VIRGINIA RECORD SEALING

Record sealing attorney for Virginia Beach, Chesapeake and Norfolk

An old criminal record can affect work, housing and other opportunities. Attorney Brook M. Thibault and The Coastal Virginia Law Firm help Hampton Roads residents explore whether Virginia law provides a way to restrict public access to eligible records.

Can I seal my record?
Start with the exact charge, statute, offense date and final disposition. Automatic sealing and sealing by petition have different rules. A conviction, deferred dismissal and acquittal may require different approaches. A waiting period alone does not establish eligibility.

Virginia Code § 19.2-392.12:1
This section provides a petition procedure for certain listed charges and convictions, along with related ancillary matters. Subsection A covers specified offenses involving underage alcohol, misdemeanor larceny or concealment, trespass, certain marijuana offenses, paraphernalia and disorderly conduct. Not every offense in those broad categories qualifies.

For a subsection A petition, the statute requires seven years since conviction or dismissal of the deferred charge, without the disqualifying convictions described in the statute during that period. Related matters and other cases disposed of on the same date can affect eligibility. Subsection B separately addresses certain ancillary matters connected to records already sealed through specified procedures.

The petition is filed in the circuit court where the case was disposed of. The process includes notice to the Commonwealth’s Attorney and a criminal-history record request. Section 19.2-392.12:1 waives court filing fees and costs for petitions under that section; attorney fees are separate. Other petition-based relief may be available under § 19.2-392.12, subject to its own requirements.

Local help in Hampton Roads
Whether your case was in Virginia Beach, Chesapeake or Norfolk, we begin by reviewing the court and disposition. Your current home address does not necessarily determine where a sealing petition belongs. Our office is at 2388 Liberty Way, Suite 200, Virginia Beach.

Sealing is separate from expungement and does not itself restore firearm rights. Some records remain available for legally authorized purposes. We explain the limits as well as the potential benefits.

Call 888-402-7117 or use the inquiry form to request a consultation. Briefly identify the court and service you need. Do not send Social Security numbers or sensitive records with your first inquiry. General information only; eligibility and results depend on your circumstances.