Misdemeanors generally stay on your criminal record indefinitely unless you take legal steps to have them sealed or expunged. The exact duration and process depend heavily on the jurisdiction and state laws.
- In many states, misdemeanors remain on your record permanently unless expunged. For example, in California, misdemeanor convictions stay on your record until you reach age 100 unless expunged, effectively making them permanent without intervention
- Some states allow misdemeanors to be sealed or expunged after a waiting period following completion of sentencing requirements. For instance, in Nevada, standard misdemeanors are typically eligible for sealing two years after finishing probation or paying fines, though some offenses like domestic violence or DUI may be excluded
- In Texas, misdemeanors usually stay on the record indefinitely unless a court orders expungement or non-disclosure, which limits public access but not law enforcement access
- Retention of misdemeanor case records by courts may vary, with some jurisdictions retaining records for 10 to 20 years before destruction, but this does not equate to removal from an individual's criminal record accessible in background checks
In summary, misdemeanors can stay on your record indefinitely, but many states offer pathways to clear or seal these records after certain conditions and waiting periods are met. The specific time and eligibility depend on the state and the nature of the offense
