Kansas Expungement & Record Sealing Guide

Who Qualifies for Expungement in Kansas?

Kansas allows expungement for many misdemeanor and felony convictions, including arrests without conviction. The waiting period varies based on offense severity.

Who Qualifies

• Arrest without conviction: Eligible after waiting period (based on offense class)
• Class C misdemeanor: 3 years from sentence discharge
• Class A or B misdemeanor: 5 years from sentence discharge
• Non-violent felony: 5 years from sentence discharge
• Certain violent felonies: 10 years from sentence discharge (court has discretion)
• No new felony convictions during the waiting period
• All fines, fees, and restitution paid

Not Eligible

• Murder, rape, and most Class A person felonies
• Sex offenses requiring registration
• DUI (limited — first offense only after 10 years)
• Crimes against children

Step-by-Step: How to Clear Your Record in Kansas

1. Obtain Kansas criminal history — From Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI). Fee: ~$20.
2. File petition — In the district court of conviction. Fee: $176.
3. Serve county attorney and agencies — The county or district attorney has 30 days to object.
4. Hearing — A hearing is scheduled. The court considers whether expungement is in the public interest.
5. Order issued — KBI updates records; all agencies seal their files.

Waiting Periods

• Class C misdemeanor: 3 years
• Class A/B misdemeanor / non-violent felony: 5 years
• Certain violent felonies / DUI: 10 years
• Dismissed / acquitted: Varies by offense class (same waiting periods apply to arrests)

Costs

• Filing fee: $176
• KBI record: ~$20
• Attorney fees: $750–$2,500

Kansas Legal Services offers free help at kansaslegalservices.org.

What Record Clearing Does (and Doesn't) Do in Kansas

After a successful expungement or sealing in Kansas, your record will generally be cleared from:

• Most private employer background checks
• Rental housing background checks
• Most licensing board inquiries (varies by profession)

However, it typically does not affect:

• Federal law enforcement and immigration records
• Military background checks
• Applications for law enforcement positions
• Some professional licensing boards (law, medicine, teaching — varies by state)
• Sex offender registry requirements (in most cases)

Disclaimer: This information is for general educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Laws change frequently. Consult a licensed attorney in Kansas for advice specific to your situation.