Philadelphia Expungement Lawyer | Get Your Clean Slate

Brian F. Humble has spent over 25 years navigating the Philadelphia courts. We don't just wait for "automatic" processes that often glitch; we proactively audit your record to ensure every eligible charge is removed from public view using the full power of Clean Slate 3.0 and the Philadelphia Fair Chance Ordinance.

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Pennsylvania’s Expanded Expungement and Record-Sealing Laws

A criminal record shouldn't be a life sentence of "no." Whether it’s a decades-old mistake or a recent charge that was dismissed, the "invisible handcuffs" of a criminal history can prevent you from securing housing, advancing your career, or volunteering in your community. However, 2026 marks the most significant expansion of record-clearing rights in Pennsylvania history.

The Difference Between Expungement and Record Sealing

Understanding your options is the first step toward a clear background check. In Pennsylvania, there are two primary paths:

1. Expungement (The Gold Standard)

Expungement is the total destruction of a criminal record. It is typically available for:

Non-Convictions: Charges that were dismissed, withdrawn, or resulted in a "Not Guilty" verdict.
Diversionary Programs: Successful completion of ARD (for DUIs) or Section 17 (for drug offenses).
Summary Offenses: Minor convictions (like disorderly conduct) after five years of remaining arrest-free.
Seniors: Individuals over 70 who have been arrest-free for 10 years.

2. Record Sealing (Clean Slate & Limited Access)

Sealing prevents the public, landlords, and most employers from seeing a conviction, though the record remains in the "Limited Access" database for law enforcement. This is the primary path for misdemeanor and now—for the first time—certain felony convictions.

Is Your Record Eligible Under Clean Slate 3.0?

Pennsylvania’s "Clean Slate" laws have evolved. As of 2026, the eligibility requirements are more favorable than ever:

Summary Offenses: These are automatically sealed after 5 years of staying conviction-free.
Misdemeanors: Most second and third-degree misdemeanors (like Simple Assault or a first-offense DUI) are now sealed after 7 years (down from 10).
Qualifying Felonies: Under Clean Slate 3.0, less serious drug felonies (possession) and property-related felonies (thefts/forgery) can be sealed after 10 years of staying conviction-free, provided the sentence was not for more than 30 months of imprisonment.

Note on Court Debt: Under 2026 guidelines, while fines and costs no longer block automatic sealing, restitution owed to a victim must be paid in full before a record can be cleared.

The 2026 Philadelphia Fair Chance Ordinance Update

Philadelphia residents have additional protections that go beyond state law. On January 6, 2026, the "Ban the Box" law was significantly strengthened:

The 4-Year Lookback: Philadelphia employers are now legally barred from considering misdemeanor convictions that are more than 4 years old.
Summary Offense Ban: Employers are completely prohibited from considering any summary offenses, regardless of how recently they occurred.
Sealed Record Protection: If an employer denies you a job based on a sealed or expunged record that accidentally appeared on a background check, they are in violation of city law.

The Pardon Process: The Final Step for Serious Records

If you have a high-level felony or a violent offense that is ineligible for Clean Slate, a Governor’s Pardon is your only path to relief. Brian F. Humble assists clients in the rigorous pardon application process. As of 2026, anyone who receives a full, unconditional pardon now has their record automatically expunged, removing the need for a second petition.

Why Choose B. Humble Law?

With 25 years of experience, Brian F. Humble knows that the "automatic" system isn't perfect. Errors in the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) database often cause eligible records to remain "unsealed," leading to lost job opportunities. Our "Humble but Aggressive" approach means we provide a "Record Audit" to verify that the courts and the FBI have actually updated your file. We are humble in our service to you, but aggressive in holding the system accountable for your fresh start.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long does the expungement process take in 2026?

A petition-based expungement in Philadelphia typically takes 4 to 6 months from the initial filing to the final destruction of records by the State Police.

2. Do I need a lawyer if the sealing is "automatic"?

While many records seal automatically, the system often misses cases with multiple dockets or minor outstanding restitution. Having an attorney verify your eligibility ensures you don't walk into a job interview with a "hidden" record still visible to the public.

3. Can a DUI be expunged in Philadelphia?

If you completed the ARD program, yes, it can be fully expunged. If you were convicted of a DUI, it cannot be expunged, but it can be sealed after 7 years under Clean Slate.

Speak With Brian F. Humble Today

Your past does not have to be your future. Whether you are eligible for an automatic "Clean Slate" or require a formal petition for expungement, we are here to guide you through the process.

Start your fresh start today. Contact B. Humble Law for a comprehensive Record Audit and consultation.