Helpful Links to Expungement Information for each Circuit
All counties without specific application forms use the general South Carolina State form found on sccourts.org
All counties without specific application forms use the general South Carolina State form found on sccourts.org
In this Classroom you will learn about the steps you can take in South Carolina to file an expungement.
Start by watching our Clark video below that overviews the expungement process.
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 will need to obtain the application from the South Carolina Department of Probation, Parole, and Pardon Services. It can be downloaded in a fillable format at www.dppps.sc.gov. To accompany the application you will need:
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.
If your charges are not eligible for expungement or is just not the right remedy for your situation, you make seek a pardon.
A pardon is the state's forgiveness for your criminal record. While this option will not remove the convictions from your record, you will be relieved from the collateral consequences.
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.