Designate to Misdemeanor Application

Designating to a misdemeanor is a legal remedy that lets you convert an undesignated class 6 offense into a class 1 misdemeanor after you complete probation. An undesignated class 6 offense sits in a confusing middle ground, and employers and background checks often read it as a felony even when the law treats it as a misdemeanor for most purposes. Designating it down removes that gray area and updates the court record to a clear misdemeanor.

This option may be available to people who pleaded to or were convicted of an undesignated class 6 offense and have successfully completed probation, including any fines or fees. It helps when a felony label is costing you jobs, housing, or professional licenses, and it also shortens your record-sealing wait from five years to three. If you are still on probation, you may need to terminate probation early first, which then lets you designate and start the shorter sealing clock. The judge reviews your request under the law and considers the original offense, your completion of probation, and your conduct since.

Designate to Misdemeanor Frequently Asked Questions

What can I do if my record shows an undesignated class 6 offense? You may be able to designate it to a class 1 misdemeanor, which removes the felony label and shows a misdemeanor on background checks.

What can I do if a felony on my record is costing me jobs? If it is an undesignated class 6 offense and you have completed probation, designating it to a misdemeanor shows employers a misdemeanor instead of a felony.

What can I do if I want to seal my record faster? Designating a class 6 offense to a class 1 misdemeanor cuts your sealing wait from five years to three, so you can clear it sooner.

What can I do if I am still on probation? You usually need to finish probation first. You may be able to terminate probation early, then designate the offense and start the shorter sealing clock.

What can I do if I am not sure whether my offense qualifies? Each case is different. A quick review of your plea and sentence will confirm whether your offense was left undesignated and is eligible to designate.

What can I do after my offense is designated to a misdemeanor? You can update job and housing applications to reflect a misdemeanor, and you can begin the shorter three-year wait to seal the record entirely.