How to Seal or Restrict a Criminal Record in Maryland

Having a criminal record in Maryland can affect your ability to find employment, secure housing, or pursue educational opportunities. Fortunately, Maryland law allows certain individuals to seal or restrict access to their criminal history through expungement or shielding. Understanding how these processes work is the first step toward a fresh start.

Expungement in Maryland

Expungement is the legal process of removing a criminal charge or conviction from your record. Once expunged, the information is not accessible to the public. You may qualify for expungement if:

• Your case was dismissed, acquitted, or resulted in a not-guilty verdict.
• You received probation before judgment (with some exceptions).
• The charge was decriminalized under Maryland law.
• A certain amount of time has passed since the conviction for specific eligible offenses.

The waiting period varies depending on the type of case but typically ranges from three to ten years. In some situations, immediate expungement may be available.

Shielding a Record in Maryland

Shielding is different from expungement. Instead of being completely removed, shielding makes the record inaccessible to the general public but still available to certain agencies, such as law enforcement. You may be able to shield certain misdemeanor convictions after a waiting period, typically three years from the completion of the sentence.

Why Legal Help Matters

The expungement and shielding processes involve strict deadlines, eligibility rules, and legal paperwork. Mistakes in filing can delay or even prevent relief. Having a knowledgeable attorney review your situation ensures you understand your options and take the right steps toward clearing your record.

At The Law Office of J. Wyndal Gordon, P.A., we can provide legal assistance to the Baltimore public. Whether you are pursuing expungement or shielding, we are committed to helping you navigate the process and work toward a brighter future.