Record Restriction (Expungement)

What is Record Restriction?

In Georgia, the process commonly called “expungement” is known as record restriction. It does not delete the record entirely, but it restricts access to it from most employers and the general public.

We can evaluate whether record restriction may be available in your case and help you understand the most practical path forward.

What Record Restriction Can Do

Record restriction may, in eligible cases, limit public access to certain criminal history information, reduce the visibility of certain records in many background checks, and help remove barriers to employment, housing, and licensing.

In many situations, record restriction does not erase the past entirely, and certain agencies may still retain access depending on the circumstances. The key question is eligibility and what level of restriction may apply.

Common Situations Where People Seek Record Restriction

Every case is different, but people often explore record restriction when:

• Charges were dismissed, nolle prossed, or not prosecuted: Many people seek restriction after a case ends without a conviction, especially when an old arrest keeps showing up in background checks.
• Arrest without conviction: Some people were arrested but never convicted and want to know if public access can be limited.
• Completed a disposition and want to know what relief exists: Whether relief is available can depend on the exact outcome language, charge type, and other details.
• A past case continues to create obstacles: Record restriction is often explored when a long-closed case still affects employment, housing, or licensing.

What We Look at When Evaluating Eligibility

To determine whether record restriction may be available, we typically start with:

• The county and court where the case occurred
• The charge(s) and final disposition
• Whether there was a conviction (and if so, the offense type)
• The age of the case and any subsequent history
• Any prior restriction efforts or related filings

Even small details—dates, disposition language, or multiple charges—can affect what relief may be available.

Timing, Process, and What to Expect

Record restriction involves procedural steps that vary depending on the type of case and where it was handled. In general, the process often includes gathering case documentation and criminal history records, determining the correct process based on disposition and jurisdiction, preparing and submitting the required materials, and following up to confirm the outcome and ensure records are updated where applicable.

We’ll explain the expected steps and timeframe once we review your case details.

Frequently Asked Questions