Having your criminal record expunged is a huge relief. But even after expungement, sometimes your past mistakes still pop up in Google searches. This can cause issues when looking for a job or moving forward in life.
The good news? You can usually get Google to remove records that courts have expunged. Here’s a clear guide on exactly how to do it.
What Does “Expunged” Mean and Why Is It Still on Google?
An expunged record means your criminal charges or conviction are officially erased by the court. Legally, it’s like it never happened.
However, news websites and other online sources often keep old stories online, even after your case is cleared. Google might still show these outdated articles because their system doesn’t update instantly.
Google doesn’t automatically know when a record gets expunged, you have to let them know officially.
Step-by-Step: Removing an Expunged Record from Google
Step 1: Get Proof of Your Expungement
You need an official court document proving your case was expunged. Contact your courthouse and ask for a certified copy. Without this, Google won’t act on your request.
Step 2: Find URLs Showing Your Old Record
Do a Google search for your name to find all articles mentioning your expunged record. Copy the exact web addresses (URLs) of these articles.
Be thorough—Google needs the exact URL to consider your request.
Step 3: Submit a Legal Removal Request to Google
Use Google’s Legal Removal Form to submit your request. Clearly state that your record has been expunged and include the official court document you obtained earlier.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Your full name and contact info.
- URLs of articles mentioning the expunged record.
- Clear, official proof of expungement.
- A simple explanation: “This content references a criminal record that has been officially expunged by court order.”
Submit your request here.
Step 4: Wait for Google’s Response
Google typically responds within one week. They may request additional proof or clarifications. Keep checking your email regularly and respond promptly.
If Google approves, the URLs will disappear from search results.
Step 5: Follow Up if Necessary
Sometimes, Google initially rejects a request due to insufficient documentation. Don’t panic. You can resubmit with clearer evidence:
- Provide additional court documents.
- Include a direct statement from your attorney, if possible.
Dealing specifically with mugshots? Read our detailed guide on How to Remove Mugshots from Google.
What if Google Won’t Remove the Content?
Google might not remove the content if the websites don’t update or remove the articles first. In this case, you have two options:
Option 1: Contact Websites Directly
Politely request websites remove or update the article referencing your expunged record. Include your court documents. Many news sites respect official expungements and will either remove or update the content.
Option 2: Suppress Negative Search Results
If removal isn’t possible, push down the negative results by:
- Creating new social media profiles.
- Publishing positive articles or blog posts.
- Building a professional personal website.
These methods help bury negative links deeper in Google results, reducing their impact.
We had a client whose DUI arrest from 2017 was expunged in 2022. Google still showed a news article about the original arrest. We provided the news publisher with the official expungement paperwork, and they removed the link within five days.
Once it was removed from their site we were able to have Google remove it from search results as well.
How Long Does It Take for Google to Remove Expunged Records?
Once submitted, Google usually responds within days to weeks. Most requests are handled quickly if your documentation is clear and official.
Final Tips for Faster Removal
- Double-check URLs and documents before submitting.
- Respond quickly if Google requests more information.
- Contact websites first; Google’s removal is quicker if the original content no longer exists.
By clearly and thoroughly following these steps, you can move forward without your past mistakes lingering online.
