Records/Record Expungement

Yes, there will be a hearing.

The hearings generally last no more than twenty (20) minutes. They take place in front of a board of individuals appointed by the Governor of South Carolina. The board usually consists of 7  members, however only 5 out of those 7 need to  agree to grant you a pardon. The decision is usually given to you immediately after the hearing. 

To apply for a pardon you must complete a pardon application and return it to the South Carolina Department of Probation, Parole, and Pardon Services.

A pardon is the state’s forgiveness for your criminal record. When granted, you have been fully forgiven for your convictions listed on the submitted application. A pardon will relieve you from the collateral consequences of your record. However, it is important to note that pardoned charges will still appear on your criminal record, unlike an expunged charge.

Generally, to have a conviction expunged in South Carolina, you will need a total of $310. However, there may be instances where the fees are less, or at no cost to you. The fees must be in the form of money orders as no personal checks or cash will be accpeted.

Below is a table that gives you an idea of how much an expungement, per charge, would cost.