Clearing a criminal record can be very important.   A criminal record can preclude you from getting a job, getting housing, or even coaching little league.    The issue is that every state has their own unique laws on clearing a criminal record.   Michael Baker, an attorney in Arizona has created a very cool interactive map that gives a quick synopsis on the expungement laws for every state in the Country.    Just hover over any state and it will give you a brief outline of their set aside laws.   You can find the map on his website :  http://www.expungementsusa.com/expunge-map/