Question 1

What does it mean to set aside a conviction?

Accepted Answer

A Michigan set-aside generally restricts the public court and criminal-history record as provided by law. It does not mean every record disappears for every purpose.

Question 2

Is expungement automatic?

Accepted Answer

Michigan has both automatic and application-based set-aside processes. Some convictions may qualify for automatic processing, while others require an application. Not every conviction qualifies.

Question 3

Will I have to attend a hearing?

Accepted Answer

Court procedures can vary depending on the matter, court, and applicable process. A court may schedule a hearing as part of its review. The firm will explain the expected procedure for an accepted matter.

Question 4

What information may be needed?

Accepted Answer

Depending on the matter, the process may involve contact and case information, fingerprints, criminal-history information, certified conviction records, prior applications, and information about subsequent charges.

Question 5

Does a set-aside guarantee employment, housing, or licensing approval?

Accepted Answer

No. A set-aside may help reduce the public visibility of an eligible conviction, but it does not guarantee approval for any job, housing application, professional license, educational program, or other opportunity.

Question 6

Does submitting an intake form mean the firm represents me?

Accepted Answer

No. Submitting an intake does not create an attorney-client relationship. Representation begins only after the firm accepts the matter and all required engagement steps are completed.

Question 7

What if I do not know my case number or conviction date?

Accepted Answer

Provide what you can and leave the rest blank. Missing details do not prevent submission, and the firm can obtain court and criminal-history records as part of its review.

Question 8

How long can the process take?

Accepted Answer

Timing depends on the court, the applicable process, and the facts of the matter. The firm can discuss general timing for an accepted matter. No timeline is guaranteed.

Question 9

How much does a standard expungement cost?

Accepted Answer

The standard legal fee is $2,000 for a qualifying standard expungement matter accepted by the firm. Fingerprinting, criminal-history searches, certified court records, filing expenses, mailing, service costs, and other third-party expenses are separate unless the written agreement states otherwise. Additional applications, courts, hearings, or services may require a different fee. The firm confirms the scope and cost before representation begins. Submitting an intake does not create an attorney-client relationship.

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