Most Rhode Island criminal records can be expunged after the statutory waiting period, with some categorical exclusions. Eligible records include most misdemeanors, most non-violent felonies, acquittals and dismissals (often eligible for automatic expungement under the Second Chance Law), no-file decisions by prosecutors, and convictions for offenses since decriminalized. Records that generally CANNOT be expunged include crimes of violence (sexual assault, murder, kidnapping, robbery, burglary), offenses against children, and driving offenses resulting in injury or death. DUI convictions have complex separate rules. Consulting with an expungement lawyer is the most reliable way to evaluate your eligibility.
