What Crimes Cannot Be Expunged? (Class Y? Goodbye!)

Some convictions are not eligible for expungement in Arkansas. These include:

• Class Y felonies (the most serious in Arkansas)

• Violent felonies, such as murder, rape, or kidnapping

• Sex offenses involving minors

• Felonies where a firearm was used

• Convictions with habitual offender enhancements

If you’re not sure where your case falls, we’ll evaluate it during your consultation. Visit our expungement page or our home page to start the conversation.

Expungement (also known as sealing) allows certain criminal records to be cleared from public view in Arkansas. When a record is expunged, you can legally say that the arrest or conviction did not occur—in most cases, even on job applications.

According to Ark. Code Ann. § 16-90-1405, eligible offenses include:

• Misdemeanors, including some first-time DWI charges

• Non-violent felonies, particularly Class C and D felonies

• Certain drug possession charges

• Charges dismissed or nolle prossed (not pursued)

• Cases with a completed diversion program or probation

Every case is unique, and the outcome may depend on the court, county, or circumstances of your original conviction. If you have been charged with one the offenses above, give us a call and we can help clear that. If you have been charged with a violent crime, we unfortunately cannot help you. Class Y? Goodbye!

As always - if you have a legal question you want answered in a future blog, submit it via the form on this page. Now, let's dive in!

How to Get a Criminal Record Expunged in Arkansas

The expungement process includes:

1. Reviewing your eligibility under Arkansas law

2. Filing a petition for expungement in the circuit or district court

3. Notifying the prosecuting attorney

4. Attending a hearing (if required)

5. Receiving a court order if the judge grants the petition

Once the order is granted, state and local agencies are directed to seal the record. It no longer appears in background checks for employment, housing, or professional licensing.

How Long Does Expungement Take in Arkansas?

The timeline varies by county, but most expungements take 60 to 180 days from the date the petition is filed.

However, some cases require a waiting period before you're even eligible to file. For example:

Ready to Leave the Past Behind?

Call 501-838-4043 or visit ludwiglawfirm.com. We’ll review your case and guide you through every step of clearing your record.

📞 Call Ludwig Law Firm today at 501-838-4043
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Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as legal advice. Reading this blog or interacting with Ludwig Law Firm through this content does not create an attorney-client relationship. Every legal case is different, and you should not act or rely on any information in this blog without first consulting with a licensed attorney about your specific situation. For legal guidance tailored to your needs, please contact Ludwig Law Firm directly.

Why Expungement Is Worth Pursuing for Your Future

Here’s what a successful expungement can do:

• Restore access to better job opportunities

• Improve chances of housing approval

• Help with professional licenses and background checks

• Remove the stigma of a criminal record

• Allow you to legally answer “no” when asked if you’ve been convicted

At Ludwig Law Firm, we believe in second chances, and will work hard to shorten the process by ensuring your paperwork is correct and submitted in a timely manner.

We also partner with skilled litigators like Warden Law Firm when clients need both courtroom experience and long-term advocacy. When a client needs both finesse and firepower, a Ludwig and Warden partnership is the best option. Together, we provide full-spectrum criminal defense and post-conviction relief across Arkansas.