Virginia law will automatically seal certain misdemeanor cases that resulted in acquittal, nolle prosequi, or dismissal, provided the individual has no convictions or recent arrests. This process begins on July 1, 2026, and aims to improve record accuracy for eligible individuals. The Department of State Police will identify qualifying cases annually and share the information with courts for sealing.
The automatic sealing process begins on July 1, 2026.
Cases resulting in acquittal, nolle prosequi, or dismissal with no convictions or recent arrests, and not involving deferred dismissals after guilt findings.
No, only those that meet specific criteria, including no convictions and no recent arrests, will be sealed automatically.
The Department of State Police will identify eligible cases annually and share the list electronically with the courts for sealing.