Free Expungement Help in Virginia
Last reviewed: May 27, 2026
Virginia charges $84 per charge — so a record with five charges costs $420 just to file. That's why the fee waiver matters more in Virginia than almost any other state. Virginia also has automatic sealing phasing in under the 2021 reforms, so some records may already be sealed. Legal Aid Justice Center is excellent for Virginia expungement — they specifically track the automatic sealing rollout.
⚠️ Clean Slate / Automatic Sealing
Virginia's 2021 reform created automatic sealing for some marijuana convictions; broader automatic sealing for misdemeanors phased in through 2025–2026.
How to get a fee waiver in Virginia
In forma pauperis affidavit waives the $84-per-charge filing fee. Virginia's per-charge fee model means multiple charges can get expensive fast — the waiver is important.
Fee waivers (also called Affidavit of Indigency or In Forma Pauperis petition) are typically available if your household income is at or below 125–200% of the federal poverty level, or if you currently receive SNAP, Medicaid, SSI, TANF, or veterans benefits based on need.
Verified free legal aid organizations in Virginia
Every organization below is a verified non-profit or government-affiliated legal aid program. None are paid services. Always confirm your eligibility directly with the organization.
Free expungement help by city in Virginia
Free expungement resources vary significantly by metro area. Here's what's available in the largest cities, including clinic schedules and local contacts.
Richmond / Northern Virginia / Hampton Roads
Central Virginia Legal Aid covers Richmond, Chesterfield, Henrico, and surrounding counties. Legal Aid Justice Center covers Charlottesville, Richmond, and the Northern Virginia/DC metro area.
Virginia free expungement — frequently asked questions
How does automatic sealing work in Virginia?
Virginia's automatic sealing law (SB 5029/HB 5148 from 2021) seals certain misdemeanor and some felony convictions automatically after a clean period. The rollout is phased — not all records are sealed immediately. Marijuana convictions under the 2021 legalization law are sealed automatically. Check with the Virginia State Police CCRE (Criminal History Record Information) to confirm your status.
More Virginia expungement resources
- Complete Virginia expungement guide → — eligibility, process, statutes, and timelines
- How much does expungement cost? (state-by-state)
- What shows up on a background check after expungement?
- ← All states: free expungement help directory