Washington Vacate-Conviction Attorneys
Last updated: May 2026
Washington does not use the term "expungement" for adult convictions. The closest remedy is "vacation" under RCW 9.94A.640 (felonies) or RCW 9.96.060 (misdemeanors and gross misdemeanors). A vacated conviction may be answered as if it never happened for most purposes, and most employers cannot consider it. The record itself is not destroyed but it is removed from most public databases and is no longer reported as a conviction.
Who is eligible?
Misdemeanor and gross misdemeanor convictions: generally eligible after 3 years (misdemeanor) or 5 years (DV-related gross misdemeanor) from completion of all sentence terms, with no new convictions or pending charges during the waiting period.
Class B felonies: eligible after 10 years from discharge with no new convictions; Class C felonies: 5 years. Certain offenses are excluded — most violent offenses, sex offenses, and certain DUI-related felonies cannot be vacated.
The motion process
The attorney files a Motion to Vacate in the court where the conviction occurred. The prosecutor receives notice and may oppose. A hearing is set. If granted, the court enters an order vacating the conviction, releasing the petitioner from disabilities resulting from the conviction.
After vacation, the petitioner may state that they have not been convicted of the offense for most employment and housing purposes. Law enforcement and certain regulators can still see the record.
What vacation does not do
Vacation does not seal the underlying court file (separate sealing motions exist), does not automatically restore firearm rights (a separate firearm-rights restoration petition is required for felonies), and does not erase the record from federal databases without additional steps.
Frequently asked questions
How long does vacation take?
Typically 60 to 180 days from filing depending on county and prosecutor response. Contested motions take longer.
How much does it cost?
Court filing fees vary by county. Attorney fees depend on the attorney, the complexity of your case, and any related charges — ask any lawyer you contact for a written quote before you hire them.
Does vacation restore my right to own a firearm?
No. Felony firearm rights restoration is a separate petition under RCW 9.41.040. An attorney can file both together when appropriate.
Can I vacate multiple convictions?
Yes, each conviction is evaluated separately. If they were in different courts, separate motions are typically required.
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