The Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, the Senator, Hon. Kim Wilkerson JP, today announced that she has granted 16 expungements of criminal cannabis convictions under the Expungement of Convictions Act 2021 in her first year in office.
Expungement is the legal process of clearing convictions from a person’s criminal record for cannabis possession below 7 grams, as decriminalised in 2017 under the current government.
Attorney General Wilkerson stated: “For many Bermudians, expungement represents the chance to rebuild their lives, pursue new opportunities, and fully participate in our community. Over the course of my first year in office, I have had the privilege of granting 16 people that chance, in addition to the 27 granted before my tenure as Attorney-General. I encourage every Bermudian who qualifies to take the next step and apply. This Government is committed to fairness, rehabilitation, and ensuring that people who have earned a second chance can receive it.”
Attorney General Wilkerson added: “This is a fair and transparent process that has already helped 43 people obtain a fresh start. If you think you may qualify, visit www.gov.bm today or visit the Attorney General’s Chambers to collect an application form.”
How to Apply for Expungement
1. Application Submission
- In Person: Collect and submit the Expungement Application Form at the Attorney General’s Chambers.
- Online: Download and submit the form via the Government of Bermuda website: www.gov.bm.
2. Acknowledgement of Receipt
- Online submissions: Applicants will receive an automatic email confirming receipt.
- In-person submissions: Applicants will receive a date-stamped copy of their application for their records.
3. Transmission to the Bermuda Police Service (BPS)
The Attorney General’s Chambers will prepare a cover letter and forward it with the application to the Bermuda Police Service, requesting the applicant’s full criminal record.
4. Review of Criminal Record
The criminal history is reviewed to determine whether the conviction(s) meet the eligibility criteria for expungement.
5. Determination and Response
- Ineligible convictions: Applicants receive a refusal letter signed by the Attorney General.
- Eligible convictions: Applicants receive an approval letter and an official Expungement Order, with copies also provided to the BPS.
6. Recordkeeping
All application materials and decisions are securely maintained in accordance with records management policies.
For more information, visit:
or contact the Attorney General’s Chambers for guidance.