Michigan may automatically set aside some old felonies after ten years and eligible misdemeanors after seven years. Check the important exceptions.
Automatic does not mean universal
Michigan State Police began its automatic set-aside system in 2023. In qualifying cases, the program may set aside up to two eligible felony convictions after ten years, and qualifying misdemeanor convictions after seven years. The felony period generally runs from sentencing or release from imprisonment, whichever is later. Pending charges, new convictions, and offense exclusions can prevent automatic relief.
What to check before moving forward
- Check your public record through the Michigan State Police ICHAT system.
- Identify each offense’s statutory classification and whether it falls within automatic exclusions.
- Confirm the relevant ten-year or seven-year time frame and any subsequent record.
- If a conviction appears eligible but is still public, follow MSP guidance for reporting a possible error.
What can complicate the answer?
First-offense OWI, assaultive offenses, certain crimes of dishonesty, and other specified categories are excluded from automatic processing even when application-based relief might remain possible.
Michigan’s rules are fact-specific. For an individual review, start the MichiganFelony.com inquiry or call 800-892-1185.
Related Michigan resources
Frequently asked questions
Is automatic expungement free?
There is no court application required for a conviction the state automatically sets aside.
Can a felony become automatic after ten years?
Some eligible felonies may, but not every felony qualifies and the system generally has a two-felony limit.
How do I check my public record?
Michigan State Police provides the ICHAT public criminal history search.
Michigan government references: Attorney General expungement assistance · State Police set-aside guidance · Michigan Courts. These references are for general information; verify current law and forms before taking action.
There may be a path forward.
Tell us a little about your case. An attorney can determine what the relevant Michigan and federal laws allow.
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