Answers
Pennsylvania record-clearing questions, answered
Short, accurate answers to the questions we hear most, written by the attorney who files these petitions. Each answer links to the statute or official source.
Can retail theft be expunged in Pennsylvania?It depends on the grade. A first summary retail theft can be expunged after five years; misdemeanor and some felony retail thefts can be sealed by petition.Can a DUI be expunged in Pennsylvania?A DUI resolved through ARD can be expunged. A DUI conviction generally can’t, but a first-offense DUI can usually be sealed after seven years.Does ARD automatically expunge my record?No. Finishing ARD makes you eligible, but a judge must sign an order dismissing the charges and expunging the record. Here’s how to check and what to do.What’s the difference between Clean Slate and expungement?Expungement destroys a record. Clean Slate and limited access seal it. Learn the differences, who can still see a sealed record, and which applies to you.