📅 2026 Update: Recent Changes in Arkansas Expungement Law

Since the original article was published, there have been important changes in Arkansas expungement law and related services. Key updates include new legislation and current fees that impact how individuals can seek to seal their criminal records. The earlier article continues below this section, providing foundational knowledge about expungement in Arkansas.

📜 New Legislation: Protect Arkansas Act

In 2025, the Protect Arkansas Act went into effect. This law introduced tougher felony penalties. It includes longer prison sentences and stricter parole conditions for serious offenders.

This change affects the legal landscape for those seeking expungement as it may relate to eligibility and the seriousness of previous convictions.

💵 Current Costs for Expungement

The cost of filing an expungement petition varies by jurisdiction in Arkansas. While exact fees are not specified, they typically range from $50 to over $300. Additionally, individuals may face attorney fees that range from $400 to $4,000, depending on case complexity.

There are also potential costs for obtaining certified court records and other necessary documentation.

📅 Processing Times for Petitions

Processing times for expungement petitions can vary widely. Individuals might wait from a few weeks to several months. The duration often depends on case complexity and the court's schedule.

This timeline is crucial for those looking to expunge their records promptly.

📑 Eligibility for Expungement

Eligibility rules are essential to understand. Individuals can seek expungement right after charges are dismissed or they receive a not guilty verdict. For misdemeanors, individuals can file immediately after completing their sentence.

However, for felony convictions, there is typically a five-year waiting period after completing the sentence, including any probation or parole.

📌 Key Points Summary

  • 🚨 New laws may affect expungement eligibility.
  • 💰 Filing fees range from $50 to over $300.
  • ⏳ Processing times vary from weeks to months.
  • ✔️ Eligibility depends on the type of conviction and completion of sentences.

💡 Tips for Navigating Arkansas Expungement

Reviewing your personal situation with an attorney is essential for understanding your options.

📄 Understand the Forms Required

Arkansas mandates using the Uniform Petition to Seal for expungement requests. This standardized form simplifies the process but must be filled out correctly. Make sure to obtain it from the Arkansas Crime Information Center’s website.

📅 Know When to File

There is no specific deadline for filing an expungement petition in Arkansas. However, you must meet eligibility criteria, such as waiting periods after completing your sentence. Knowing when to file can help you take advantage of your eligibility sooner.

💸 Budget for Additional Costs

In addition to court filing fees, anticipate extra costs for certified copies of court records and fingerprinting. Having a clear budget can prevent unexpected expenses during the expungement process.

🏛️ Keep Track of Processing Times

Be aware that processing times can vary significantly. It’s best to stay informed about the court’s schedule and any potential delays. Regular follow-ups can help keep your petition on track.

📞 Seek Available Resources

Consider using free legal aid services. Organizations like Arkansas Legal Aid can provide guidance and support for those seeking expungement. Explore these options to save on legal costs.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

🤔 What is the process for sealing a felony conviction in Arkansas?

To seal a felony conviction, individuals must wait five years after completing their sentence, including probation or parole. They must then file a petition using the Uniform Petition to Seal.

🔍 Can I expunge a charge that was dismissed?

Yes, individuals can file for expungement immediately after charges are dismissed or they receive a not guilty verdict. This allows for quicker removal of the record.

📅 How long does it take to process an expungement petition?

Processing times can vary widely. It can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on case complexity and court schedules.

📋 What documents do I need to file for expungement?

You will need to complete the Uniform Petition to Seal and may need certified copies of your court records. Additional documents may be required based on your specific case.

📞 Is there any help for individuals who cannot afford an attorney?

Yes, individuals can reach out to organizations like Arkansas Legal Aid for help with expungement. They provide guidance without charging legal fees.

📜 Are there any offenses that cannot be expunged in Arkansas?

Certain serious offenses, including sex offenses and crimes involving victims such as children, may not be eligible for expungement. It's important to verify eligibility based on the specific charge.

⚖️ Recent Cases Impacting Expungement in Arkansas

Recent court rulings have influenced expungement laws in Arkansas, particularly regarding eligibility and procedural requirements. These cases highlight the legal landscape surrounding criminal records and the importance of understanding your rights.

For further updates, you can check more rulings on the news page.

End of October 2026 Update






The State of Arkansas allows its citizens to expunge their criminal records under certain circumstances. Under Arkansas expungement code, the term "expunge" is defined as the defendant being completely exonerated of an arrest or conviction. As such, the use of prior criminal records against the defendant shall not be used to deprive the individual of any civil rights or liberties of the defendant. 



Therefore, an expunged record renders use of that record of a particular criminal act as unlawfully discriminatory. This could be of great importance to someone who wishes to be fully reintegrated into society without the apparent stigma of carrying a criminal record for minor non-violent offenses.



Arkansas expungement law does not allow for the erasure of criminal records pertaining to the conviction of crimes against minors, or that which resulted in death, serious injury, or sex offenses. Under this definition, a person who was convicted of a felony can expunge records of non-violent felonies. The chances of successful criminal record expungement in felony cases are less than in the case of non-violent misdemeanors.

Arkansas Expungement Law


Arkansas law on expungement also stipulates that a person seeking expungement must have completed probation and paid all of the fines before becoming eligible to apply for a motion for criminal record expungement. Arkansas expungement law grants more leniency to non-violent first-time offenders. 



Minors convicted of non-violent felonies under the age of 18 are also eligible for motions to have records expunged. Expungement is also granted to anyone whose arrest did not lead to criminal prosecution or whose case was dismissed. Non-violent drug offenders may be granted motions for expungement in Arkansas as long as they do not have any previous conviction for delivering controlled substances to minors.



Arkansas law automatically seals criminal records in cases in which there was no guilty verdict. All pertinent arrest warrants, docket sheets, petitions, and any other documents may be expunged. Therefore all civil rights of innocent individuals and individuals with granted motions of expungement are given back their civil rights. However, an expungement does not remove the fact that someone had been convicted for all purposes.



The purpose of expungement is primarily for the betterment of oneself. It is a tool to help non-violent offenders to reintegrate smoothly into society. For example, a person applying for a firearms license in Arkansas with an expunged felony conviction may not be allowed to have a firearm. 



The restoration of rights and privileges as defined in the act of expungement has limitations. The extent to which these rights are limited has been determined by reason. A convicted felon with an expunged record of that conviction has the liberty to become a police officer, but will not likely be able to get the firearms permit necessary to become a law enforcement officer.



Arkansas expungment law is interesting because its definition of expungement includes notions of restoration of civil rights and liberties. However, the extent to which has not yet been determined by precedent. All in all, the expungments laws of Arkansas are reasonable enough to avoid judicial challenges in the future