Can You Expunge a DUI in Michigan? A Guide for 15th District Court (Ann Arbor)

If you've ever searched for "how to expunge a DUI in Michigan," "Michigan DUI forgiveness," or "can you get a DUI expunged in Michigan," your search ends here. Michigan law now allows eligible first-offense OWI (Operating While Intoxicated) convictions to be set aside, and if your case occurred in Ann Arbor, the 15th Judicial District Court is where you’ll file your petition.

At our firm, we guide individuals with empathy and clarity—because making a mistake doesn't define your character. We help you understand how you arrived at this moment, and support you as you reclaim your story and move forward stronger.

What Areas Does the 15th District Court Cover?

The 15th District Court serves the City of Ann Arbor. All misdemeanor, traffic, and DUI/OWI cases arising within Ann Arbor fall under its jurisdiction—making it the central venue for anyone seeking DUI expungement there 

Who Are the Judges at the 15th District Court in 2025?

• Judge S. Kerene Moore
• Chief Judge Karen Quinlan Valvo
• Judge Miriam A. Perry

Can a DUI Be Expunged in Michigan?

Yes. Under Michigan law (MCL 780.621), you can apply to set aside a first-time OWI conviction if:

• It was your first and only DUI/OWI offense.
• At least five years have passed since the date your sentence, probation, or incarceration ended.
• You have no new criminal convictions in that time.

Certain serious offenses, such as DUI with injury or death, are excluded. But for a typical first-time OWI conviction, expungement is legally possible—and can be transformative.

What Ann Arbor Judges Consider Critical?

Judges Moore, Perry, and Quinlan Valvo expect well-prepared petitions. Clear documentation, personal accountability, and credible rehabilitation stories stand out. A strong petition is more than legal—it’s your chance to make a true impression, not just apologize.

Why Expungement Matters

A cleared DUI record can open doors to new opportunities—jobs, housing, education, and a renewed sense of possibility. More importantly, it gives you a path to restore your dignity and tell your full story—not your worst moment.

Ready to Move Forward?

If your DUI conviction happened within Ann Arbor jurisdiction, you may now be eligible for expungement in the 15th District Court. The process requires patience, thoughtful preparation, and a commitment to showing how you've grown. When your petition comes before Judges Moore, Perry, or Quinlan Valvo, how you present your progress matters.
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We’re here to walk with you—guiding every step so that when you stand in court, you’re not just asking for forgiveness—you’re showing how you’ve changed.