Criminal records & expungement
If Charges Are Dismissed, Do You Still Have a Record?
Last updated June 13, 2026
- Often yes — the arrest and the dismissed charge can still appear on your record even though you weren't convicted.
- A dismissal means no conviction, but it doesn't automatically erase the arrest record.
- Many states let you expunge or seal a dismissed charge, sometimes quickly and sometimes automatically.
- Background-check companies may keep reporting it until the record is formally cleared.
attorney records across 37 states are searchable on this site right now.
Source: official state bar registration rosters.
Dismissal ends the case, not the record
When charges are dismissed you're not convicted — an important distinction. But the event still happened: you were arrested and charged, and those entries can remain in court and law-enforcement databases. Unless your state clears them automatically, a background check can still surface the arrest and the dismissed charge.
Clearing a dismissed charge
The good news: dismissals and acquittals are usually the easiest records to expunge or seal, and some states do it automatically or on a short timeline. You typically petition the court to expunge the arrest record. Once granted, you can also provide the order to background-check companies still reporting it.
Why it's worth doing
A visible arrest — even one that ended in dismissal — can affect jobs and housing, since not every screener distinguishes 'dismissed' from 'convicted' at a glance. Clearing it removes the ambiguity. An expungement attorney can handle the petition; verify their license first, free.
Looking to clear your record?
Expungement and record-sealing rules vary by state and an expungement attorney can tell you if you qualify. Before you hire anyone, you can verify their license and disciplinary record here for free.
Frequently asked questions
Does a dismissed charge show up on a background check?
It can. A dismissal prevents a conviction, but the arrest and charge may still appear unless the record is expunged or sealed (or your state clears dismissals automatically).
Is it easier to expunge a dismissed charge than a conviction?
Usually yes. Dismissals and acquittals are typically the most straightforward records to clear, and some states provide automatic or expedited relief.
Do I have to do anything if my charge was dismissed?
Sometimes yes — in many states you must petition to expunge the arrest record; it isn't always automatic. Check your state's rules so a dismissed charge doesn't keep showing up.
Related guides
- Criminal Record Expungement: Costs, Timelines & How to Check
- Does a Misdemeanor Stay on Your Record?
- How Much Does Expungement Cost?
Numbers on this page are computed from official rosters — see our data sources & methodology. This guide is part of the criminal records & expungement series.
This site republishes official public records and is not legal advice, a lawyer referral service, or a consumer reporting agency. Information here may not be used to make decisions about employment, tenancy, or credit (FCRA). Records are shown as published by their official sources and may contain errors or be out of date; consult the linked official source to verify. To correct or dispute a record, contact the licensing authority of record.