Maryland Expungement & Record Sealing Guide

Who Qualifies for Expungement in Maryland?

Maryland offers both expungement (for non-convictions and certain convictions) and shielding (for misdemeanor convictions). Both block most background check access.

Expungement

Expungement removes the record from most databases. You may qualify if:

• Charges were dismissed, nolle prossed, or resulted in acquittal — eligible 3 years after case close (or immediately with prosecutor's consent)
• You were placed on probation before judgment (PBJ) — eligible 3 years after probation ends
• You successfully completed a diversion program
• The offense is now decriminalized (e.g., marijuana possession up to 10 grams)
• You were convicted of certain eligible misdemeanors and felonies under Maryland's 2021 and 2023 expansions — after a 10-year waiting period

Shielding (Maryland HOPE Act)

Shielding hides misdemeanor convictions from public view (employers and landlords) but law enforcement retains access. You may qualify if:

• The conviction was for an eligible misdemeanor
• At least 3 years have passed since completing your sentence
• You have no new convictions during the waiting period

Eligible shielding offenses include: possession of marijuana, trespass, disorderly conduct, disturbing the peace, malicious destruction under $1,000, and others listed in § 10-301.

Not Eligible

• Crimes of violence (murder, rape, robbery, carjacking, etc.)
• Sex offenses requiring registration
• DUI/DWI convictions
• Domestic violence offenses

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

Expungement Petition

1. Obtain court records — Get a certified copy of the docket entries from the District Court or Circuit Court where the case was heard.
2. Complete Form CC-DC-CR-072C — The Maryland Courts expungement petition form. Available at mdcourts.gov.
3. File with the court — File in the court that handled the case. Fee: $30 (waived if the charge was dismissed or resulted in acquittal).
4. Serve the State's Attorney — The State's Attorney has 30 days to object.
5. Order issued — If no objection (or objection is overruled), all agencies must expunge records within 60 days.

Shielding Petition

File Form CC-DC-CR-114 with the District Court. No filing fee. The court reviews administratively — no hearing required for most eligible misdemeanors.

Waiting Periods

• Dismissed / acquitted: 3 years (or immediate with prosecutor waiver)
• Probation before judgment (PBJ): 3 years after probation ends
• Eligible misdemeanor convictions (shielding): 3 years
• Eligible conviction expungement (2021/2023 expansion): 10 years
• Decriminalized offenses: Immediate

Costs

• Expungement filing fee: $30 (waived for dismissed/acquitted cases)
• Shielding petition: Free
• Attorney fees: $500–$2,000

Maryland Legal Aid offers free expungement and shielding assistance at clinics statewide. Visit mdlab.org for clinic schedules and eligibility.

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

After a successful expungement or sealing in Maryland, 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 Maryland for advice specific to your situation.