Virginia Beach Expungement Attorney

Call (757) 267-4949 for a Consultation

Expungement is a process in which your record of arrest or conviction is erased or concealed from the public. After your record has been expunged, criminal convictions and arrests are no longer required to be disclosed on applications for a job or apartment.

Additionally, your convictions will remain absent from background checks conducted by potential employers and educational institutions. Having your record expunged can help you overcome the social stigma that comes with a criminal conviction or arrest.

Call (757) 267-4949 for a consultation with an expungement attorney near you.

Is an Expunged Record Really Erased?

In the literal sense of the word, an expunged conviction is not completely erased. Expunged charges can still be viewed by government agencies, law enforcement, and criminal courts. This limited access to your record is sometimes called being "under seal." Some legal proceedings might consider an expungement that is under seal to be proof of a prior conviction.

Eligibility for Expungement

Recently, Virginia adjusted the eligibility requirements for expungement. As of July 1st, 2021, individuals with criminal records can petition the court to expunge low-grade felony and misdemeanor convictions, as well as dismissals. Previously, these types of charges would remain on an individual's record.

To petition the court to expunge a low-grade felony, misdemeanor, or dismissal from your record, you must meet the following requirements:

• You have never been convicted of a class 1 or 2 felony, a class 3 or 4 felony within the last 20 years, or any felony within the last ten years;
• You can only file a petition to seal convictions or dismissals a total of twice in your lifetime. This includes petitions filed under the former expungement laws.

Additionally, you will have to show the court that you have made efforts to adjust your behavior. For example, if your conviction involved drugs or alcohol, you will need to demonstrate rehabilitation for the court to expunge your record.

In addition to the above requirements, whether or not your record qualifies for expungement depends on the following:

• State Jurisdiction
• The Nature of the Crime
• The Amount of Time that Has Passed Since the Conviction
• Criminal History

Our Virginia Beach expungement attorney can assess your case and determine if you qualify to have your record expunged. Expungement law is complicated and different jurisdictions have different requirements.

Understanding the Benefits of Expungement

Expungement offers individuals with a criminal record the opportunity to have their past mistakes erased, providing a fresh start and a clean slate. By clearing your record, you can enjoy the benefits of improved employment opportunities, housing options, and overall peace of mind.

Some of the key benefits of expungement include:

• Improved job prospects: Many employers conduct background checks, and having a clean record can make you a more attractive candidate for employment.
• Enhanced housing options: Landlords and property managers often perform background screenings, and a clean record can increase your chances of securing housing.
• Peace of mind: Expungement can provide emotional relief and a sense of closure, allowing you to move forward with confidence.
• Legal rights restoration: In some cases, expungement can restore certain rights, such as the ability to own a firearm or serve on a jury.

Contact Our Expungement Lawyers

Our experienced expungement attorney at The Law Offices of Daniel J. Miller can guide you through the process and help you understand the potential benefits of expunging your record. Contact us today for a consultation to discuss your eligibility and the next steps towards a clean record.

Call (757) 267-4949 for a consultation with an expungement lawyer near you.