How do I expunge a criminal record in Ohio?

Ohio record relief is governed by Ohio Revised Code § 2953.32 (sealing) and § 2953.33 (expungement), substantially expanded by SB 288 (April 2023).

1. Sealing vs. Expungement

Sealing: record hidden from public access; available to law enforcement and certain employers (peace officers, schools, etc.).

Expungement: complete deletion of record (added/expanded by SB 288 for certain offenses).

2. Eligible Offenses

All misdemeanor convictions except disqualified categories.

Most felonies of the fourth and fifth degree.

Up to 2 third-degree felonies (with limits).

Multiple convictions are now eligible (SB 288 removed prior "1 felony" cap).

3. Excluded Offenses

Mandatory prison felonies (F1, F2 typically excluded).

Sex offenses with registration duty (ORC Ch. 2950).

Offenses of violence, except those reduced or specified.

OVI (DUI) convictions and traffic offenses.

Convictions involving a victim under age 13 (with exceptions).

4. Waiting Periods (after final discharge — completion of all sentence terms including probation)

Misdemeanor: 1 year.

One F4 or F5: 3 years.

Two felonies: 4 years.

Three to five felonies: 5 years.

Bail forfeiture / no conviction: immediately upon dismissal.

5. Procedure

File Application for Sealing/Expungement in convicting court.

Filing fee: $50 (sealing) or $50 (expungement) — waivable for indigents.

Prosecutor has 60 days to object; hearing typically held.

Court considers public interest, rehabilitation, and offense nature.

6. Effect

After sealing, you may answer "no" to "have you been convicted" on most employment applications (with exceptions for law enforcement, schools, and bonded positions).

This is legal information, not legal advice.