Grand Rapids Expungement Lawyer

Clearing your criminal record can open doors to better employment, licensing, housing, and peace of mind. For more than 30 years, Attorney Bruce Alan Block has helped clients throughout Michigan — including right here in Grand Rapids and Kent County — successfully set aside convictions and move forward with confidence.

Michigan’s expungement laws have expanded significantly, allowing many residents who were previously ineligible to qualify today. Whether you are seeking to remove an old misdemeanor, set aside a felony, or pursue a first-time DUI/OWI expungement, Attorney Block guides you through the process with efficiency and precision.

Michigan Expungement Lawyer – Understanding the Process

An expungement (legally called “setting aside a conviction”) is a formal court process that removes a conviction from public criminal databases used for background checks. Once granted, the arrest and conviction no longer appear in employer searches, rental screenings, or most standard public record systems.

Michigan’s updated laws now allow more people to clear their record than ever before. Today, nearly one in six Michigan residents has a felony record, and many are eligible for relief under the current statute.

Eligibility Under Michigan’s Expanded Laws

• One DUI/OWI conviction may qualify for expungement
• Unlimited misdemeanors may be set aside (with certain restrictions)
• Up to three felonies may be removed, depending on the offense type
• Specific waiting periods apply before filing
• Violent crimes, CSC, and certain serious offenses remain ineligible

Attorney Block carefully reviews each client’s record to confirm eligibility and determine the strongest path forward.

Benefits of Expungement in Grand Rapids & Throughout Michigan

Setting aside a conviction offers meaningful advantages in daily life. Expungement can help you:

• Qualify for better employment and professional licenses
• Improve housing opportunities and eliminate unfair rental denials
• Restore certain civil rights, including firearm rights in some cases
• Become eligible for student aid, grants, and apprenticeships
• Reduce restrictions when traveling internationally

A cleared record not only protects your future — it also restores dignity and peace of mind.

OWI & DUI Expungement – Special Rules Apply

Michigan allows certain first-time OWI convictions to be expunged, but with strict limitations.

You are not eligible if:

• You have more than one DUI/OWI on your record
• The offense involved serious injury or death
• You were driving a commercial vehicle at the time of the offense
• You held a CDL during the incident

It is important to note that DUI convictions are not part of the automatic expungement program. Even if eligible, you must file a formal petition and appear at a hearing. With more residents qualifying each year, proper filing is essential to avoid delays or denials.

How Long Does Michigan Expungement Take?

In most cases, expungements in Michigan are resolved in approximately 60–90 days, depending on court scheduling and whether any objections are filed. Kent County courts often move efficiently when the case is properly prepared.

Attorney Block ensures that all documents, notices, and required reports are submitted on time to prevent unnecessary delays.

Out-of-State Residents With Michigan Convictions

If you live outside Michigan, you can still pursue expungement. Many courts allow Zoom hearings, and all required forms, fingerprints, and reports can be handled by mail or electronically. Distance rarely prevents clients from clearing their Michigan record.

The Michigan Expungement Process – Step by Step

The expungement process is detailed and must be completed accurately. Mistakes can delay your case for months. Attorney Block manages each step, including:

• Confirming eligibility under the updated Michigan statute
• Preparing all petitions, forms, affidavits, and notices
• Coordinating fingerprints and criminal history reports
• Gathering proof of rehabilitation, employment, and community involvement
• Responding to objections from the prosecutor or Attorney General
• Presenting your case at the hearing for the best possible outcome

With decades of experience, Attorney Block knows exactly how to present a persuasive petition and what Kent County judges typically look for in expungement cases.

Why Hire a Grand Rapids Expungement Attorney?

Attempting expungement on your own can be overwhelming and time-consuming. Working with an experienced attorney provides critical advantages:

• Accurate filing the first time — no missing documents or errors
• Legal strategy that increases your likelihood of approval
• Local experience with Kent County courts and procedures
• Clear communication and guidance throughout the process
• Faster, more predictable results

If you are ready to pursue a clean slate, Attorney Block is here to help you through every step.

Related Legal Services

If you need assistance with other matters, Attorney Block also represents clients in:

• OWI/DUI Defense
• Traffic Ticket Defense
• Criminal Defense
• Drug Offenses
• Violent Crime Defense
• White Collar Crimes

Frequently Asked Questions

Contact Attorney Bruce Alan Block today to review your eligibility and begin the expungement process.