Beginning July 1, 2025, Virginia background checks will forever be different. Virginia’s new record sealing laws go into effect on July 1, 2025, and give people the ability to seal qualifying criminal convictions and remove them from background checks run by employers. With the implementation of Virginia’s new record sealing laws, individuals will have more control over their past, leading to profound impacts on employment, housing, and other critical life opportunities. Clean Slate Virginia is dedicated to guiding you through these changes to help you seize the opportunities that come with a fresh start and a clean background check.

How Will Virginia Background Checks Change?

Under the new law, certain criminal convictions can be sealed, which means they will no longer appear in most Virginia background checks conducted by employers, landlords, or other entities. This major policy shift aims to break down barriers that often prevent individuals from leading productive lives by increasing employment with clean background checks.

What Does Record Sealing Entail?

Record sealing in Virginia means that while the record still exists in a legal sense, it will not be accessible to the general public. It will be hidden from typical background checks in Virginia, giving individuals a chance to move forward without the weight of past mistakes.

Who Qualifies for Record Sealing?

The new laws include provisions for:

• Felony Convictions: No new criminal convictions within the past 10 years.
• Misdemeanor Convictions: No new criminal convictions within the past 7 years.
• Rehabilitation Proof: Evidence of rehabilitation if the record shows drug dependence.
• Previous Record Sealing: No more than two prior convictions have been sealed.
• Manifest Injustice: The continued existence of the conviction must be shown to cause manifest injustice.
• Severe Felony Restrictions: Never convicted of a Class 1 or 2 felony, or any charge carrying a life sentence.
• Class 3 or 4 Felonies: No convictions of Class 3 or 4 felonies within the past 20 years.
• General Felony Restriction: No felony convictions within the past 10 years. These laws ensure that individuals with eligible past convictions or dismissed cases will see significant changes when Virginia background checks are performed.

Why This Change Matters

Virginia background checks have long been a source of stress for those with a past criminal record, often limiting opportunities for employment, housing, and personal growth. By sealing these records, individuals can finally break free from the stigma and obstacles created by their history. The benefits include:

Enhanced Employment Prospects: Employers often use Virginia background checks to screen candidates. Sealing a record can lead to better job opportunities since potential employers won’t see certain past convictions.

Broader Housing Opportunities: Rental background checks can prevent individuals from securing housing. Sealed records will improve access to stable living conditions.

Greater Privacy: You gain more control over who knows about your past, helping reduce the social stigma and improve mental well-being.

How Clean Slate Virginia Can Help You Prepare

Clean Slate Virginia is committed to guiding you through the record sealing process so you can take full advantage of the upcoming changes to Virginia background checks. Here’s how Clean Slate Virginia can help:

• Eligibility Assessment: Clean Slate Virginia will assess your case to see if you qualify under the new laws.
• Expert Guidance: Clean Slate Virginia provides in-depth advice to ensure you understand your rights and the process involved.
• Application Assistance: Clean Slate Virginia will file for record sealing and represent you if your case requires court proceedings.
• Continued Support: Even after your record is sealed, Clean Slate Virginia offers continued advice on how to handle future Virginia background checks and maintain your sealed record.

Act Now for a Brighter Future

With the July 1, 2025, date fast approaching, now is the time to take control of your future. Clean Slate Virginia is here to help you navigate these new record sealing laws and prepare for a world where Virginia background checks no longer hold you back.

Contact Clean Slate Virginia today to learn more and start your journey toward a clean slate. Let Clean Slate Virginia be your partner in reclaiming your life and opportunities with confidence.