Wisconsin Expungement Laws 2026
Wisconsin expungement and record-sealing laws: eligibility, waiting periods, and how to clear a criminal record in Wisconsin.
Wisconsin allows certain criminal records to be cleared or sealed. The relief is called "Expungement", governed by Wis. Stat. § 973.015.
At a glance
| Detail | Wisconsin |
|---|---|
| Relief available | Expungement |
| Statute | Wis. Stat. § 973.015 |
| Automatic clearing? | No — a court petition is required |
| Waiting period | At sentencing for under-25; wait for others |
| Eligible records | Some convictions for those under 25; others by petition |
| Process | Court orders expungement at sentencing or by petition |
Who is eligible
Some convictions for those under 25; others by petition.
How the process works
Court orders expungement at sentencing or by petition.
Source and last verified
Statute: Wis. Stat. § 973.015. Last verified: 2026-08-04. Laws change — confirm the current rule with the Wisconsin records authority before acting.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is record clearing called in Wisconsin?
In Wisconsin, the relief is called "Expungement", governed by Wis. Stat. § 973.015.
How long do I wait before clearing a record in Wisconsin?
At sentencing for under-25; wait for others.
Who can clear a record in Wisconsin?
Some convictions for those under 25; others by petition.
Does Wisconsin clear records automatically?
No — in Wisconsin you generally must file a petition and obtain a court order before a record is cleared.