Do you qualify to clear a criminal record?
If you have a South African conviction for cannabis or another drug-possession offence, you may be able to have it expunged. Start with a free, non-binding screening question set - it takes about two minutes.
How this works
- A short, non-binding screening question set gives you an initial indication.
- If it looks like your matter may qualify, create an account and upload your documents.
- An LLB-qualified case worker reviews your file and prepares an application.
- An admitted attorney reviews and authorises your file before anything is lodged with an authority.
- We track the outcome and keep you updated.
This screening result is not legal advice and does not guarantee eligibility - only an attorney's signed-off opinion is binding. See Disclaimer.
Frequently asked questions
What convictions qualify for expungement under this process?
Primarily South African convictions for cannabis possession, use or cultivation for private purposes, and certain other drug-possession offences, that qualify under the Cannabis for Private Purposes Act 7 of 2024's automatic or application-based expungement routes.
What's the difference between the "automatic" and "application-based" routes?
Some qualifying convictions are expunged automatically by the Department, with no application needed. Others - typically older convictions or ones with specific circumstances - require a formal application. The free screening tells you which route your matter is likely to fall under.
Does the free screening guarantee I qualify?
No - it's a non-binding indication based on the facts you provide. Only an admitted attorney's signed-off opinion, after reviewing your actual court record, is a reliable answer. See our Disclaimer.
What documents will I need?
Typically your ID, and details of the conviction (court, case number, date, and offence). A certified copy of your SAPS criminal record or the charge sheet speeds things up considerably if you have it, but isn't always required to start.
How long does expungement typically take?
It varies by route and how quickly the Department and courts respond - the automatic route is generally faster since no application is filed, but timelines are outside our control once a matter is lodged with an authority.
Will this show up on a background/criminal record check afterwards?
Once formally expunged, the conviction is removed from your SAPS criminal record and should not reflect on a standard criminal record check. We track your case status until the outcome is confirmed.
Does the screening only cover cannabis convictions, or other drug offences too?
The Cannabis for Private Purposes Act 7 of 2024 is the primary route and covers cannabis specifically, but the screening also checks certain other drug-possession offences that may qualify under separate, narrower routes - tell us the actual offence and we'll assess which (if any) applies.
How many convictions can I screen at once?
You can screen every conviction you want assessed - each one is checked independently, since a person with multiple convictions may find some qualify and others don't.
Is there a cost for the screening itself?
No - the initial screening question set is free and non-binding. Fees for the case worker and attorney review of an actual application are set by the practice handling your matter.
What if my conviction is very old, or I no longer have any paperwork?
Tell us what you remember (approximate date, court, and offence) - we can often help locate the record. An old conviction with limited paperwork is common and doesn't rule out qualifying, it just may take longer to verify.
Can I track the status of my application once it's submitted?
Yes - once you create an account and your matter is lodged, you can log in at any time to see which stage it's at, from document collection through to the Department's decision.