Expungement Costs Explained: Record Clearing Fees & Legal Help
Having a criminal record, whether it’s a misdemeanor or felony, can create lifelong barriers. From job rejections to housing denials, the lingering impact of an old conviction can be overwhelming. Yet, when people begin researching how much does it cost to expunge your record, they often hit a wall of confusing fees, legal jargon, and state-by-state inconsistencies.
This guide explores everything tied to expungement cost: legal fees, types of offenses, state filing fees, and the difference between sealing and expungement. Whether you're clearing a DUI or seeking felony expungement, this post will help you make smarter legal and financial decisions.
What Factors Influence the Cost of Expungement?
Understanding the components that affect the total record expungement cost is the first step toward a clean slate.
Misdemeanors vs. Felonies
The cost of misdemeanor expungement is typically lower due to simpler court processes. If you're wondering how much is it to expunge a misdemeanor, expect prices between $200 and $1,000 depending on your jurisdiction. For felonies, the stakes, and legal hurdles, are higher, often pushing costs beyond $2,000.
DUIs and Drug Offenses
The cost to expunge DUI convictions is generally moderate, but the process can become more complex depending on state-specific requirements. Some jurisdictions mandate substance abuse evaluations, court-ordered programs, or additional hearings before granting expungement, adding to both the timeline and cost.
Multiple Charges
Expunging more than one record typically raises overall costs due to increased legal preparation and coordination. Each charge may require a separate filing, which can lead to higher court fees and longer case timelines.
Example: A first-time DUI expungement in Florida may cost $750, but if paired with a probation violation, the expungement lawyer cost may double due to added court appearances.
Which type of charge do you believe should be automatically expunged after a period of good behavior?
Do All States Charge the Same Expungement Fees?
State-level rules can drastically affect how much does an expungement cost.
Flat State Fees
Some states, like California, charge between $60–$150 just to file a request. Others, like Texas, offer free expungement for certain non-conviction records.
Court Costs and Fingerprinting
Some states tack on mandatory fingerprinting, background checks, and administrative fees, adding $100–$250 to the total.
Subsidy Programs
Several states offer financial assistance for expungement through subsidy programs or fee waivers. These are typically available to individuals below a certain income threshold and may cover court filing fees, background checks, or even required legal evaluations. These programs are designed to ensure that financial hardship doesn’t prevent someone from clearing eligible records and gaining a second chance.
Did you now? According to the Collateral Consequences Resource Center, fewer than 15% of eligible individuals in the U.S. seek expungement, often due to cost barriers.
“State-by-state disparity in expungement costs creates unequal access to justice,” notes a criminal law researcher from Harvard.
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How Much Does an Expungement Lawyer Cost?
Legal support can be crucial, but expungement attorney cost varies widely based on complexity and expertise.
Flat Fees
Many attorneys offer flat rates ranging from $500 to $1,500 for misdemeanor expungements, making costs more predictable. For felony cases, flat fees typically increase to $1,500–$3,500 or higher, depending on case complexity and jurisdictional requirements.
Hourly Billing
Under hourly billing, lawyers may charge $150 to $400 per hour, which can quickly add up in complicated cases. However, clients with simpler records may save money if the process requires minimal time and legal intervention.
Bundled Services
Some law firms provide bundled expungement packages that cover consultations, record checks, court appearances, and paperwork filing. These packages can offer better overall value, especially for those seeking a one-stop solution.
“Hiring an experienced expungement attorney may double your chances of approval, especially for felony charges or if you’ve had probation violations.”
Felony vs. Misdemeanor Expungement Costs
The price to expunge record isn’t one-size-fits-all, especially when comparing different types of convictions.
How much does it cost to get a felony expunged?
Expunging a felony can be a complex and costly process. For violent or intricate cases, total costs may exceed $3,000. This amount typically includes attorney fees, mandatory court filings, psychological evaluations, and multiple court hearings. The severity and type of felony can also influence whether additional documentation or expert testimony is required.
How much is it to get your record expunged for a misdemeanor?
The cost to expunge a misdemeanor is generally more affordable, often ranging from $200 to $1,000. This includes local court filing fees, background checks, and, if needed, legal representation. Some jurisdictions even offer reduced fees or fee waivers for first-time offenders or low-income applicants.
How much does expungement cost for misdemeanor vs felony?
Misdemeanor expungements are typically 50–70% less expensive than felony expungements. This is due to fewer legal complexities, reduced court involvement, and shorter timelines. Felony cases usually demand more extensive documentation and longer court proceedings, which significantly drives up the cost.
Did you now? In Michigan, felony expungements have risen by 70% since the 2021 “Clean Slate” law passed, highlighting rising legal demand.
Should the severity of a crime dictate expungement cost, or should all individuals have equal access to second chances?
Is Sealing Your Record Cheaper Than Expungement?
Record sealing is sometimes a more affordable legal route, but not always.
How much does it cost to get a felony expunged?
Expunging a felony can be a complex and costly process. For violent or intricate cases, total costs may exceed $3,000. This amount typically includes attorney fees, mandatory court filings, psychological evaluations, and multiple court hearings. The severity and type of felony can also influence whether additional documentation or expert testimony is required.
How much is it to get your record expunged for a misdemeanor?
The cost to expunge a misdemeanor is generally more affordable, often ranging from $200 to $1,000. This includes local court filing fees, background checks, and, if needed, legal representation. Some jurisdictions even offer reduced fees or fee waivers for first-time offenders or low-income applicants.
How much does expungement cost for misdemeanor vs felony?
Misdemeanor expungements are typically 50–70% less expensive than felony expungements. This is due to fewer legal complexities, reduced court involvement, and shorter timelines. Felony cases usually demand more extensive documentation and longer court proceedings, which significantly drives up the cost.
“Sealing your record may still limit your housing or job prospects in sensitive industries, like healthcare or finance.”
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DIY Expungement: Saving Money or Risky Move?
Many people consider handling their expungement without an attorney, but is it worth the risk?
Pros
Handling your own expungement without an attorney can lead to significant cost savings, typically between $500 and $2,000. You maintain full control over your documents and the application timeline, which some individuals find empowering. For those with straightforward cases, a DIY approach can be an efficient and affordable solution.
Cons
Self-representation carries serious risks. Common pitfalls include misfiling paperwork, misunderstanding eligibility requirements, or missing critical court deadlines. Any of these mistakes can lead to a denied petition, potentially delaying your expungement for months or even years. In some cases, a denial may impact your ability to reapply.
States With Free Templates
Some states, like Ohio and Illinois, provide free online expungement forms and step-by-step instructions to assist residents. These resources can help applicants avoid common mistakes, but they often assume a baseline level of legal understanding. While helpful, they don’t replace expert advice in more complex cases.
“Even minor paperwork errors can set you back months, having legal guidance is like having a map through a maze.”
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Financial Assistance and Free Expungement Clinics
For those unable to pay, options do exist to reduce or eliminate expungement costs.
Legal Aid Groups
Numerous nonprofit legal organizations provide free or low-cost expungement services for individuals who meet specific income requirements. These groups often have attorneys and trained legal staff who guide applicants through paperwork, court filings, and eligibility assessments. They're especially valuable for those who can't afford private counsel but still need professional support.
University Law Clinics
Many law schools operate legal clinics that offer free expungement assistance, often through public events or by appointment. These services are typically managed by law students working under the supervision of licensed attorneys, combining academic training with real-world impact. For eligible individuals, it's a reliable resource backed by legal oversight.
Sliding Scale Firms
Certain private law firms offer flexible pricing through sliding scale models. These adjust legal fees based on a client’s income, case type, or complexity, making professional legal help more accessible. This option bridges the gap for individuals who may not qualify for free aid but still struggle with standard legal costs.
Did you now? Over 45% of people eligible for expungement never apply due to cost concerns or lack of knowledge (National Expungement Works, 2022).
“Justice delayed by poverty is justice denied, legal relief shouldn’t be a luxury.”
FAQs
How much does it cost to expunge your record?
Costs range from $200 to over $3,500, depending on the charge, state laws, and whether you hire a lawyer. Some states offer reduced fees or waivers for low-income individuals, but others require court filing fees, background checks, and administrative costs. Expungement clinics and nonprofit legal aid services can sometimes help reduce the overall cost.
How much do lawyers charge for expungement?
Expungement lawyer fees typically fall between $500 and $3,500, depending on the complexity of the case, the attorney’s experience, and local market rates. Cases involving multiple charges or convictions generally cost more due to additional paperwork and court time. Some attorneys offer flat fees, while others may charge hourly.
How much is it to get your record expunged?
For misdemeanors, expect to pay between $200 and $1,000. For felony expungements, costs start around $1,500 and can go much higher, especially for complicated cases. Additional costs may include fingerprinting, certified copies, and processing fees imposed by the court system.
How much does it cost to seal your record?
Sealing a record can cost between $100 and $1,000, depending on your jurisdiction and the type of offense. Unlike expungement, sealing often has different eligibility requirements and procedures, which may affect pricing. Filing fees, legal assistance, and fingerprinting are often part of the total cost.
Is felony expungement more expensive than a misdemeanor?
Yes, felony expungement is usually more expensive, often costing twice or even three times more than a misdemeanor. This is due to the greater legal complexity, longer processing times, and increased documentation required. Felony cases often involve additional hearings or opposition from prosecutors, which can drive up legal fees.
Ready to Reclaim Your Future?
Getting your record cleared can feel overwhelming, but the rewards far outweigh the costs. Whether you're budgeting for a felony expungement cost, wondering how much is it to get your record expunged, or comparing lawyer fees for expungement, knowledge is your strongest ally.
Wondering What’s Really Holding You Back? Old records, hidden data, and inconsistent background checks can silently block your opportunities. Sequenxa Origin helps you uncover what employers and agencies actually see, and gives you the tools to fix it.
References
National Expungement Works. (2022). Expungement accessibility study. Retrieved fromhttps://www.nationalexpungementweek.org
Collateral Consequences Resource Center. (2023). Expungement by state. Retrieved fromhttps://ccresourcecenter.org
American Bar Association. (2023). Criminal record relief programs. Retrieved fromhttps://www.americanbar.org
