Table of Contents
- Overview of Expungement Costs in Virginia
- Circuit Court Filing Fees
- Fingerprinting Costs
- Attorney Fees for Expungement
- DIY Approach: Filing Without a Lawyer
- Fee Waivers for Those Who Cannot Afford Filing
- Hidden Costs to Watch Out For
- Cost Comparison: DIY vs. Lawyer
- How to Save Money on Your Expungement
If you are considering sealing your record in Virginia, one of the first questions on your mind is likely about cost. The total expense of an expungement can vary significantly depending on which path you choose.
Overview of Expungement Costs in Virginia
- Court filing fee: Approximately $86
- Fingerprinting: $15 to $50
- Attorney fees: $1,000 to $2,500 or more
- DIY with SealMyRecordVirginia.com: $199 plus court costs
Circuit Court Filing Fees
You should expect to pay approximately $86 to file your expungement petition.
Fingerprinting Costs
Most people pay between $15 and $50 for fingerprinting.
Attorney Fees for Expungement
Typical attorney fees range from $1,000 to $2,500 or more.
Watch out: Some attorneys charge consultation fees just to evaluate your case.
DIY Approach: Filing Without a Lawyer
Using SealMyRecordVirginia.com
Total cost: approximately $140 to $175. A significant savings compared to hiring an attorney.
Fee Waivers for Those Who Cannot Afford Filing
Virginia law provides options for requesting a fee waiver for individuals who demonstrate financial hardship.
Hidden Costs to Watch Out For
- Certified copies of court records
- Service of process
- Transportation and parking
- Time off work
- Criminal history report ($15)
Cost Comparison: DIY vs. Lawyer
Hiring an Attorney: $1,121 to $2,686+
DIY with SealMyRecordVirginia.com: $160 to $225
Completely DIY: $121 to $186
The savings can be $900 to $2,400 or more.
How to Save Money on Your Expungement
- Use a legal technology service
- Apply for a fee waiver
- Get fingerprinted at a law enforcement office
- Obtain your own court records
- File multiple charges in the same jurisdiction together