How to Get a Misdemeanor Expunged?

If you have a misdemeanor conviction in Tennessee, it can harm your life in various ways, including affecting employment opportunities and housing applications. Fortunately, under Tennessee Code Annotated § 40-32-107, certain misdemeanor convictions in Tennessee may be eligible for expungement.

Expungement means the legal record of your conviction is sealed and can no longer be accessed by the public. Our criminal defense lawyer in Nashville at  The Law Office of Bryan Stephenson can guide you through the expungement process.

Expungement Process for Misdemeanor Cases

In Tennessee, certain misdemeanor convictions can be expunged if you meet specific requirements. These include most Class A and Class B misdemeanors.

However, certain offenses, such as domestic assault and DUI, may not be eligible. It’s crucial to consult a knowledgeable lawyer to determine eligibility.

In 2025, Tennessee updated and recodified its expungement law under Tennessee Code Annotated § 40-32-107, replacing the previous § 40-32-101. The revised statute continues to allow expungement for particular Class A, B, & C misdemeanors, provided the offense is not excluded and all legal requirements are met. Eligibility depends on the nature of the offense, the completion of sentencing, and the absence of other convictions. An attorney can help determine if your specific misdemeanor qualifies under the current statute and can guide you through the process step by step.

Here’s how the expungement process works:

Step 1 – Obtain your criminal record: You’ll need to request a copy of your criminal history and the court where you were convicted.

Step 2 – Determine eligibility based on your record: Carefully review your criminal history to ensure you meet the requirements for expungement. This includes waiting periods, completing probation, and paying all fines and restitution.

Step 3 – File a request for expungement with the appropriate court: You’ll need to prepare and file a petition for expungement with the court that handled your case. This petition will include your personal information, criminal history, and reasons for seeking expungement.

Step 4 – Pay any required fees (including fee waiver options): There may be filing fees associated with the expungement process. However, if you cannot afford the costs, you can request a fee waiver.

The expungement process involves several steps, but with the help of a Nashville criminal defense attorney, it can be simplified.

How a Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Assist

The TN expungement process can be complex and time-consuming. Bryan Stephenson, a seasoned criminal defense lawyer in Nashville, has extensive experience helping clients achieve successful expungement of a misdemeanor. He understands the importance of a clean record and is committed to providing compassionate and effective legal representation.

Contact us today for a consultation to know how you can get your misdemeanor expunged.