Can You Expunge a Manslaughter Charge in Georgia? What You Need to Know

If you’ve ever faced a serious criminal charge like manslaughter in Georgia, the long-term consequences can follow you even if you’ve served your time, completed probation, or the charge was ultimately dismissed. A criminal record can severely impact your ability to find work, secure housing, or move on with your life. One question many people have is whether it’s possible to expunge (or legally restrict) a manslaughter charge in Georgia.

The answer depends heavily on the outcome of your case and the specific circumstances surrounding the charge. That is what our Atlanta Manslaughter Defense Attorneys are here to help with at The Spizman Firm.

What Is Manslaughter Under Georgia Law?

Manslaughter in Georgia falls into two categories:

• Voluntary Manslaughter (O.C.G.A. § 16-5-2): Occurs when someone kills another person in the heat of passion due to serious provocation.
• Involuntary Manslaughter (O.C.G.A. § 16-5-3): Occurs when someone unintentionally causes a death while committing a lawful or unlawful act.

Both are felonies, with voluntary manslaughter carrying a sentence of up to 20 years and involuntary manslaughter punishable by up to 10 years in prison.

What Does “Expungement” Mean in Georgia?

Georgia does not use the term “expungement” in the traditional sense. Instead, it allows for record restriction, which limits who can view your criminal history. Once restricted, your record will no longer appear in most background checks conducted by private employers or landlords, though it remains visible to law enforcement and certain government agencies.

Can You Restrict or Expunge a Manslaughter Charge?

Under Georgia law, felony convictions—including those for manslaughter—generally cannot be restricted or expunged if they resulted in a conviction. However, there are some limited exceptions:

1. The Charge Was Dismissed, Dropped, or You Were Acquitted
   If your manslaughter charge did not lead to a conviction, you may be eligible for record restriction. For example:

• If the prosecutor dismissed the case
• If the grand jury declined to indict you
• If you were found not guilty at trial

1. Pre-Conviction Diversion or Conditional Discharge
   While uncommon for serious charges like manslaughter, if you were enrolled in a diversion program or received a conditional discharge and successfully completed the terms, you might qualify for restriction.
2. Pardons and Post-Conviction Relief
   If you were convicted and later received a pardon from the State Board of Pardons and Paroles, you may petition the court to seal your record. However, this does not erase the conviction—it only limits public access under narrow circumstances and is not guaranteed.

You Don’t Have to Navigate This Alone

If you’re dealing with the burden of a manslaughter charge—whether it led to a conviction or not—it’s important to consult an experienced criminal defense attorney who understands Georgia’s evolving laws on record restriction and post-conviction relief.

At The Spizman Firm, we have years of experience helping clients seek a fresh start. We will evaluate your case, explain your options, and fight to protect your future. We proudly serve clients across Georgia, including Atlanta, Dunwoody, Alpharetta, Cobb County, Fulton County, Gwinnett County, Johns Creek, and Sandy Springs. Contact us today for a confidential consultation.