Vermont Pardon/Expungement Process

⚖️ Vermont Expungement & Record Sealing Laws

In Vermont, criminal record relief is available through both expungement and record sealing, though Vermont significantly changed its laws in 2025. The state now relies more heavily on sealing rather than full expungement for many offenses.

📘 Key Difference

🧹 Expungement

An expunged record is essentially erased from public access and treated as though it never occurred in most situations.

🔒 Sealing

A sealed record is hidden from the public, employers, and most background checks, but law enforcement and courts may still access it.

✅ What Can Be Expunged in Vermont?

As of the July 1, 2025 law changes:

🗑️ Eligible for Expungement

A conviction may be expunged if:

  • The offense is no longer considered a crime
  • The sentence and supervision are complete
  • All restitution and court surcharges are paid

This is governed under 13 V.S.A. § 7602(b).

🔒 What Can Be Sealed?

📄 Misdemeanors

Many misdemeanors may be sealed if:

  • At least 3 years have passed since completion of the sentence
  • All restitution and surcharges are paid
  • The prosecutor does not prove sealing would harm the interests of justice

Certain serious misdemeanors are excluded.

⚖️ Some Felonies

Certain qualifying felonies may be sealed if:

  • At least 7 years have passed
  • The sentence is completed
  • Restitution and fees are paid
  • There are no pending criminal charges

Only specific felonies listed in Vermont law qualify.

🚫 Offenses Commonly Excluded

Generally, Vermont does not allow sealing or expungement for:

  • Serious violent crimes
  • Most sex offenses
  • Certain repeat offenses
  • DUI offenses in many circumstances
  • Crimes requiring sex offender registration

Eligibility depends heavily on the exact statute and criminal history.

👶 Youthful Offender Relief

Vermont has historically provided broader relief opportunities for crimes committed by people under age 21. Some youthful offenses may qualify for automatic or easier sealing procedures.

🤖 Automatic Sealing for Dismissed Charges

✅ Dismissed charges now receive stronger protection

Under current Vermont law:

  • Newly dismissed charges are generally automatically sealed after 60 days
  • Older dismissed cases may still require filing a petition

📝 How to Apply

A person typically files a petition in the court where the case occurred.

The court may review:

  • Time since conviction
  • Completion of sentence
  • Payment of restitution
  • Criminal history
  • Public safety concerns

Forms are available through the Vermont Judiciary.

⏳ Waiting Period After Denial

If a petition is denied:

  • The person usually must wait 2 years before filing again
  • Unless the court allows an earlier refiling

👑 Pardons in Vermont

A pardon is different from expungement.

In Vermont:

  • Pardons are granted by the Governor
  • They are relatively rare
  • A pardon may improve employment and civil rights restoration
  • A pardon does not automatically erase the criminal record

Applicants generally must show rehabilitation and significant time since conviction.

📚 Main Vermont Laws

Vermont Statutes

  • 13 V.S.A. § 7601–7610
    Expungement and sealing laws

Major Recent Change

  • Act 60 (2025)
    Expanded sealing opportunities and revised eligibility standards

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