📅 2026 Update: Recent Changes in Oregon Expungement Laws

Since the original article was published, there have been notable changes in Oregon's expungement laws. These changes have made it easier for individuals to clear their criminal records, leading to a significant increase in set-aside filings. The article below continues to provide foundational information on expungement in Oregon.

📈 Increased Set-Aside Filings

The years 2024 to 2026 saw a dramatic rise in set-aside filings in Oregon. This increase is attributed to changes in the law made in 2022. Now, the number of filings is about four times higher than before.

This trend is likely to keep growing as more people seek to expunge their records.

💰 Current Fees and Costs

Filing fees for expungement vary by county in Oregon. The Oregon Judicial Department provides a statewide fee schedule for different court actions. Individuals facing financial issues can apply for a reduction or waiver of unpaid fees, including costs related to court-appointed attorney fees.

📋 Forms and Filing Process

To start the expungement process, individuals must obtain forms from the Oregon Judicial Department's Forms Center. After filling them out, the originals need to be filed with the county circuit court, and a copy must be mailed to the District Attorney's office. Following these steps correctly is crucial for a successful application.

⏳ Processing Times

Once a motion for expungement is filed, the Circuit Court judge will review it and make a decision. The applicant or their attorney receives the decision by mail. If the expungement is granted, certified copies of the order are sent to relevant agencies, initiating the record sealing process, which can take several weeks.

📜 Eligibility Rules

To be eligible for expungement, individuals must wait at least three years from the judgment for their conviction to be set aside. Those still on probation or who have had other convictions in the last ten years cannot apply. Most misdemeanors and Class C felonies qualify, but some offenses, such as traffic crimes and sex offenses, cannot be expunged.

📌 Key Points to Remember

  • 📈 Set-aside filings have increased significantly since 2022.
  • 💰 Filing fees vary by county, with options for fee waivers.
  • 📋 Forms must be obtained from the Oregon Judicial Department.
  • ⏳ Processing can take several weeks after filing.
  • 📜 Eligibility includes specific waiting periods and offense types.

💡 Tips for Navigating Expungement in Oregon

Reviewing your specific situation with an attorney is essential to understand how these laws apply to you.

📄 Gather Necessary Documents

Before applying for expungement, collect all required documents related to your case. This includes court records and any prior convictions. Having everything organized can speed up the process.

📅 Know Your Eligibility

Make sure you understand the eligibility rules for expungement in Oregon. You must meet the waiting period and ensure you have no recent convictions that disqualify you.

💻 Use Available Resources

Take advantage of free resources like Oregon Law Help and the Oregon Judicial Department for guidance. They provide valuable information about the expungement process and the necessary forms.

🏛️ Contact Local Circuit Courts

Reach out to your local circuit court for assistance. Many courts offer support and detailed instructions for filing an expungement request, which can be very helpful.

📢 Inform Victims

If your case involves named victims, remember that the district attorney must notify them about the expungement petition. This is part of the legal process and ensures victims can participate if they choose.

🗂️ Keep Track of Processing Times

After filing your expungement request, be aware that the court's decision may take time. Stay informed about the expected timeline for processing your application.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

🤔 What is the waiting period for expungement in Oregon?

The waiting period to expunge a conviction in Oregon is typically three years after the judgment has been pronounced.

📅 Can I expunge a felony conviction in Oregon?

Yes, most misdemeanors and Class C felonies are eligible for expungement in Oregon, but certain serious offenses, like sex crimes, are not.

📬 How will I know if my expungement is granted?

After filing your motion for expungement, you will receive a decision by mail from the Circuit Court judge regarding the status of your request.

💸 What should I do if I can't afford the filing fees?

If you are facing financial hardship, you can apply to reduce, modify, or waive unpaid fees associated with your expungement filing.

📜 Are there resources available to help with expungement?

Yes, organizations like Oregon Law Help and local circuit courts provide free resources and information to assist individuals with the expungement process.

📞 Can I get help from an attorney for expungement?

While hiring an attorney is not required, you may seek assistance from nonprofit organizations that provide guidance on the expungement process and help with eligibility.

⚖️ Recent Cases Related to Expungement

Recent court rulings have further shaped the landscape of expungement laws in Oregon. These rulings provide insight into how laws are applied and interpreted in various cases.

For more information on recent rulings, you can browse more rulings on the news page.

End of October 2026 Update






Having a criminal record can affect your ability to apply and pursue a job with confidence. You may also find trouble qualifying for a loan or clearing background checks for any previous convictions. For this reason many people with criminal records look into having their criminal records expunged because of the limitations it can place becoming a disadvantage in daily life.  



The State of Oregon has expungement laws that allow the court to seal convictions for certain crimes. Once this record is sealed it allows a person to portray a positive image as if the crime had never been committed. There are waiting periods before you can make a request for your record to be expunged.



In most cases, a person may apply for expungement any time after three years since the date of conviction, provided that a person has fully complied with the rules of their sentencing. In certain cases, if someone is arrested with no charges filed, the court will set side those criminal records to be expunged after one year. If a person is arrested and all charges are acquitted or the case is dismissed, they can apply for their records to be expunged immediately.

Oregon Expungement Laws


When applying for criminal record expungement, you have to ensure that there are no arrests for any other charges within three years of the original arrest. There must be no conviction within the last 10 years as well. Expungements will also not be granted to repeat offenders or persons who habitually commit crimes of a similar nature.



Juveniles in the State of Oregon are required to wait at least five years after their last contact with the juvenile court to request expungement. There must be no convictions or felonies, pending violations, or any Class A misdemeanors when issuing the expungement.



In most counties, expungment is not automatic. A motion must be filed. A fee is required to have your records expunged. The fee can vary, depending on the cost of legal aid received with each individual’s case. Expungement will usually require the aid of Oregon lawyers to draft the motion for expungement. It is actually recommended that you seek the advice of a lawyer when requesting a record to be expunged. The expungement motion will be filed with the court where an offender was sentenced. It is important that the court sees that the offender has made a valid effort and is now living an honest life.



Getting your records expunged is a great way to close doors on past mistakes and provides past offenders with a streak of new confidence. This is especially the case when the charges brought against a person are minor or an event was simply misunderstood. No person should feel the void of walking around with the burdens of past errors, especially if the situation was deemed a learning experience.



Having a clean record allows a person to move forward with their life, without the baggage of a prior conviction, without the embarrassment of having to disclose a criminal record or worry about that information being searched. Expungement provides a peace of mind and, in essence, a new beginning.