Expungement in Delaware
State-specific overview · Criminal Law
Delaware allows expungement of most convictions after a waiting period, with violent and sexual offenses generally excluded.
How Delaware treats Expungement
Delaware permits expungement under Del. Code Ann. tit. 11, § 4355 for most felonies and misdemeanors after waiting periods ranging from 5 to 15 years depending on the offense. Violent crimes, sexual offenses, and crimes against children are typically ineligible. Upon expungement, records are sealed and you may answer that the conviction did not occur, except in limited contexts involving law enforcement and certain professional licensing boards.
The general definition of Expungement
A legal process that erases or seals a criminal conviction from your record.
Expungement allows you to have a criminal conviction removed from your official record, as if it never happened. Once expunged, you can legally say you were never convicted of that crime in most situations. Not all convictions qualify—eligibility depends on the crime, how much time has passed, and your state's laws. This gives people a fresh start and removes barriers to employment, housing, and other opportunities.
Read the full Expungement entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in Delaware.