Wisconsin Expungement Attorneys in Milwaukee & Beyond
Clearing a record can open doors to jobs, housing, and opportunities-but Wisconsin expungement is limited and eligibility can be tricky. We'll help you get clear answers fast.
Clear Expectations, Straight Answers, and Help With the Process
Many people search "expunge my record in Wisconsin" assuming it works like other states. Wisconsin's expungement rules are narrower: in most situations, expungement eligibility must have been granted by the court at the time of sentencing, and it is often tied to youthful-offender criteria and specific offense types.
Levine Law helps clients in Milwaukee and across Wisconsin evaluate eligibility, understand what's possible under current law, and pursue expungement when the statute allows it.
Who Qualifies for Expungement in Wisconsin?
Wisconsin expungement is most commonly available in youthful-offender situations and for certain convictions that meet statutory requirements. Key points often include:
- Age at time of offense matters (commonly under 25 for adult expungement eligibility under the main expungement statute).
- The sentencing judge typically must have made you eligible at sentencing (this is a major reason many "old convictions" are not expungeable later).
- Offense type matters (many serious/violent offenses are not eligible, and eligibility rules vary by classification).
- Completion of the sentence is generally required (including confinement, supervision, and conditions).
If you're not sure what your judgment of conviction says, we can help you review it and explain next steps.
Why Expungement Can Be Worth It
For eligible individuals, expungement can help reduce barriers on:
- Employment background checks
- Housing applications
- Professional and occupational opportunities
- Education and training pathways
- Peace of mind and a real second chance
Even when expungement isn't available, we can often explain other paths (like how records are reported, what employers can consider, and what your specific record shows).
How the Expungement Process Works
While each case is different, expungement typically involves:
- Confirming eligibility under Wisconsin law and the sentencing record
- Gathering case documents and verifying sentence completion
- Preparing and filing the appropriate paperwork with the court
- Addressing objections or required court review (if applicable)
- Following through on the court's process so the expungement is properly implemented
Wisconsin's process is detail-driven. A missed requirement, wrong form, or misunderstanding about what the sentencing court ordered can derail an otherwise valid request.
Expungement Questions Answered
Who qualifies for expungement in Wisconsin?
Eligibility is limited and often depends on age at the time of the offense, the type of conviction, whether the sentencing court granted eligibility at sentencing, and successful completion of the sentence.
How to expunge a record in WI-do I need a lawyer?
Some people can file on their own, but many run into obstacles around eligibility, sentencing language, or documentation. An attorney can help confirm eligibility, file correctly, and respond if issues arise.
Can I expunge an old felony in Wisconsin?
Sometimes-but Wisconsin's rules are narrow. In many cases, expungement had to be granted at sentencing and the conviction must meet specific criteria.
What if I'm not eligible for expungement?
We'll tell you straight. If expungement isn't available, we can still discuss what your record shows, how it may impact you, and whether other legal remedies might apply.
Find Out If You Can Clear Your Record
Eligibility isn't always obvious from a quick online search. Contact Levine Law for a free eligibility consultation and get a clear answer on whether Wisconsin expungement is possible in your case.