XXTOTO | A criminal record can quietly follow you for years, closing doors to jobs, housing, and even a fresh start you've already earned. Clean Slate Pathway, a project of Legal Aid of West Michigan, was created to help Michigan residents cut through the confusion around expungement and find out exactly where they stand. Whether you're just starting to explore your options or you're ready to file, our goal is simple: make record clearing accessible, understandable, and free for the people who need it most.

Michigan's Clean Slate law, which took full effect in April 2023, was one of the most sweeping expungement reforms in the country. It automatically clears many misdemeanor and felony convictions from public record after a set waiting period, without requiring the person to file anything or hire an attorney. For thousands of Michiganders, this means past mistakes may already be legally erased — they just don't know it yet, because the state does not send notifications when a record is automatically expunged.

That gap is exactly why Clean Slate Pathway exists. Not every conviction qualifies for automatic expungement, and eligibility depends on factors like offense type, how much time has passed, and whether other charges are still on your record. Some people will need to file a manual expungement request through the courts to get the outcome they're after. Understanding which category you fall into is the first — and often most confusing — step, and it's one our team helps clarify at no cost.

This is where free legal help makes the real difference. Clean Slate Pathway connects Michigan residents with the same trusted legal aid attorneys and advocates who have spent years helping the community navigate expungement, from checking automatic clearance status to preparing and filing manual petitions. There's no cost to reach out, no obligation, and no judgment — just clear answers from people who understand Michigan's expungement laws inside and out.

Clearing your record isn't just paperwork; it's an open door to a better job, safer housing, and full participation in your community. If you're ready to find out whether your record has already been cleared, or you need guidance filing for expungement yourself, Clean Slate Pathway and Legal Aid of West Michigan are here to help you take that next step with confidence.