Expungement in Tennessee
A criminal record can follow you for years — showing up on background checks, limiting job opportunities, and even affecting housing or education. The good news is that Tennessee law allows certain people to expunge (clear) their records. But the process can be complicated, and not everyone qualifies.
Here’s what you need to know if you’re considering expungement in Tennessee.
What Is Expungement?
Expungement is the legal process of removing a criminal record from public view. Once granted, the record is destroyed or sealed, and you can honestly say you’ve never been convicted or arrested for that offense.
⚠️ Important: Expungement doesn’t happen automatically — you must petition the court.
Who Qualifies for Expungement in Tennessee?
Eligibility depends on the type of charge and the outcome of your case. Some examples:
Dismissed or Dropped Charges
If your case was dismissed, “no true bill” was returned by the grand jury, or charges were dropped, you may be eligible to have the arrest and charges expunged.Not Guilty Verdicts
Acquittals can usually be expunged immediately.Certain Convictions
Tennessee law allows expungement of some non-violent misdemeanor and felony convictions — but only if:It’s your first and only conviction.
It’s on the list of offenses eligible for expungement under Tenn. Code Ann. § 40-32-101(g).
You’ve completed all sentencing requirements (jail, probation, fines, restitution, court costs).
Enough time has passed (usually 5 years after completion of sentence for misdemeanors; 10 years for eligible felonies).
Diversion Programs
If you successfully completed judicial diversion or pretrial diversion, you may be able to expunge your record.
What Cannot Be Expunged?
Not all crimes are eligible. For example:
Violent offenses
Sexual offenses
DUIs
Crimes involving children
These convictions generally cannot be expunged under Tennessee law.
How Does the Process Work?
Check Eligibility – Review your criminal history with an attorney.
File a Petition – The petition must be filed in the court where the charge was originally handled.
Pay Filing Fees – Fees vary by county (often $100–$350).
Hearing (Sometimes) – The judge may require a hearing, especially for conviction expungements.
Court Order – If approved, the clerk will notify state agencies to erase or seal the record.
Why Hire a Lawyer for Expungement?
The process is paperwork-heavy and fact-specific. A mistake can delay or even ruin your chances. An experienced Tennessee criminal defense lawyer can:
Confirm eligibility,
Draft and file the petition properly, and
Advocate for you at the hearing.
Life After Expungement
Once expunged:
Employers and landlords won’t see the record in background checks.
You can legally say the incident did not occur.
It gives you a true second chance.
Final Thoughts
Expungement in Tennessee can open doors that were once closed. But eligibility rules are strict, and the process takes time and care. If you think you may qualify, don’t wait — consult an attorney to review your case.
📞 If you’re in Rutherford County or Middle Tennessee and want to see if your record can be cleared, call our office today for a confidential consultation. (615) 848-9090.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and is not legal advice. Laws change, and the application of law depends on specific facts. You should not rely on this information as a substitute for legal counsel. Reading this post does not create an attorney–client relationship. Contacting our office through this website, blog, or email does not create an attorney–client relationship unless and until a formal written agreement is signed. This blog discusses Tennessee law and procedures. Laws differ from state to state, and even county to county. If your case is outside Tennessee, consult a lawyer licensed in your jurisdiction. This post may be considered attorney advertising under Tennessee law. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Every case is different and must be evaluated on its own facts. Please do not send confidential information through this blog or website. Any information submitted through this site is not protected by attorney–client privilege.
