Understanding the New Maryland Criminal Justice Reforms: The Expungement Reform Act

Starting October 1, 2025, Maryland’s Expungement Reform Act brings significant changes to the expungement process for criminal records in the state. Under this act, people with certain misdemeanor convictions can seek expungement of their criminal record. 

Dealing with the expungement process can be complicated, but understanding how these reforms apply to your specific circumstances will help in the long run. Our criminal defense attorneys at Portner & Shure, P.A., can provide guidance every step of the way. With our representation, we can help you take full advantage of the opportunities presented by The Expungement Reform Act. Reach out today to discuss your eligibility.

Major Changes in Maryland Expungement Law

The Maryland Expungement Reform Act updates the state’s approach to clearing criminal records and broadens the options for those seeking a fresh start. The law adjusts previous limitations and introduces new opportunities for individuals with eligible convictions. Key changes include:

• Shorter Waiting Periods: Individuals can now petition for expungement sooner after completing their sentence.
• Expungement Possible After Probation Violations: Previous restrictions blocking expungement for probation violations have been removed for eligible offenses.
• Expanded List of Eligible Misdemeanors: More misdemeanor convictions, such as driving without a license, cashing a bad check, and possession of a stolen credit card, can now be expunged.
• Cannabis Pardons Excluded from Public Records: Cannabis-related charges that were later pardoned by the Governor will no longer appear in public case searches.
• Simplified Filing Process: Steps for submitting and processing expungement requests have been streamlined to help applicants navigate the system more efficiently.

These reforms provide Maryland residents with greater access to clearing their records and opening doors to new personal and professional opportunities.

Special Provisions Regarding Cannabis and Public Records

The Expungement Reform Act brings additional changes for anyone with past cannabis-related charges. If a cannabis conviction was later pardoned by the Governor, it will no longer show up in Maryland’s public case search. Reducing the visibility of these records makes it easier for people to pursue new opportunities and build a fresh chapter in their lives.

How the Expungement Process Works Under the New Law

The Expungement Reform Act has updated the process for clearing eligible records, creating new opportunities for those who’ve already been convicted or are facing charges. Under the new rules, the first step is figuring out if your conviction qualifies, then gathering and submitting the right documentation to the court. 

Once your petition is filed and reviewed, a judge will issue an order for expungement if everything meets the legal requirements. Having a criminal defense attorney guide you through this process can help confirm eligibility, organize your paperwork, meet deadlines, and handle any questions or challenges that come up.

Who is Eligible for Expungement?

• Individuals with Certain Misdemeanor Convictions: Including offenses such as driving without a license, cashing a bad check, or possession of a stolen credit card.
• People Who Completed Their Sentence: Those who have served their time, paid fines, or fulfilled other sentence requirements.
• Individuals with Probation Violations: Past probation violations no longer automatically block eligibility for qualifying offenses.
• People with Pardoned Cannabis Charges: Cannabis-related convictions that were later pardoned by the Governor are eligible for removal from public records.

Steps to File for Expungement 

1. Check Your Eligibility: Look over your record and the new rules to see if your convictions can be expunged.
2. Gather Your Documents: Collect court records, sentencing details, and any other paperwork you’ll need.
3. Submit Your Petition: Fill out the expungement forms and file them with the right court.
4. Handle Any Questions or Objections: Address any concerns from the court or prosecutors about your petition.
5. Attend a Hearing if Needed: Go before a judge to clarify or provide more details about your request.
6. Get the Court Order: Once approved, make sure you have the official expungement order.
7. Follow Up on Records:Double-check that all relevant agencies and public databases reflect your cleared record.

Why Reform Matters: Second Chances for Marylanders

For many Marylanders, a past conviction can feel like a permanent mark. The Expungement Reform Act changes that. By expanding eligibility, shortening waiting periods, and removing barriers like past probation violations, this law opens doors for people to move forward without being defined by their past.

People who were once held back by criminal charges can now take steps toward a fresh start. With the right guidance, especially from expungement attorneys familiar with the process, Marylanders can fully take advantage of these changes and embrace the promise of a second chance. 

How Portner & Shure, P.A. Helps with Expungement Cases

At Portner & Shure, P.A., our attorneys guide you through every step of the expungement process, from determining eligibility to filing your petition. We handle the details so you can focus on moving forward. Reach out today to see how we can help you pursue a clean record and a brighter future.