Wichita Bail Bonds Blog

Felonies often stay on a person’s criminal record permanently. In most states, including Kansas, felony convictions remain visible unless the court grants an expungement. An expungement is a legal process that removes or seals a conviction from public records, allowing the person to move forward without the burden of a lifelong criminal record. In case a felony can be cleared depends on the severity of the crime, the sentence served, and how long it has been since the case ended.

Felonies That Stay For Life

Some felony convictions cannot be expunged or removed under any circumstances. These include serious and violent offenses that pose a high public safety concern.

• Murder or voluntary manslaughter
• Sexual assault or offenses involving minors
• Crimes involving child abuse or exploitation
• Offenses requiring lifetime registration, such as certain sex crimes
• Severe violent felonies under Kansas law

When Felonies May Be Expunged

Less severe felonies may qualify for expungement after a waiting period. In Kansas, most non-violent felonies can be cleared after a set number of years if all court requirements are satisfied and no new crimes have occurred.

• Many non-violent felonies are eligible after 3 to 10 years
• All court costs, fines, and restitution must be paid
• The individual must have no new criminal charges or convictions
• Rehabilitation, employment, and community involvement may support approval

How An Expungement Works

The process of clearing a felony involves filing a formal petition with the district court. The judge reviews your record, past behavior, and eligibility before making a decision. If approved, the record is sealed from public view, though law enforcement and courts still retain access.

• File a petition for expungement in the same county where convicted
• Notify the district attorney and relevant law enforcement agencies
• Attend a hearing if the judge requests one
• Receive a final order of expungement if approved

Effects Of An Expunged Felony

Once a felony is expunged, it is no longer visible in standard background checks. You may legally state that you have not been convicted of that offense, except in limited legal or government situations.

• Improves chances for employment and housing
• Restores certain civil rights, depending on the offense
• May allow firearm rights to be reconsidered after review
• The record is still visible to law enforcement and courts

Why Some Felonies Cannot Be Removed

Crimes involving violence, death, or sexual offenses are considered permanent due to their serious nature. Courts keep these convictions accessible to protect public safety and prevent repeat offenses from going untracked.

• Protects victims and the community
• Ensures repeat offenders are properly monitored
• Prevents serious crimes from being hidden from legal review