Different states have different rules. This tip deals only with Oregon law.
If you have ever been arrested or convicted of a crime, you may be able to get the record set aside – or expunged. The first thing you should do is to contact an attorney to see if you are eligible. If you are, the attorney will need you to obtain a recent fingerprinting if you are setting aside a conviction. Google “fingerprinting” in your area and you will find many places to get this done. You will also need to sign an Affidavit, prepared by your attorney, stating things required under the law. The attorney will then file a Motion to Set Aside Conviction and/or Arrest along with the Affidavit and your fingerprints. Expunction does not happen automatically after the passage of a certain amount of time; a motion needs to be filed.
You must pay a filing fee and a fee for the State Police to run your fingerprints if getting a conviction expunged. These fees change every year or so; your attorney will be able to tell you how much the fees are currently.