Can you help get my record cleared in Pennsylvania?

Yes. Please find out about our criminal record erasing services here.

How much does it cost to apply (file) for a pardon or expungement in Pennsylvania?

The rates vary depending on the services required but can be quoted by email or a phone call.

How Much Time Does a Person Have To Wait To Apply For a Pardon?

Two years plus or minus six months is typical for the Board to vote. The Governor then may take a few months to sign. Afterward, filing for expungement may take a few more months. A total of 3 to 4 years is a reasonable estimate.

Can you buy a gun after expungement, or are there additional steps?

After expungement, your Pennsylvania State Police record is cleared. You can legally purchase a gun and apply for a permit unless other restrictions apply.

Does a felony ever go away in Pennsylvania?

No, not automatically. You must apply for a Governor’s pardon first. After receiving the pardon, you can then file for expungement to remove the felony from your record.

Can expunged records still show up on background checks?

If expungement is properly completed, your record should no longer appear. However, some private databases may still show outdated data. Contact us if you notice your record appearing.

How to clear your
criminal record in PA

How it Works

An old Pennsylvania criminal record shouldn’t hold you back. With 40+ years of experience, Attorney Walmer and our team help simplify the process, guiding you every step of the way to give you the best chance at success.

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How It Works
A Clear Process for Moving Forward

STEP 1
Research Your Record

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STEP 2
Talk With an Attorney

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STEP 3
Move Forward With a Plan

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Charged or convicted of a crime in Pennsylvania?

Trying to get a job, rent an apartment, or apply for a loan can be tough. It’s even harder with a criminal record holding you back. If you’re wondering how to clear your criminal record in PA, the good news is you have options. While the process isn’t always simple, it is legal, possible, and can give you a real second chance. Here’s how to legally erase your past criminal record. Here is how it works.

Getting a Governor’s Pardon in Pennsylvania

A pardon is an official act of forgiveness from the Governor of Pennsylvania, typically recommended by the Board of Pardons.

Anyone with a criminal conviction in PA can apply for a pardon. It is an opportunity to add a new page to your life and move on from an old one. A pardon erases the conviction for minor offenses as if they never occurred. It doesn’t matter how long ago it was or what you were convicted of. It’s a fresh start to almost anything.

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Receiving an Expungement in PA

Expungement is the legal process of permanently removing criminal charges or convictions from your public record.

Even if you were acquitted, charges can remain on your public record until they are removed through the expungement process in PA. If you have a misdemeanor or felony conviction, you need a pardon before it can be expunged. These records can impact your chances of getting a job, renting an apartment, and securing a loan. Find out more about expungements, and clear up your past.

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Pardons for Cannabis Convictions

Under Pennsylvania’s marijuana pardon initiative, certain cannabis convictions may qualify for expedited review.

“Minor offenses should not carry life sentences.” – Gov. Tom Wolf

People with marijuana convictions should not be punished for life, and their quality of life shouldn’t suffer long term. Record Eraser provides the expertise, knowledge, and ability to expedite your request to clean up your record fast.

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Getting Your 2nd Amendment Rights Back

If a felony or certain misdemeanors caused you to lose your firearm rights, you may still be eligible to have them restored.

While some felonies restrict firearms rights for obvious reasons, a criminal offense like an M1 conviction (first-degree misdemeanor convictions) from a second offense DUI can also cause rights to be taken. Whatever the case, you may still be eligible to restore your firearms rights under certain circumstances even if your criminal record isn’t pristine.

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It all starts with knowing what can be cleared, and when.

Get a free copy of your Pennsylvania criminal record and schedule a no-cost consultation with an attorney who specializes in record clearing options including pardons, expungements, and clean slate.

Let us help you understand how to get the clean slate you deserve and erase your past:

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FAQs

Can a felony be expunged in Pennsylvania?: No, felony convictions cannot be expunged unless you first receive a pardon from the Governor. Expungement is only available for certain offenses, such as summary offenses after five years without any arrests or for individuals over 70 who have remained crime-free for 10 years. If you were convicted of a felony and want it removed, the first step is to apply for a pardon through the Pennsylvania Board of Pardons. If your pardon is granted, you can then file for expungement in court.
Does an expungement restore my firearm rights?: No, an expungement does not restore firearm rights. If you lost your ability to own a firearm due to a conviction, you will need a pardon from the Governor before you can petition to restore your firearm rights. Expungement only removes records from public access but does not change legal restrictions related to felony and misdemeanor convictions.
What is a pardon, and why do I need one?: A pardon is official forgiveness from the Governor of Pennsylvania, which removes a conviction from your record. A pardon is necessary if you want to remove a felony or certain misdemeanor convictions that cannot be expunged otherwise. Many people apply for pardons to improve their employment opportunities, regain firearm rights, or remove barriers to housing and professional licensing.
Can a pardon help restore my gun rights?: If you lost your firearm rights due to a felony or certain misdemeanor convictions, a pardon may be the only way to restore them.
How do I apply for a pardon?: To apply for a pardon, you must submit an application to the Pennsylvania Board of Pardons. Because the process is lengthy and requires strong supporting documents, many applicants choose to work with an attorney to ensure their application is as strong as possible and that it is tracked throughout the entire 3-4 year journey.
Can expunged records still show up on background checks?: If expungement is completed properly, your record should no longer appear. However, some private databases may need updating. Contact us if you have any question.

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