Maryland Expungement LSC-Grade Legal Packet
Court-ready document packet for Maryland residents seeking to clear their criminal record.
1. Eligibility Checker — Who Qualifies for Expungement in Maryland
Answer these questions to see if you qualify:
Question 1: What was the outcome of your case?
| If your case ended with... | You may be eligible... |
|---|---|
| Not guilty (acquittal) | Immediately |
| Dismissed / Nolle prosequi / Stet | Immediately |
| Probation Before Judgment (PBJ) | 3 years after completion |
| Guilty conviction (misdemeanor) | 10 years after sentence completion |
| Guilty conviction (felony with 20+ year max penalty) | 15 years after sentence completion |
| Marijuana possession conviction | Automatic (already processed) |
Question 2: What were you convicted of?
These offenses CAN be expunged (after waiting period):
- Most misdemeanors (theft under $1,500, trespassing, disorderly conduct)
- Drug possession (not trafficking)
- Second-degree assault (after 15 years)
- Manslaughter (with judge approval)
- Non-violent felonies
These offenses CANNOT be expunged:
- Murder (first or second degree)
- Rape or sexual offenses
- First-degree assault
- Robbery, carjacking, kidnapping
- Arson, burglary (occupied dwelling)
- Child abuse or child pornography
- Domestic violence convictions
- DUI/DWI (any conviction)
- Sex offenses requiring registration
- Any conviction if you have 2+ total convictions
Question 3: Have you completed your sentence?
You must have completed ALL of the following before the waiting period starts:
- [ ] Jail or prison time served
- [ ] Probation or parole completed
- [ ] All fines paid
- [ ] All restitution paid
- [ ] All court costs paid
- [ ] Community service completed
Question 4: Have you had any new convictions during the waiting period?
- If YES: You may not be eligible. The waiting period resets with each new conviction.
- If NO: You may proceed.
2. Required Forms
| Form Name | Form Number | Purpose | Where to Get It |
|---|---|---|---|
| Petition for Expungement (District Court) | DC-CR-066 | File in District Court for misdemeanor cases | Maryland Courts or local courthouse |
| Petition for Expungement (Circuit Court) | CC-CR-066 | File in Circuit Court for felony cases | Maryland Courts or local courthouse |
| Order for Expungement | DC-CR-067 or CC-CR-067 | Judge signs this if your petition is granted | Maryland Courts |
| General Waiver and Release | CC-DR-055 | Waives filing fee (automatic for most expungements) | Clerk's office |
| Criminal Record (optional but recommended) | — | Your complete Maryland criminal history | Maryland Judiciary Case Search (free) or Maryland State Police CJIS (~$18) |
Where to Download Forms
- Online: Maryland Courts Forms Portal
- In Person: Any Maryland District Court or Circuit Court clerk's office
- By Mail: Call the clerk's office to request forms be mailed
3. Step-by-Step Filing Instructions
Before You Start
- Get a copy of your complete criminal record
- Confirm you meet all eligibility requirements
- Identify the correct court (District Court for misdemeanors, Circuit Court for felonies)
Step 1: Gather Your Case Information
You will need:
- Full legal name and date of birth
- Case number (from Maryland Judiciary Case Search)
- Court name and county where case was heard
- Arrest date
- Charge(s) filed against you
- Disposition (guilty, not guilty, dismissed, PBJ, nolle prosequi)
- Sentence imposed (if convicted)
- Date sentence was completed
Step 2: Complete the Petition for Expungement
- Download form DC-CR-066 (District Court) or CC-CR-066 (Circuit Court)
- Fill in your personal information at the top
- List each case you want expunged (separate petition for each case number)
- Check the box that matches your eligibility (acquittal, dismissal, or conviction with waiting period met)
- Sign and date the petition
Step 3: Complete the Order for Expungement
- Download form DC-CR-067 or CC-CR-067
- Fill in the same case information as your petition
- Leave the judge's signature line blank — the court will complete this
Step 4: Make Copies
- Original + 2 copies of Petition
- Original + 2 copies of Order
- Keep one copy for your records
Step 5: File with the Court
Bring your documents to the clerk's office at the court where your case was heard:
- District Court: For misdemeanors and civil citations
- Circuit Court: For felonies and appeals
The clerk will:
- Stamp your copies "Filed" with the date
- Assign a hearing date (if required)
- Accept your filing (most expungements are FREE)
Step 6: Wait for Response
- The State's Attorney has 30 days to object or consent
- If no objection: Most petitions are granted without a hearing
- If objection: You will receive notice of a hearing date by mail
Step 7: Attend Hearing (If Required)
If the prosecutor objects:
- Bring character references (letters from employers, family, community members)
- Bring proof of rehabilitation (employment records, education certificates, volunteer work)
- Be prepared to explain why expungement serves justice
- Dress professionally and arrive early
Step 8: Receive Your Order
If granted, the court will:
- Sign the Order for Expungement
- Mail you a certified copy
- Send the order to all relevant agencies (Maryland State Police, FBI, police departments)
4. Court Information by County
Baltimore City
District Court of Maryland — Baltimore City
- Address: 500 N. Calvert Street, Baltimore, MD 21202
- Phone: (410) 333-4600
- Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Filing Fee: $0 (fee waiver automatic for expungements)
- Parking: Metered street parking; paid garage nearby
Circuit Court for Baltimore City
- Address: 111 N. Calvert Street, Baltimore, MD 21202
- Phone: (410) 396-4855
- Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Filing Fee: $0 (fee waiver automatic)
Montgomery County
District Court of Maryland — Montgomery County
- Address: 27 Courthouse Square, Rockville, MD 20850
- Phone: (240) 777-9100
- Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Filing Fee: $0
Circuit Court for Montgomery County
- Address: 50 Maryland Avenue, Rockville, MD 20850
- Phone: (240) 777-9400
- Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Filing Fee: $0
Prince George's County
District Court of Maryland — Prince George's County
- Address: 14735 Main Street, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772
- Phone: (301) 952-3655
- Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Filing Fee: $0
Circuit Court for Prince George's County
- Address: 14735 Main Street, Upper Marlboro, MD 20772
- Phone: (301) 952-3318
- Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Filing Fee: $0
Baltimore County
District Court of Maryland — Baltimore County (Towson)
- Address: 120 E. Susquehanna Avenue, Towson, MD 21204
- Phone: (410) 512-2000
- Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Filing Fee: $0
Circuit Court for Baltimore County
- Address: 401 Bosley Avenue, Towson, MD 21204
- Phone: (410) 887-2139
- Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Filing Fee: $0
Anne Arundel County
District Court of Maryland — Anne Arundel County
- Address: 251 Rowe Boulevard, Annapolis, MD 21401
- Phone: (410) 260-1300
- Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Filing Fee: $0
Circuit Court for Anne Arundel County
- Address: 8 Church Circle, Annapolis, MD 21401
- Phone: (410) 222-1397
- Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Filing Fee: $0
Howard County
District Court of Maryland — Howard County
- Address: 3451 Courthouse Drive, Ellicott City, MD 21043
- Phone: (410) 313-5400
- Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Filing Fee: $0
Circuit Court for Howard County
- Address: 8360 Court Avenue, Ellicott City, MD 21043
- Phone: (410) 313-2111
- Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Filing Fee: $0
Frederick County
District Court of Maryland — Frederick County
- Address: 100 W. Patrick Street, Frederick, MD 21701
- Phone: (301) 600-1976
- Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Filing Fee: $0
Circuit Court for Frederick County
- Address: 100 W. Patrick Street, Frederick, MD 21701
- Phone: (301) 600-1976
- Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
- Filing Fee: $0
5. Filing Checklist
Before going to the courthouse, make sure you have:
Documents
- [ ] Completed Petition for Expungement (DC-CR-066 or CC-CR-066)
- [ ] Completed Order for Expungement (DC-CR-067 or CC-CR-067)
- [ ] Copy of your criminal record (from Case Search or CJIS)
- [ ] Proof of sentence completion (if requested)
- [ ] Proof of fine/restitution payment (if applicable)
- [ ] Government-issued photo ID (driver's license, state ID, passport)
Information
- [ ] Case number(s)
- [ ] Arrest date(s)
- [ ] Charge(s)
- [ ] Disposition (guilty, dismissed, PBJ, etc.)
- [ ] Sentence completion date
Payment
- [ ] Most expungements are FREE (fee waiver automatic under CP §10-106(c))
- [ ] Bring $5-$15 cash for copies if needed (varies by county)
6. What to Bring to the Hearing
If your hearing is scheduled (prosecutor objected or judge requested):
Required
- [ ] Photo ID (driver's license, state ID, or passport)
- [ ] Copy of your filed petition (with clerk's stamp)
- [ ] Notice of hearing (mailed to you by the court)
Strongly Recommended
- [ ] Letters of reference (2-5 letters from employers, clergy, family, community members)
- [ ] Proof of employment (recent pay stubs, employer letter)
- [ ] Proof of education or job training (diplomas, certificates)
- [ ] Volunteer or community service records
- [ ] Proof of rehabilitation (counseling completion certificates, AA/NA attendance)
- [ ] List of positive life changes since conviction
Optional
- [ ] Attorney (if you have one)
- [ ] Character witnesses (people who will speak on your behalf)
- [ ] Written statement explaining why you deserve expungement
7. What Happens After Filing
Timeline Overview
| Step | Timeframe |
|---|---|
| File petition | Day 0 |
| Court notifies State's Attorney | Day 0-3 |
| State's Attorney reviews | Days 0-30 |
| State's Attorney responds | By Day 30 |
| If no objection → Order signed | 30-90 days |
| If objection → Hearing scheduled | 60-120 days |
| Agencies notified of expungement | 30-60 days after order |
| Record removed from public databases | 60-90 days after order |
Possible Outcomes
1. Petition Granted (Most Common)
- Judge signs Order for Expungement
- Court sends order to Maryland State Police, FBI, and other agencies
- Record is destroyed or sealed within 60-90 days
- You can legally deny the conviction on most applications
2. Petition Denied
- Judge issues written denial with reasons
- You may re-file after addressing the issues (e.g., wait longer, gather more evidence)
- You may appeal within 30 days to Circuit Court
- You may seek a Governor's pardon as alternative
3. Hearing Required
- State's Attorney objected or judge has questions
- You will receive notice by mail with hearing date
- Present your case and supporting evidence
- Judge decides at hearing or within 30 days
After Expungement is Granted
What changes:
- Maryland Judiciary Case Search shows "EXPUNGED" or removes record
- Background checks by employers won't show the offense
- You can legally answer "no" to most conviction questions
Who can still see the record:
- Law enforcement (police, prosecutors, courts)
- Certain professional licensing boards (teaching, nursing, law enforcement)
- Firearm licensing applications
- Military/government security clearances
- Immigration authorities (USCIS, ICE)
8. Local Legal Aid Resources
LSC-Funded Organizations in Maryland
Maryland Legal Aid (Primary LSC grantee — serves all Maryland)
- Phone: (410) 539-5340 or 1-800-999-8904
- Website: mdlabor.org
- Service Area: All Maryland counties and Baltimore City
- Services: Free legal help for low-income residents in civil matters, including expungement
- Eligibility: Income at or below 200% of federal poverty level
Community Legal Services of Prince George's County
- Phone: (301) 864-8356
- Address: 6201 Kenilworth Avenue, Suite 100, Riverdale, MD 20737
- Services: Free civil legal services to low-income Prince George's County residents
- Eligibility: Income-qualified Prince George's County residents
Civil Justice, Inc.
- Phone: (410) 706-0174
- Website: civiljustice.org
- Services: Low-cost legal services, pro bono referrals, expungement clinics
- Location: Baltimore (serves statewide)
Free Expungement Clinics
Maryland Volunteer Lawyers Service
- Phone: (410) 547-9200
- Website: mvlslaw.org
- Services: Free expungement clinics throughout Maryland
- Check website for upcoming clinic dates
Baltimore City Expungement Clinic
- Location: Various locations in Baltimore City
- Contact: Baltimore City Office of Human Services
- Phone: (410) 396-3102
Online Resources
Maryland Judiciary Case Search
- Website: casesearch.courts.state.md.us
- Free: Search your criminal record online
Maryland Courts Self-Help Center
- Phone: 1-800-492-2658 (Mon-Fri, 8:30 AM - 8:00 PM)
- Website: mdcourts.gov/selfhelp
- Services: Free legal information, form help, referrals
Maryland People's Law Library
- Website: peoples-law.org
- Services: Free legal information and self-help resources
9. Controlling Statute Citations
Maryland Criminal Procedure Article
Primary Expungement Statutes:
| Code Section | Subject |
|---|---|
| CP §10-101 | Definitions for expungement |
| CP §10-102 | Petition for expungement — where to file |
| CP §10-103 | Contents of petition |
| CP §10-104 | Notice to State's Attorney and victim |
| CP §10-105 | Eligibility for expungement — acquittals, dismissals, convictions |
| CP §10-105(a) | Immediate eligibility (acquittals, dismissals, nolle prosequi) |
| CP §10-105(c)(2) | 10-year waiting period for most misdemeanors and some felonies |
| CP §10-105(c)(3) | 15-year waiting period for certain felonies |
| CP §10-106 | Offenses not eligible for expungement |
| CP §10-106(c) | Fee waiver for expungement petitions |
| CP §10-107 | Access to expunged records |
| CP §10-108 | Effect of expungement |
| CP §10-109 | Appeal of denial |
| CP §10-110 | Expungement of peace orders |
| CP §10-110.1 | Automatic expungement of marijuana convictions |
Access the Full Statutes
- Online: Maryland Code Online
- Search: "Maryland Criminal Procedure Article 10-101"
10. Disclaimer
IMPORTANT: This packet is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
The information in this packet is designed to help you understand Maryland's expungement process and complete the required forms. It is not a substitute for advice from a licensed Maryland attorney.
- Every case is different. Your eligibility may depend on facts not covered in this guide.
- Laws change. The statutes and procedures described here are current as of March 2026 but may change.
- If your case involves complex issues (multiple convictions, objections from the prosecutor, prior denials), consult an attorney.
- For legal advice specific to your situation, contact Maryland Legal Aid at 1-800-999-8904 or visit mdlabor.org.
Jurist-Diction is not a law firm. We do not provide legal advice or form an attorney-client relationship. Our templates are attorney-drafted documents designed to meet Maryland court formatting requirements.
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Last updated: March 2026 | Jurist-Diction provides legal document templates for: NY, NJ, PA, MD, DE, MS, TN