Cincinnati Expungement Attorney 

Erasing past mistakes can bring relief, peace of mind, and new opportunities. At Funkhouser Law, we know the long-term impact a criminal record can have on your life, from limiting job prospects to affecting housing applications. With over 15,000 cases handled and a history of serving the community, we are here to simplify your path toward a fresh start. Whether you live in Walnut Hills, Clifton, or communities surrounding Cincinnati, Attorney Funkhouser and his experienced team are ready to help you with the expungement process.

Contact Funkhouser Law today to begin your expungement process.

Why Choose Us for Your Expungement Case?

Expungement and sealing cases require careful attention to detail, knowledge of Ohio law, and experience navigating the legal process. 

Here’s why Cincinnati residents trust Funkhouser Law for expungement:

• Successful Case Results in Cincinnati – Decades of experience have equipped us to approach each case precisely and confidently, allowing for successful case outcomes.  
• Former Prosecutor Perspective – Attorney Funkhouser’s previous experience as a prosecutor gives him unique insights into the legal system and the sealing process, allowing him to craft strong and effective strategies.
• Convenient Consultations – Whether juggling a busy work schedule or simply needing to understand your options, our firm offers virtual consultations to help you take the first step.
• Dedicated to the Community – With roots in neighborhoods like Mount Adams and Hyde Park, we take pride in serving our diverse and vibrant community.

What is Expungement?

Expungement refers to the legal process of removing or sealing your criminal record, making it inaccessible to the general public. Having a clean record after expungement can be a game-changer for employment opportunities, housing approvals, and other aspects of your life.

There’s often confusion about the difference between sealing a record and complete expungement. While sealing prevents most entities from viewing your record, expungement completely erases the record as though it never existed. Ohio law primarily uses the phrase “sealing a record,” as Ohio's criminal records cannot be expunged except in very limited circumstances.

Changes to the Expungement Process in Ohio

In 2018, Ohio expanded the eligibility criteria for record sealing. Previously, individuals were restricted to one lifetime felony sealing application and two misdemeanor sealing applications. Now, more people can qualify for multiple expungements and for offenses previously excluded. These changes reflect Ohio’s commitment to giving individuals a second chance, but understanding how to apply under these new rules requires expert legal guidance. Funkhouser Law stays updated on these evolving laws to ensure our clients have the best chance at success.

Do You Qualify for Expungement?

The expungement process includes several strict eligibility criteria. These include factors like time elapsed since the conviction and the type of offense. 

Some general qualifications are:

• Completion of Sentence – You must fulfill all aspects of your sentence, including probation, parole, or community service.
• Waiting Period – A designated amount of time must pass after your conviction before you apply, typically one to five years, depending on the level of offense.
• Offense Eligibility – Not all crimes qualify. Several offenses, outlined below, are automatically rejected for sealing.

Offenses That Cannot Be Sealed

Unfortunately, some crimes cannot be sealed under Ohio law, including but not limited to:

• First- or second-degree felonies.
• Violent crimes such as rape or aggravated murder.
• Sexually oriented offenses.
• Traffic-related offenses like OVI.

If your offense falls into one of these categories, we can still explore other avenues for relief.

Expungement FAQs

How long does the expungement process take in Ohio?

The expungement process can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the complexity of your case and the court’s schedule.

Can multiple offenses be sealed at once?

Yes, Ohio law allows for multiple sealing applications depending on the nature of your offenses and recent changes to state guidelines.

Will my record still be visible to law enforcement after expungement?

Yes, law enforcement, prosecutors, and judges in Ohio can access sealed records under specific circumstances, such as during new criminal investigations or court proceedings. Additionally, certain employers and licensing boards may also view sealed records if the position or license has a direct and substantial relationship to the offense.

What are the costs associated with expungement?

Court filing fees vary by jurisdiction. At Funkhouser Law, we provide clear and transparent pricing to help you plan accordingly.

Can I get my record expunged if I have a pending case?

No, your record cannot be sealed if you have other cases pending. It’s essential to resolve all other charges first.

How does an expungement benefit my employment opportunities?

Many employers conduct background checks, and an expunged (or sealed) record means your past is no longer visible in public searches, significantly improving job prospects.

What is the Ohio Diversion Program?

The Ohio Diversion Program is a unique alternative to traditional prosecution for certain low-level offenders that occurs while a case is pending. If eligible, participants can complete a rehabilitation or correction plan rather than going to prison or facing a conviction. Upon successful program completion, charges may be dismissed, potentially qualifying you for record sealing. Funkhouser Law has extensive experience guiding clients through this program, ensuring you can complete it successfully and move forward with expungement.

Take the First Step Toward a Clean Slate

At Funkhouser Law, we know how much is at stake when you’re working to seal your record. Whether you’re pursuing new career opportunities or hoping to move beyond past mistakes, our team is with you every step of the way. Explore your options with a free consultation and see how our decades of experience defending Cincinnati residents can make a difference for your future.