Will a Dismissed Charge Stay on Your Record in Tennessee? (The Answer Could Surprise You)

Introduction

One of the most frustrating conversations I have with clients goes something like this:

“My case was dismissed. Why is it still showing up?”

People assume that if charges are dismissed, the record automatically disappears.

Unfortunately, that’s not always how it works.

And if you don’t take the right steps, a dismissed charge can continue showing up for years.

The Short Answer

Yes.

A dismissed criminal charge can still appear on:

• background checks
• court databases
• third-party websites
• internet search results

Unless additional action is taken.

Dismissed Does Not Mean Erased

This is one of the biggest misconceptions in criminal law.

When a case is dismissed:

👉 You won the case.

But the fact that the case existed may still remain in various records.

Many people discover this when applying for:

• jobs
• professional licenses
• housing
• loans

What Is Expungement?

Expungement is the legal process used to remove eligible criminal records from public view.

In many Tennessee cases, a dismissal may qualify for expungement.

When granted, the official record can often be removed from state databases.

The Problem With Third-Party Websites

Even after an expungement is granted, another issue remains.

Private background check companies may have already collected the information.

These companies often:

• copy public records
• store them in private databases
• continue reporting outdated information

This creates frustration for many people.

Why Does This Happen?

Because private companies are not always notified when a court later dismisses or expunges a case.

As a result:

👉 old information can continue circulating online.

Can You Remove It?

Sometimes.

After an expungement, many third-party companies will remove information if properly notified.

Others require:

• written requests
• supporting documentation
• proof of expungement

The process can take time.

The Biggest Mistake People Make

They assume:

“The judge dismissed my case. Everything is gone.”

Then years later they discover:

• an employer found it
• a landlord found it
• a background check company found it

The dismissal alone did not solve the entire problem.

Why This Matters in Nashville

In Nashville and throughout

Davidson County, Tennessee

thousands of criminal cases are dismissed every year.

Many people qualify for expungement but never file for it.

As a result, records that could have been removed remain visible.

The Reality

Winning the criminal case is only Step One.

Protecting your record may be Step Two.

And Step Two is often overlooked.

The Bottom Line

• Dismissed charges do not automatically disappear
• Expungement may be available
• Third-party websites may continue reporting old information
• Taking action early can protect your future

If your case was dismissed, don’t assume the problem solved itself.

About the Author

David G. Ridings is a Nashville criminal defense attorney with almost 30 years of criminal defense experience and nearly 40 years on every side of the criminal justice system.

He is a former Metro Nashville Police Officer, former prosecutor, and has served as a Night Court Judicial Magistrate since 2023.

Known online as DrJudge, he has educated hundreds of thousands of people about their rights during police encounters and has literally written the book on the subject, “I Don’t Answer Questions.”

Call to Action

If your case was dismissed and you’re wondering whether it can be expunged:

👉 Call 1-888-DRJUDGE

A dismissal is great. Making sure it stays out of your future is even better