Best Gifts for Self-Improvement in 2026: How Expungement Can Transform Your Life

What Is Expungement Under Michigan Law?

“Expungement” refers to the legal process of setting aside a criminal conviction so it no longer appears on your public record. In Michigan, this process is governed by MCL 780.621 and related statutes. When a conviction is set aside, it becomes “non-public,” meaning it’s no longer visible to most employers, landlords, or the general public conducting background checks. However, law enforcement and certain government agencies — like the Michigan State Police — still retain access to the record for limited purposes.

Expungement does not erase history entirely, but it gives you a fresh start. It’s a way to demonstrate rehabilitation, personal growth, and your commitment to becoming a productive member of society. In that sense, pursuing expungement is one of the greatest self-improvement steps a person can take after facing criminal charges in Michigan.

The Michigan Clean Slate Law

In April 2023, Michigan implemented one of the most comprehensive expungement reforms in the nation, known as the Clean Slate Law. This set of changes dramatically expanded who is eligible for expungement and simplified the process for many people. The law also introduced automatic expungement — meaning that certain misdemeanors and felonies are automatically cleared after a set period of time, without requiring an application.

Here’s an overview of what the Clean Slate Law made possible:

• Automatic Expungement: Up to two felony convictions and up to four misdemeanors can be automatically expunged after a waiting period — 7 years for misdemeanors and 10 years for eligible felonies — provided no new convictions occur in the meantime.
• Expanded Eligibility: Many non-violent offenses that were once ineligible for expungement — such as certain controlled substance charges and property crimes — can now be set aside.
• Multiple Offenses: Michigan now allows expungement for multiple convictions, as long as they meet eligibility and time requirements.
• Marijuana Convictions: Low-level marijuana offenses that would be legal today are eligible for simplified expungement. In fact, many of these cases can be granted without a hearing.

How Expungement Transforms Lives

When people talk about gifts for self-improvement, they might think of gym memberships, career coaching sessions, or mental wellness retreats. While all of those can make a difference, none of them can replace the sense of peace and opportunity that comes with a clean slate. Here are some of the most significant benefits that Michigan residents experience after successfully clearing their record:

1. Better Employment Opportunities

One of the biggest hurdles faced by anyone with a criminal record is finding a good job. Even qualified applicants can be turned down after a background check. Once a conviction is set aside, that record will disappear from the public view, giving you a fair shot at competing for employment based on your merit — not your past.

2. Access to Housing

Many landlords run criminal background checks before approving rental applications. With expungement, you can move forward without prior convictions clouding your rental prospects. The law gives you the opportunity to stabilize your life by finding housing that fits your needs.

3. Educational Opportunities

College admissions committees and scholarship organizations often ask about criminal history. An expungement allows you to legally answer “no” to questions about prior convictions in most cases. It opens pathways to higher education and professional certification programs that might have been closed to you before.

4. Restored Rights and Freedoms

While expungement doesn’t automatically restore firearm rights — that’s a separate legal process under Michigan’s firearm restoration laws — it can still impact your ability to apply for professional licenses and clear obstacles that prevent advancement in regulated careers such as teaching, nursing, or real estate.

5. Emotional and Personal Growth

Beyond the tangible legal benefits, the emotional weight that lifts after an expungement is profound. Guilt, embarrassment, and anxiety about the past can hold people back from living their best lives. Having your record cleared provides closure and confidence that you can move forward on your own terms.

Who Is Eligible for Expungement in Michigan?

Eligibility for expungement depends on the nature of your convictions, the time that has passed, and whether you’ve committed new offenses. As of 2026, the Clean Slate Law has made eligibility broader than ever, but there are still limitations.

General Eligibility Requirements

• You must have no pending criminal charges.
• A required waiting period must have passed since the completion of your sentence (including probation or parole).
• You cannot have any new convictions during that waiting period.

Automatic Expungement Eligibility

These are automatically expunged if you meet the criteria:

• Up to four misdemeanors after 7 years.
• Up to two eligible felonies after 10 years.
• No pending criminal cases or recent convictions during the waiting period.

Convictions Not Eligible for Expungement

Even under Clean Slate, some convictions cannot be set aside, including:

• Felonies that carry a possible life sentence.
• Most criminal sexual conduct (CSC) convictions.
• Driving offenses involving alcohol or drugs (such as OWI or DUI) — although in some cases, first-time DUI offenses may now qualify due to recent amendments.
• Felony domestic violence where the victim was a minor.

It’s crucial to have your record carefully reviewed before starting the process. Even seemingly small details can affect eligibility.

The Expungement Process in Michigan

Expungement isn’t instant, but a patient and strategic approach pays off. Here’s what the process generally looks like when filing an application to set aside a conviction in Michigan:

Step 1: Obtain Your Criminal Record

You’ll need an official criminal history record from the Michigan State Police. This ensures all convictions that appear on your record are included in your petition and that the court has accurate information.

Step 2: Determine Eligibility

A qualified attorney can help analyze your record to confirm whether your convictions are eligible. This step prevents wasted time on applications that will be denied due to ineligibility.

Step 3: File the Application

The application is filed in the court where the conviction occurred. It requires proper forms, fingerprints, and service on multiple parties, including the Michigan Attorney General and the prosecutor’s office.

Step 4: Court Hearing

Depending on your record, a hearing may be scheduled. During this hearing, the judge will review your history, consider your conduct since the conviction, and determine whether granting the expungement is consistent with the public welfare.

Step 5: Decision and Record Update

If the court grants the petition, the Michigan State Police and other relevant databases update your record. Once processed, your conviction will no longer be visible to the general public. Congratulations — you’ve just taken a major step forward.

How Long Does Expungement Take?

Timelines vary depending on court schedules, the complexity of your case, and whether there are objections from the prosecutor or Attorney General. In many Michigan counties, expungement applications take between 4 and 8 months from filing to approval. Automatic expungements happen electronically, so those typically take effect as soon as the state systems update your record, sometimes up to 60 days after eligibility.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Not verifying eligibility: Filing before the waiting period expires or for an ineligible conviction can result in automatic denial.
• Failing to serve proper notice: Missing a required mailing to the prosecutor or Attorney General can delay or invalidate your petition.
• Not preparing for the hearing: Judges often ask about personal growth and rehabilitation. Bringing documentation of employment, education, or community service can make a major difference.
• Failing to follow up: An expungement order is only effective once all agencies update their records. Always confirm those changes have been processed.

Why Expungement Is the Ultimate Gift for Self-Improvement

When you invest in your personal growth, you’re doing more than improving your circumstances—you’re sending a message to yourself that you deserve a better future. Expungement reflects that same philosophy. It gives you control over your narrative and removes a huge barrier that might be standing between you and the life you want to live.

It’s also a gift that keeps on giving. Clearing your record boosts your confidence, expands professional horizons, and improves your ability to support your family and community. In 2026 and beyond, thousands of Michigan residents will benefit from the Clean Slate reforms — and there’s no reason you can’t be one of them.

Getting Professional Help with Your Expungement

The Michigan expungement process can be confusing, and one small mistake can cause unnecessary delays. It’s highly advisable to work with an experienced criminal defense attorney who understands the nuances of Michigan’s laws and the filing process. Each county in Michigan may handle petitions a bit differently, and a seasoned attorney can ensure your paperwork and presentation meet local standards.

At Boria Law, we’ve helped countless clients regain their peace of mind by clearing old convictions and restoring their standing in the community. Call (734) 453-7806 today to schedule a free consultation and take the first step toward your clean slate. You can also visit our Michigan criminal lawyer page for more information about how we can help guide you through this life-changing process.

As the new year unfolds, consider giving yourself the best gift of all — a fresh start. Under Michigan’s Clean Slate Law, expungement is no longer an impossible dream. It’s a practical, life-altering step that can help you rebuild your career, secure stable housing, and regain confidence in your future. Like any good self-improvement journey, the process takes time, effort, and perseverance, but the results are worth it.

Don’t wait another year to leave your past behind. If you think you may be eligible for expungement, contact criminal defense lawyer Aaron J. Boria today at (734) 453-7806 to discuss your case. You’ll get real answers, honest guidance, and a clear path forward. The power to transform your life is in your hands — and it starts with one brave step toward redemption.