Some state convictions can be expunged, but the rules are strict. First-offense felonies typically become eligible after a 10-year waiting period (5 years for misdemeanors) with no subsequent convictions. Plea structures like filings, deferred sentences, and successfully completed nolo pleas can allow earlier dismissal and sealing. Federal convictions for identity theft or aggravated identity theft under 18 U.S.C. § 1028A are effectively not expungeable - federal law has no general expungement mechanism for fraud convictions, which is one more reason the state-versus-federal forum decision is everything. Expungement planning starts at the plea, not years after. The plea language and sentencing structure have to be built for that result from the beginning.
