What Convictions Cannot Be Expunged in Pennsylvania?
September 26, 2025
Having a criminal record in Pennsylvania can impact many areas of your life, from securing employment to obtaining housing. Criminal records are often publicly accessible, meaning potential employers, landlords, and others can easily see them. For this reason, you may want to pursue expungement, a legal process that limits access to your criminal record. An experienced West Chester criminal defense lawyer can guide you through this process and provide the advice you need.
What Is Expungement in Pennsylvania?
Expungement does not completely erase your criminal record. Instead, it hides certain records from most public searches. After a successful expungement, you generally do not need to disclose the expunged offense when applying for jobs, housing, or other opportunities.
Pennsylvania law allows for the expungement of:
- Arrests
- Charges
- Convictions
If you were never convicted of a crime, your records may be immediately eligible for expungement.
What Crimes Can Be Expunged in West Chester, Pennsylvania?
Pennsylvania has strict expungement laws, and the list of eligible offenses is more limited than in many other states. Unless specifically allowed by law, a conviction or charge will remain on your record.
Crimes and offenses eligible for expungement in Pennsylvania include:
- Charges that did not lead to a conviction.
- Summary offenses, if you have been free of arrests for five years.
- Misdemeanor convictions, if you are 70 years or older and have been free from criminal supervision for 10 years.
- Certain felony convictions, meeting the same requirements as above.
- Certain diversionary programs, such as those for small-scale marijuana offenses.
While some felony convictions may qualify, violent crimes, sexual offenses, and certain serious felonies are generally ineligible. Some felonies may only be expunged if the individual has received a pardon from the governor. Convictions involving drug possession or theft may have a higher likelihood of eligibility, whereas most misdemeanor convictions are easier to expunge.
How to Expunge a Charge in West Chester, Pennsylvania
To begin the expungement process:
- Obtain your criminal record from the Pennsylvania State Police.
- File a Petition for Expungement with the Court of Common Pleas in the county where the charges occurred.
- Include details about the charges, case outcomes, and reasons why expungement is warranted.
A hearing may be scheduled, where a judge will review your petition. If approved, the court issues an expungement order to the relevant agencies.
Working with an experienced Pennsylvania expungement lawyer can help ensure your petition is accurate, timely, and properly supported, increasing the likelihood of a successful outcome.
Why Legal Advice Matters
Expungement laws in Pennsylvania are complex. Even minor decisions—like accepting a plea deal—can have long-term consequences. Before pleading guilty or taking any action, consult a qualified criminal defense lawyer to fully understand your rights and options.
Contact a West Chester Criminal Defense Lawyer at the Law Offices of Heather J. Mattes
If you have questions about expungement or your criminal record, the Law Offices of Heather J. Mattes can help. A West Chester criminal defense lawyer provides guidance and representation. Call 610-431-7900 or contact us online today to schedule a free consultation. Protect your future and your rights with experienced legal assistance. Located in West Chester, Pennsylvania, we serve clients in Chester County, Bucks County, Delaware County, Lehigh County, Montgomery County, and Philadelphia County.