What crimes can be expunged in Arkansas?

In Arkansas, most misdemeanors and many felonies can be expunged after the required waiting period. However, certain serious offenses like violent crimes and sex offenses are typically ineligible.

How long is the waiting period for expungement in Arkansas?

Waiting periods in Arkansas vary by offense type. Arrests typically require 1 year, misdemeanors 3-5 years, and felonies 5-10 years from sentence completion.

Can I expunge a felony in Arkansas?

Many felonies can be expunged in Arkansas, but eligibility depends on the specific offense and classification. Class A felonies and certain violent or sexual offenses are generally ineligible.

Will expungement remove my record from background checks?

Yes, once expunged, the record should not appear on most background checks. However, some government agencies and law enforcement may still have access for specific purposes.

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Criminal Record Expungement

ArkansasCriminal Expungement

Learn how to clear arrests and convictions from your criminal record in Arkansas.

Clean Slate State

Arkansas has automatic expungement laws. Some eligible records may be cleared without filing a petition.

At a Glance

$100Filing Fee

YesFee Waiver

YesClean Slate

Check Eligibility →

Legal Terminology in Arkansas

Expungement

sealing

Sealing

sealing

Eligibility Requirements

General requirements for criminal record expungement in Arkansas.

Generally Eligible

Uncharged arrests

Cases with nolle prosequi (within one year)

Dismissed charges

Acquittals

Generally Not Eligible

Never Eligible for Sealing

Capital murder
Treason
Any Class Y felony
Driving while intoxicated (DWI)
Murder in the second degree
Violent felonies
Sex offenses
Cases involving a deadly weapon

Waiting Periods

Dismissed/AcquittedNo waiting period

Waiting periods typically start from completion of sentence, including probation.

The Process

Verify Conviction Eligibility

Confirm your conviction qualifies for sealing

File Petition to Seal

Submit petition to circuit court

Court Review and Decision

Wait for court to process petition

Legal Resources

Arkansas Courts - Criminal Record Sealing

Legal Authority

ACA §§ 16-90-1401 through 16-90-1418

Comprehensive Criminal History Sealing Act of 2013

View source →

ACA §§ 16-90-1409, 1410

Non-Conviction Record Sealing

ACA § 16-90-1405

Misdemeanor Sealing

ACA § 16-93-314 (2011)

Clean Slate Expungement Provision

Eligibility Timeline Calculator

Find out exactly when you can file for expungement

What was the outcome of your case?

Date DA Declined to File

📋 My Cases

Track your expungement progress across multiple cases

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Add your first case to start tracking your expungement progress

Need More Help?

Consider consulting with a legal aid organization or attorney for personalized guidance.

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Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws change frequently. Consult a qualified attorney for advice about your specific situation.