Experienced Arlington Record Sealing and Expungement Lawyer

Navigating expungement and record sealing in Arlington County requires not only an understanding of Virginia law, but also familiarity with the unique procedures and layout of the local courthouse. Clean Slate Virginia helps Arlington residents clear eligible criminal records by guiding them through every step of the process, from determining eligibility to appearing in Arlington Circuit Court for required hearings.

Whether you are seeking expungement of a dismissed charge or preparing for record sealing under Virginia’s new Clean Slate law effective July 1, 2026, working with an attorney who knows Arlington’s court system can make a significant difference.

Why Work With an Arlington Expungement and Record Sealing Lawyer

Arlington County operates differently from many other Virginia jurisdictions when it comes to expungement practice. Understanding local expectations, clerk procedures, and courtroom logistics is critical.

• Clean Slate Virginia offers:
• eep familiarity with Arlington County Circuit Court procedures
• Experience preparing cases that require mandatory hearings
• Careful petition and affidavit preparation tailored to Arlington practice
• Hands-on guidance for clients navigating the courthouse on hearing day

Expungement and record sealing involve detailed statutory requirements, and Arlington’s approach makes proper preparation especially important.

Understanding Expungement and Record Sealing in Arlington County

Expungement Under Current Virginia Law

Under current Virginia law, expungement is available for certain criminal charges, including:

• Charges that were dismissed
• Charges that were nolle prosequi
• Charges resulting in acquittal
• Certain identity theft–related charges

In Arlington County, expungement petitions are filed in Arlington County Circuit Court, and a hearing is currently required in every expungement case. This means petitioners must be prepared to appear before a Circuit Court judge and demonstrate why expungement is appropriate under Virginia law.

Record Sealing Under the New Clean Slate Law (Effective July 1, 2026)

Virginia’s new Clean Slate record-sealing law will significantly expand the ability to shield criminal records from public view, including certain convictions for the first time.

While Arlington County has not yet finalized its procedures for record sealing petitions, it is expected that the process will closely resemble current expungement practice. That may include:

• Filing petitions in Arlington Circuit Court
• Service on the Commonwealth’s Attorney
• Affidavits demonstrating statutory eligibility and, where required, manifest injustice
• Possible hearings, depending on how Arlington implements the new law

Clean Slate Virginia is already preparing Arlington clients for record sealing so petitions can be filed promptly once the law takes effect on July 1, 2026.

What to Expect at Arlington Circuit Court

Knowing the courthouse layout and logistics helps reduce stress and avoid delays on your hearing date.

Clerk’s Office and Courtroom Locations

• The Circuit Court Clerk’s Office is located on the sixth floor.
• Circuit Court courtrooms are located on the tenth floor.
• Video display screens throughout the courthouse list daily dockets and will show your case name, courtroom number, and hearing location.

These screens are updated throughout the day, so it is important to monitor them in case courtroom assignments change.

Parking and Arrival Time

Parking in Arlington can be challenging and should be planned for in advance.

• Paid parking is available directly across the street from the courthouse.
• If that lot is full, additional paid parking is available behind the courthouse.
• Parking is not free, and you should expect to pay regardless of location.

Because parking availability is unpredictable and walking time adds up, you should arrive early. We strongly recommend arriving at least 30–40 minutes before your scheduled hearing to allow time for parking, security screening, and locating your courtroom.

How Clean Slate Virginia Handles Arlington Expungement and Sealing Cases

Our Arlington-specific approach includes:

Eligibility Review
We review your full criminal history to determine whether your case qualifies for expungement now or record sealing under the 2026 Clean Slate law.

Petition and Affidavit Preparation
Arlington cases require careful documentation. We prepare:

• Petitions
• Required affidavits
• Proposed orders
• Supporting documentation tailored to Arlington practice

Court Filing and Service
We file your case with the Arlington Circuit Court Clerk and ensure proper service on the Commonwealth’s Attorney.

Mandatory Hearing Representation
Because Arlington currently requires a hearing in every expungement case, we prepare you for what to expect and represent you in court, advocating on your behalf.

Guidance Through the Courthouse
We help clients understand where to go, how to find their case on the video screens, and how to navigate the sixth- and tenth-floor workflow efficiently.

What Expungement or Record Sealing Can Do for You

Successfully clearing or sealing a criminal record can:

• Remove eligible cases from public background checks
• Improve employment and housing opportunities
• Protect your privacy
• Reduce stigma from past charges
• Provide peace of mind and a genuine fresh start

Although Arlington has not yet announced final record-sealing procedures, early preparation is critical. Clean Slate Virginia is already building cases for Arlington clients so they are ready to move forward as soon as the law becomes effective.

Get Started With Today to be Ready for July 1, 2026

If you are ready to pursue expungement in Arlington County or want to prepare for record sealing under Virginia’s Clean Slate law, Clean Slate Virginia is here to help.

Clean Slate Virginia offers confidential consultations to review your record, explain your options, and guide you through Arlington Circuit Court with confidence.