Experienced Rochester And Bloomington Expungement Attorneys

Last updated on April 14, 2025

In Rochester and Bloomington, a criminal record can create barriers that may impact your ability to lead a fulfilling life, but relief may be possible.

Bird, Stevens & Borgen, P.C., offers decades of experience and a commitment to client advocacy. Known for our determined approach, we can guide your expungement journey and help you take control of your future. With offices in Bloomington and Rochester, we serve southeastern Minnesota and beyond.

Understanding Expungement In Minnesota

Expungement allows you to clear specific criminal matters from your record. Unlike a pardon, which forgives a crime, expungement removes it from view.

Types of expungement:

• Statutory expungement: Under specific conditions, this allows the sealing of records through a petition process, often after meeting waiting periods and demonstrating rehabilitation.
• Inherent authority expungement: Granted through a court’s inherent power to address justice, this may apply if statutory expungement is not possible.

Only certain offenses are eligible for expungement under Minnesota law. Examples of qualifying offenses include:

• Nonviolent felonies (following a five-year waiting period)
• Misdemeanors and gross misdemeanors (following a two-year waiting period)
• Juvenile delinquency adjudications (with no waiting period)

Eligibility requirements under Minnesota Statutes Chapter 609A ensure that individuals who meet waiting periods and have demonstrated rehabilitation can apply for relief. Offenses that do not typically qualify include felony DWI, criminal sexual conduct and domestic assault.

Expungement Benefits And Considerations

Having your record expunged offers transformative advantages for those in Rochester and Bloomington. While it does not entirely erase your record, it can improve your chances of securing employment, suitable housing and a college education. However, it may not affect professional licensing boards or federal immigration processes.

If expungement is not an option, we can help you explore alternatives, such as a certificate of rehabilitation. Our criminal defense attorneys understand Minnesota law and are committed to finding the best solution.

Call To Talk At No Charge

Let us help you reclaim your future. Call us at 507-218-2392 or reach out online to speak with a tireless criminal defense lawyer. We serve Rochester, Bloomington and nearby Minnesota communities.