Who Qualifies for Expungement in Alabama

What Can Be Cleared (And What Can't)

Alabama expungement law focuses on outcomes and offense type. Many people qualify even if they were once told "no." Generally eligible matters often include charges that were dismissed, no-billed, or ended in a not-guilty verdict; certain misdemeanors after a clean waiting period; and, in limited instances, some non-violent felony convictions after completing all sentence terms and remaining arrest-free for a specified time. Offenses that typically cannot be expunged include violent felonies, serious sex offenses, crimes involving children, and select high-harm offenses. Christopher D. Salter, P.C. will review your docket to confirm exactly where your case fits under current Alabama law.

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Waiting Periods and Conditions You Must Meet

Eligibility is more than the charge-it's also timing and compliance. Typical requirements include: finishing probation and paying all fines and fees; having no pending cases; and observing a waiting period (often several years for convictions; shorter for dismissals or acquittals). Each incident generally needs its own petition, and Alabama limits may apply to how many conviction matters you can expunge. Our Foley office maps your timeline so you know when you can file with confidence.

Documents You'll Need (We'll Help Gather Them)

Expect to collect certified court records (case action summary and disposition), proof you completed all sentence terms, government ID, and fingerprints for background checks, plus filing and administrative fees set by statute. Christopher D. Salter, P.C. obtains what the court requires from Baldwin County clerks and agencies so your petition is complete the first time.

Special Situations: Diversion, Youthful Offender, Juvenile

If your case ended in pretrial diversion or a deferred program, you may be eligible once conditions are met. Youthful Offender adjudications and juvenile records follow different rules and filing paths; some can be sealed or expunged more quickly. We'll evaluate these edge cases and advise whether expungement or another remedy is the best route.

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Free Eligibility Review

Unsure where to begin? Send your case numbers and county. Christopher D. Salter, P.C. will provide a straightforward eligibility check and a step-by-step plan tailored to Baldwin County courts.