Adult Records
Your Past Doesn't Have to Control Your Future
Washington law allows many adult criminal convictions to be vacated — effectively erasing them from your public record. Better jobs, better housing, and peace of mind start with a clean record. We handle the entire process.
Who Qualifies
Many Adult Convictions Can Be Vacated Under Washington Law
Washington courts recognize that people change. Whether you were convicted of a misdemeanor or a felony, there may be a path to clear your record. Eligibility depends on the type of offense, how much time has passed, and whether you have met all court-imposed conditions.
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Misdemeanor Convictions
Most misdemeanors can be vacated once you have completed your sentence, paid all fines and restitution, and have had no new criminal charges for the required waiting period — typically three to five years.
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Class B Felony Convictions
Many Class B felonies are eligible for vacating after completing all sentencing conditions and remaining conviction-free for ten years. Certain violent offenses and sex crimes are excluded.
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Class C Felony Convictions
Class C felonies generally have a shorter waiting period of five years after completing all sentencing requirements. Many clients qualify sooner than they expect.
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Drug Convictions
Drug possession convictions may have additional pathways to vacating, particularly following recent changes in Washington law. We analyze your specific charge to identify the best route.
How It Works
The Expungement Process, Step by Step
Vacating an adult conviction requires a formal court petition. The court will review your criminal history, your conduct since the conviction, and whether vacating serves the interests of justice. Having an attorney who knows this process makes a significant difference in the outcome.
- We pull your complete criminal history and assess eligibility for each conviction
- Identify the strongest legal basis for your petition — state statute, case law, or recent legislative changes
- Prepare and file the formal petition to vacate with the appropriate court
- Handle all communication with the prosecutor's office and address any objections
- Represent you at the vacating hearing before the judge
- Confirm your record is updated in state and national databases after the court order
Why It Matters
A Clean Record Changes Everything
A criminal conviction creates invisible barriers that affect every part of your life. Vacating your record removes those barriers and gives you the fresh start you have earned. Here is what changes when your conviction is vacated.
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Employment Without Fear
Once vacated, you can legally answer "no" when asked about criminal convictions on job applications. No more explaining, no more being passed over before you get a chance.
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Better Housing Options
Landlords run background checks. A vacated conviction will not appear, opening up rental options that were previously closed to you.
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Professional Licensing
Many professional licenses require a clean record. Vacating your conviction can clear the path to careers in healthcare, education, finance, and other regulated fields.
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Personal Peace of Mind
The weight of a criminal record affects more than paperwork. Knowing your past is behind you — legally and publicly — brings a relief that changes how you move through the world.
Common Questions
Expungement Questions, Answered
What is the difference between expungement and vacating?
In Washington, the process for clearing a conviction is called vacating. Once vacated, the conviction is removed from your public record — which is what most people mean by expungement.
Which convictions can be vacated?
Most misdemeanors qualify after completing your sentence and a waiting period of typically three to five years. Many Class C felonies qualify after five years and Class B felonies after ten, once all sentencing conditions are complete. Certain violent offenses and sex crimes are excluded.
Can I say I have no conviction after my record is vacated?
Yes. Once vacated, you can legally answer "no" when asked about criminal convictions on job applications.
What does the vacating process involve?
We pull your complete criminal history, identify the strongest legal basis for your petition, file it with the appropriate court, handle communication with the prosecutor's office, represent you at the hearing, and confirm your record is updated in state and national databases after the order.
