (and the court-issued summons) on every party you listed in the petition. This is a formal step to notify the prosecutor, police agency, Highway Patrol, etc., and give them a chance to respond or object.

How to serve: When you file in Greene County, ask the Clerk about service options. Often, the simplest method is Certified Mail service by the Clerk – you provide addresses, pay a mailing fee (around $10 per agency), and the Clerk will send out the summons and petition via certified mail for you. You’ll need a good mailing address for each agency (you can usually find these online or ask the Clerk for commonly used addresses; e.g., MSHP Records Division in Jefferson City, Greene County Prosecutor’s Office in Springfield, etc.). If you’re granted a fee waiver, the court may cover these mailing costs.

Alternatively, you can choose to have the Sheriff or a special process server deliver the documents, or you can even do it yourself by certified mail. If you serve by certified mail on your own, use return receipt (green card) and then file those receipts with the court as proof of service. Proper service is important – the judge cannot expunge records of an agency that wasn’t notified.

In Greene County, after you file, the prosecuting attorney’s office will automatically get notice from the Clerk, but you still need to ensure all other parties (police, state agencies) get served. Tip: Double-check about 2 weeks after filing that each defendant has either signed for the certified mail or otherwise been served. You can track the certified mail or check Case.net for service returns. If any are unserved, you may need to get a new summons issued and try again.

Once served, each defendant has 30 days to file any objection with the court. In many expungement cases, no one objects – especially for old minor convictions – but by law they must be given the opportunity. The prosecutor’s office is the most likely to object if there’s an issue (for example, if they believe you’re not actually eligible or a victim has concerns).

Step 5: What to Expect at Your Hearing

Court hearing: Missouri law states that if an objection is filed, the court shall hold a hearing within 60 days of that objection; if no objections, the court may hold a hearing after 30 days from service. In Greene County, you will almost always have a brief expungement hearing, even if uncontested. The court will set a hearing date and notify you (or your attorney) and all the defendants. Expect this to be at least 1–2 months after filing, given the minimum 30-day notice period for the defendants. (You can check your case status on Case.net for a scheduled hearing date or call the clerk after a few weeks.)

At the hearing, the judge will review your petition and any evidence or testimony. If no agency objected in writing, the hearing may be quick and straightforward. The judge might ask you a few questions to confirm you meet the criteria (e.g., “Have you had any other convictions since?” or “Did you complete probation successfully?”). In some cases, a representative of the prosecutor’s office or an agency might attend to state they have no objection or to raise a concern. If an objection was filed (say, the prosecutor thinks you got the dates wrong and filed too early, or a victim wants to be heard), the judge will give them time to speak. You should be prepared to briefly tell the judge why you are seeking expungement – for example, explain how the old record is holding you back, and show that you’ve turned your life around and expungement is “in the interests of justice”. This is usually not an adversarial hearing; it’s often informal and many judges are supportive if you clearly qualify.

Possible outcomes: If the judge is satisfied you meet all the requirements, they will likely announce that the expungement is granted and sign an Order of Expungement. Congratulations – that’s what you want! If there was a dispute about eligibility, the judge might decide to deny the expungement. Denials can happen if, for example, the court concludes you filed too soon or your offense is on the ineligible list. If denied, don’t despair: Missouri law lets you re-file after 1 year has passed since a denial (giving you time to fix whatever issue, like waiting longer). You also have the right to appeal a denial, but that can be complex and is something to discuss with an attorney.

Step 6: Your Record is Expunged. Now What?

If your expungement is granted, the court will send a certified Order of Expungement to all the parties (agencies) that were listed and served. Each agency is then legally required to seal/close the records they have of the case. For example, the court’s own file will be closed and confidential, the police department will update their records, and the Missouri State Highway Patrol will update the statewide criminal history database. The Highway Patrol will also forward the expungement to the FBI to request removal from national records.

Keep proof: Obtain a copy of the signed expungement order for your records (the Clerk can provide this). It’s your proof if an expunged record ever erroneously shows up somewhere.

Legal effect: Once expunged, legally you can answer “no” when asked if you have been convicted of that offense on job applications, housing applications, etc. Missouri law specifically says after expungement, you cannot be held guilty of perjury or false statement for denying the arrest/conviction, with one big caveat: if you are in a criminal proceeding later or a related civil case, you may need to disclose it to the court if asked. And as mentioned, certain applications (for example, applying to be a police officer, or a teacher, or for a state professional license, or for a job with a bank or insurance company) do require disclosure of expunged convictions. These are generally sensitive positions where the law carves out an exception. The expungement order will list the exceptions, or they are found in statute (Section 610.140.9). If you’re unsure, consult your attorney about whether you must disclose an expunged record for a particular application.

Law enforcement and future cases: Even after expungement, police, courts, and prosecutors can access the sealed record for limited purposes. For instance, if you are later charged with a new crime, an expunged conviction can still be considered a prior offense for enhancing sentencing. Expungement doesn’t make the prior completely invisible to the justice system; it mainly helps you in the eyes of the public and employers. That said, an expunged conviction will not show up on standard background checks or court public databases. In Missouri, an expunged case is treated as if it “never happened” in terms of public records.

Mistakes to Avoid When Filing for Expungement

While Missouri’s expungement process is very doable, especially for a single old charge, there are some common mistakes that can delay or derail a petition. Be mindful of these pitfalls:

Filing Too Early: Calculate your waiting period from the date you completed your sentence (end of probation or payment of fines). Even a few months shy of the 1-year or 3-year mark will lead to dismissal. It’s safer to wait a bit longer than risk filing too soon. If your petition is dismissed for timing, you typically must wait 12 months to refile.
Not Including All Records/Agencies: You must list and serve every agency that has a record of your case. A common mistake is forgetting one (for example, not listing the city police department because you assumed the county would cover it). If an entity isn’t named, the expungement order won’t apply to them – meaning that record might still show up. Double-check: police (city or county), Sheriff (if different), Missouri State Highway Patrol, the court, the prosecutor, and any state department (Revenue or Corrections) if applicable.
Incomplete or Incorrect Forms: Simple errors like a missing case number, wrong dates, or not signing the petition can cause delays or rejections. Be thorough. If you’re unsure of information, use resources like Case.net or contact the Circuit Clerk’s office for help retrieving the correct info.
Service Issues: Failing to properly serve each party (or not providing correct addresses) is another pitfall. If the court file shows a party wasn’t served, the judge typically can’t proceed until they are. Use certified mail or sheriff’s service to get proof of delivery. Track the service status and follow up on any unclaimed mail quickly (you may need to have the sheriff hand-serve in that case).
Expunging the Wrong Things: For example, trying to expunge an out-of-state or federal offense using Missouri law – that won’t work (Missouri expungement only covers Missouri state offenses). Also, if you have multiple convictions, ensure you don’t exceed the lifetime limit in one go. If you list too many offenses in one petition beyond what’s allowed, the petition could be denied or require amendment.
Not Addressing All Charges in a Case: If you had multiple charges in the same case (like one felony and one misdemeanor), and only one is eligible, you might be able to expunge the eligible charge. But clarify in your petition which charge(s) you seek to expunge. Expungement won’t erase charges that are ineligible, even if they were part of the same incident.
Assuming It’s Automatic: Some people think their record will be cleared automatically after so many years. Missouri does not do automatic expungements (except for certain very specific situations like some juvenile records). You must file a petition to get an expungement – it won’t happen without taking action.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How long do you have to wait to expunge a conviction in Missouri?
A: The waiting period is 3 years after completion of your sentence for a felony, and 1 year for a misdemeanor, municipal ordinance violation, or infraction. The clock starts after you’ve finished all conditions (served any time, finished probation, and paid fines). During that waiting period, you must also not have any new convictions. Note that for a first-time DWI misdemeanor, the wait is longer – 10 years from the date of conviction, under the separate DWI expungement law.

Q: Which crimes cannot be expunged in Greene County, Missouri?
A: The expungement law is statewide, so the same exclusions apply in Greene County as anywhere in Missouri. Crimes that CANNOT be expunged include: Class A felonies; “dangerous felonies” (like murder, first-degree assault, armed criminal action, etc.); any crime requiring sex offender registration (such as rape or child molestation); any offense where someone was killed; most felony assaults and any domestic violence offenses; felony kidnapping; and felony weapon offenses (except older/unlawful use of a weapon misdemeanors). In addition, intoxication-related driving offenses (DWI/DUI) and intoxication manslaughter/assault are not eligible under the general law. Those can only be expunged via the special first-time DWI provision (if applicable). Also, if you have a commercial driver’s license (CDL), any motor vehicle offense you committed in a commercial vehicle cannot be expunged. Always check the statute or ask a lawyer if your specific charge is on the prohibited list, because the law lists many specific sections that are excluded.

Q: How much does it cost to get a criminal record expunged in Missouri?
A: The typical cost to file an expungement in Missouri is around $250 to $300. The law requires a $250 surcharge on expungement petitions, and there’s also a filing fee (varies by county, roughly $100). Additionally, there may be costs for serving each party (~$10 per certified mailing if done by the court). So if you pay everything, it could total about $300-$350. If you hire an attorney, legal fees are additional (attorneys in Missouri might charge a flat fee anywhere from $1,000 and up for an expungement, depending on complexity). However, you can ask the court to waive the $250 surcharge and other fees if you cannot afford them. This requires filing a fee waiver form and showing financial hardship. Many people successfully get fees waived, so cost should not deter you from filing if you’re eligible.

Q: Do I need a lawyer to file for expungement in Greene County?
A: No, you are allowed to file pro se (on your own) and many people do. The courts even provide standard forms and instructions to help. In Greene County, the Circuit Clerk’s office can provide the petition form and explain procedural steps (though they cannot give legal advice). That said, expungement law has technical requirements, and a lawyer can ensure everything is done correctly. An experienced Springfield attorney will know how to draft the petition, which agencies to serve, and will represent you at the hearing, making the process smoother. Hiring a lawyer might be most beneficial if your case is unusual or if you’re nervous about court. But for a straightforward case (like a single old misdemeanor), you can often handle it yourself by carefully following the instructions. Tip: If you start the process and get confused, you can still consult or retain a lawyer at any point.

Q: How long does the expungement process take once I file in court?
A: Typically about 2 to 6 months from the date you file your petition until you get a final order. Missouri law requires the court to issue a decision within 6 months of filing, so it shouldn’t go longer than that. In Greene County, much of the timeline depends on court scheduling and the 30-day response window for the agencies. Here’s a rough timeline: Filing to hearing is usually ~6–8 weeks if no one objects (30 days minimum for notice, plus time to get on the docket). If there’s an objection, the hearing might be closer to the 60-day mark. After the hearing, if granted, the order is often entered that day or within a few days. Then it may take a few weeks for all agencies to update their records after they receive the order. Overall, plan on a few months. It’s wise to start the process well ahead of any deadline (for example, if you want your record expunged before job hunting season, file as early as possible).

Q: Will an expunged record still show up on background checks?
A: Once expunged, the record is closed to the public, so it should not appear on standard background checks that employers or landlords run. The Missouri courts and state criminal repository will respond to inquiries (like a background check) as if no record exists. That said, in the digital age, some old data might linger in private databases. The expungement order compels Missouri agencies to update their files, and the state will inform the FBI to remove it from national records. Most of the time, after expungement, people find their record is effectively gone from public view. If you do stumble on your expunged case in some online search, you can contact that website or service with proof of the expungement and request removal. Importantly, even after expungement, law enforcement and courts can access the record for limited purposes (like if you’re arrested again, they see the prior for context), but private employers and the public cannot. And you cannot be penalized for failing to acknowledge an expunged record, with very narrow exceptions (see above).

Q: What if my expungement petition is denied?
A: If the judge denies your petition, Missouri law says you must wait 12 months before filing again for the same offense. Use that time to address the reason for denial. Common reasons include filing too early or the offense being ineligible. If it was too early, mark your calendar and reapply after the proper time. If it was ineligible (for instance, you discovered it was a violent felony not covered), then unfortunately you won’t be able to expunge that particular charge under current law. You might consult an attorney to double-check, but the law’s exceptions are pretty firm. In some cases, people appeal a denial to a higher court, but appeals can be costly and success is not guaranteed unless there was a clear legal error. The good news is, if you clearly meet the requirements, denials are rare. Most expungement denials can be fixed by waiting a bit longer or correcting a mistake in the paperwork and then re-filing.

Need Help? Talk to a Greene County MO Criminal Lawyer

Expunging your criminal record can be life-changing, giving you a fresh start in Springfield and beyond. While the process is doable on your own, you don’t have to navigate it alone. We’re here to help. At The Law Office of Chad G. Mann, LLC, we assist Springfield and Greene County residents with clearing their records and other legal challenges. We can evaluate your eligibility, handle the paperwork, and represent you in court to make the expungement process as smooth as possible.

Contact our Springfield office at (417) 842-8679 to schedule a consultation. We’ll gladly answer your questions and help you take the next step toward a clean record. You can also reach out through our website – let’s discuss how we can work together to put your past behind you.

(Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Every case is different. For advice on your specific situation, please consult an attorney licensed in Missouri. Using this guide or contacting us does not establish an attorney-client relationship.)

Last updated: September 17, 2025

Finding the Right Legal Partner

While you can file for an expungement on your own, the legal system has specific rules and deadlines that can be tricky. A single mistake on a form or a missed deadline could get your petition dismissed, forcing you to wait another year to refile. This is where working with an experienced attorney can make all the difference, turning a potentially stressful process into a manageable one. Think of them as your guide, ensuring every step is handled correctly from start to finish. Choosing the right legal partner isn’t just about hiring someone who knows the law; it’s about finding an advocate who understands your goals, communicates clearly, and is committed to helping you achieve a fresh start. A good lawyer will help you avoid common pitfalls and give you the confidence that your case is in capable hands.

Look for Proven Credentials and Reputation

When you start your search, focus on finding an attorney with a strong background in Missouri criminal law. Although an expungement is technically a civil case, it deals directly with criminal records, so a lawyer who understands the nuances of the criminal justice system has a distinct advantage. Look for specific experience handling expungements in Greene County, as local court procedures can vary. A reputable attorney’s website and professional profiles should highlight this expertise. Beyond their stated credentials, check out client reviews and testimonials to get a real sense of their professionalism and success rate. Taking the time to research an attorney’s background is a crucial step in finding a qualified professional who has the right skills and proven track record to effectively handle your case.

Understanding Costs and Payment Options

Financial concerns shouldn’t prevent you from getting the help you need. A transparent law firm will be upfront about costs and offer flexible options.

Free Consultations

Many law firms offer a free initial consultation, which is an invaluable opportunity to discuss your situation without any financial commitment. Use this meeting to get a clear picture of your eligibility for expungement, the specific steps involved, and a realistic timeline for your case. This is also your chance to see if the attorney is a good fit for you personally. Pay attention to how they listen and respond to your questions. Do they explain things clearly and make you feel comfortable? A consultation should be a supportive, no-pressure conversation that provides you with the information needed to make a confident decision. Don’t hesitate to schedule a meeting to get your questions answered and find the right advocate for your corner.

Affordable Rates and Payment Plans

The cost of legal help is a valid concern, but a trustworthy attorney will be transparent about their fees from the very beginning. Many lawyers offer flat-fee arrangements for services like expungement, which means you’ll know the total cost upfront with no surprise bills later. This clarity allows you to budget effectively and focus on the process itself. If paying the full amount at once is difficult, ask about flexible payment plans. A firm that is willing to work with you on a payment schedule demonstrates a genuine commitment to making legal services accessible. The right legal partner will understand your financial situation and collaborate with you to find a practical path forward.

Client Service and Communication

A successful expungement process involves more than just legal expertise; it requires a supportive partnership built on clear communication. Look for a firm that is client-focused and results-driven, meaning they prioritize your needs and keep you informed every step of the way. You should never feel like you’re in the dark about the status of your case. A great attorney will provide regular updates, take the time to explain complex legal terms in plain English, and be responsive when you have questions. You deserve to feel like a priority, not just another case file. This commitment to open communication and personalized attention is the hallmark of excellent client service and is essential for a positive experience.

Serving Southwest Missouri

Hiring a lawyer who is deeply familiar with the local legal landscape can provide a significant advantage. An attorney who regularly practices in Greene County and throughout Southwest Missouri will have a working knowledge of the 31st Judicial Circuit Court’s specific procedures and expectations. They are more likely to be familiar with the court staff, judges, and prosecuting attorneys, which can help your case proceed more efficiently. This local insight is an invaluable asset that can’t be found in a textbook. Furthermore, a local lawyer is more accessible for in-person meetings, making communication easier. When you choose an attorney who provides dedicated local legal services, you are partnering with someone who has direct, on-the-ground experience in the very court system that will decide your future.

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