How Much Does Expungement Cost?
Updated April 2026 · 6 min read
The total cost of expungement depends on three factors: court filing fees, whether you hire an attorney, and any required processing fees from state agencies. Here's a realistic breakdown.
Court Filing Fees
Most states charge a court filing fee to submit an expungement petition. These range from free to $500+, depending on the state and offense type.
| State | Filing Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| California | $0–$120 | Fee waiver available for low income |
| Texas | $300–$500+ | Varies by county; expunction more expensive than nondisclosure |
| Florida | $75 (FDLE) + $42 court fee | FDLE certificate of eligibility required |
| New York | $0 | Petition sealing has no filing fee |
| Illinois | $0–$120 | Varies by circuit court; many waive fees |
| Pennsylvania | $132.50 (standard) | Per offense in some counties |
| Ohio | $50–$300+ | Filing fee plus $50 investigative fee |
| Michigan | $0 (automatic) / $50 (petition) | Automatic expungement is free |
| New Jersey | $0 | Free eCourts online filing |
| Tennessee | $350 TBI fee | One of the highest state agency fees in the country |
| Colorado | $65–$224 | Depends on offense; marijuana expungement is free |
| Nevada | $100–$250 | Varies by court |
| Georgia | $25–$50 | Relatively low for non-conviction restriction |
Attorney Fees
Hiring an attorney to handle your expungement is optional in most states but can significantly improve your odds of success and reduce processing time. Attorney fees typically range from:
- Simple misdemeanor expungement: $500–$1,500
- Felony expungement: $1,500–$4,000+
- Complex cases with hearings: $3,000–$8,000+
Some attorneys offer flat-fee expungement services. In competitive markets (California, Texas), you can find attorneys handling straightforward cases for $750–$1,200 all-in (including court fees).
How to Get Expungement for Free or Low Cost
1. Free Legal Aid Organizations
Many states have legal aid organizations that handle expungements for free for income-qualifying applicants. Search for "[your state] legal aid expungement" or visit LawHelp.org for state-specific resources.
2. Law School Clinics
Many law schools run expungement clinics where law students (supervised by licensed attorneys) handle petitions for free. Contact your nearest law school's clinical program.
3. Expungement Events
Many counties hold free expungement fairs — community events where attorneys volunteer to help eligible people file petitions on the spot. Search "[your county] expungement clinic" or "[your city] record clearing event."
4. Court Fee Waivers
If you cannot afford the filing fee, most states allow you to request a fee waiver (also called an "in forma pauperis" application). Ask the clerk for the fee waiver form when you file your petition.
5. File Pro Se (Without an Attorney)
In states with straightforward processes — Illinois, New Jersey, Michigan — it is very feasible to file your own expungement petition without an attorney. The courts provide form packets. The risk is making procedural errors that delay or derail your petition.
Total Cost to Budget
For most people handling a simple misdemeanor expungement:
- DIY route: $0–$300 in fees, significant time investment
- Attorney route: $750–$2,000 total
- Free legal aid route: $0 (if income-eligible)
For felony expungement, budget $1,500–$4,000 for attorney representation, which is generally recommended given the complexity and stakes.
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