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Comparison guide

Clean My Past vs expungement lawyer vs legal aid vs DIY

A practical comparison of Clean My Past, private attorneys, legal aid, and DIY filing for record clearing.

Direct answer

Clean My Past is best for structured, software-fit workflows in supported states. Lawyers are best for advice and complex cases. Legal aid is best when available and you qualify. DIY is best for simple cases where you can confidently use official forms.

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Clean My PastSoftware-guided screening, documents, tracking, cleanup
LawyerAdvice, representation, hearings, strategy
DIYLowest cost but highest self-navigation burden

Side-by-side fit

  • Use Clean My Past for supported states, clear facts, user-driven filing, and post-order cleanup.
  • Use a lawyer for contested cases, hearings, immigration, licensing, firearms, appeals, or unusual history.
  • Use legal aid if you qualify and need no-cost help.
  • Use DIY forms when the court provides clear forms and you are comfortable filing without software.

Cost and control

Software is usually lower cost than private counsel and more structured than loose DIY. The tradeoff is that software cannot advise, negotiate, appear in court, or guarantee outcomes.

Why people combine options

Some users start with software to organize facts and documents, then consult a lawyer if the case is flagged as complex. Others use legal aid for court relief and Clean My Past for FCRA cleanup afterward.

FAQ

Fast answers

Is Clean My Past a substitute for a lawyer?

No. It is software for supported workflows, not legal advice or representation.

When is legal aid better?

Legal aid is best if you qualify, the organization covers your issue, and appointments are available.

Can I switch from software to a lawyer later?

Yes. You can use your organized records and filings to make attorney review easier.

Last reviewed 2026-06-03. Clean My Past is software, not a law firm. This guide is informational and is not legal advice. State laws, agency policies, platform rules, and consumer-reporting practices change, so confirm details on the official source before relying on them. For legal advice, consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction.