📅 2026 Update: Recent Changes to Tennessee Expungement Laws

Since the original article was written, several significant changes have occurred in Tennessee's expungement laws. These updates impact eligibility and processes, making it essential for those seeking expungement to understand the new rules. The earlier article continues further down the page, providing foundational information on expungement laws.

🌟 New Expungement Options for Violent Offenses

On April 14, 2026, Public Chapter 719 was enacted. This law allows certain violent offenses to be expunged if the individual has been pardoned. Courts will consider various factors, including the nature of the offense and public safety, when deciding on these cases.

📜 Definition of Eligible Petitioners

Effective July 1, 2026, Public Chapter 1061 defined who qualifies as an "eligible petitioner" for expungement. To be eligible, individuals must have completed all sentence requirements, including fines and restitution, and must have successfully completed a certified recovery court program.

🏛️ Updates to Drug Court Participation

Public Chapter 1105, effective July 1, 2026, changed the definition of "violent offender." This amendment allows more defendants to participate in drug court programs. This change aims to expand access to rehabilitation options for those previously excluded.

💰 Increase in Victim Assistance Fees

On May 22, 2026, Public Chapter 1115 increased the local option victims assistance assessment fee from $45 to $125. This fee is essential for supporting victims of crime and provides funding for assistance programs.

🛡️ Lifetime Protection Orders for Victims

Public Chapter 1118, effective March 22, 2026, allows victims to file for a lifetime protection order against offenders convicted of specific felony offenses in other states. This measure aims to enhance the safety and rights of victims.

📌 Key Points Summary

  • 🌟 Courts can expunge certain violent offenses if pardoned.
  • 📜 Eligible petitioners must meet specific completion criteria.
  • 🏛️ More defendants can now access drug court programs.
  • 💰 Victim assistance fee increased to $125.
  • 🛡️ Victims can file for lifetime protection orders against certain offenders.

💡 Tips for Navigating Tennessee Expungement Laws

Review the details of your situation with an attorney to understand your specific options.

📝 Understand Eligible Offenses

Familiarize yourself with the types of offenses eligible for expungement. Charges that were dismissed, resulted in a Not Guilty verdict, or were Nolle Prosequi qualify for no-cost expungement. Knowing these details can streamline your application.

⏳ Know the Processing Times

Be aware that the standard processing time for expungement orders is not specified. However, expedited processing may be available for certain circumstances like employment or adoption. This could save you valuable time.

📄 Use the Right Forms

Ensure you obtain the correct forms for your expungement application. The Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) provides the Expungement Order Form and the Partial Removal Form on its website, which are necessary for starting the process.

⚖️ Follow the Correct Process

The expungement process must be started at the local court level in the county where the arrest occurred. Following the correct procedure is essential for successful expungement.

💵 Be Aware of Additional Fees

If you have a conviction for driving under the influence (DUI), be prepared to pay an additional $50 fee for expungement. This fee supports local alcohol and mental health treatment programs.

✔️ Keep Documentation Ready

Maintain records of your completed sentence requirements, including fines and restitution. Having this documentation readily available will support your eligibility for expungement under the new laws.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

❓ What is the process to expunge a DUI conviction?

To expunge a DUI conviction, you must wait 20 years after completing your sentence. You must also have no other criminal convictions to be eligible for expungement.

📅 How can I expedite my expungement application?

You can request expedited processing for reasons like employment or adoption. This often involves contacting the local court for specific instructions.

📄 What forms do I need for expungement?

You will need the Expungement Order Form and possibly a Partial Removal Form, both available on the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation website.

💰 Are there any fees associated with expungement?

Charges that were dismissed or resulted in a Not Guilty verdict are eligible for expungement at no cost. However, DUI convictions require an additional $50 fee.

🏛️ Who can help me with the expungement process?

You can contact the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation or your local District Attorney's office for assistance with the expungement process and required forms.

📄 What if my conviction does not qualify for expungement?

If your conviction does not qualify, you may consider other legal options, such as seeking a pardon or consulting with legal professionals for further guidance.

⚖️ Recent Court Cases Related to Expungement

Recent court rulings have clarified aspects of Tennessee's expungement laws, particularly involving eligibility criteria and processes. These decisions help shape how expungements are handled in the state.

For more recent rulings, feel free to browse more rulings on the news page.

End of October 2026 Update





Tennessee expungements are characterized by the removal of a record pertaining to an arrest or conviction relating to a crime. According to Tennessee expungement law, an expunged record does not exist as far as the general public is concerned. The person receiving an expungement has the legal right to deny the existence or their participation in any crime relating to the expunged record. 

However, Tennessee expungement law allows for the expunged records to be used in court proceedings involving impeachment or when judging the character of the person when serving as a witness in court. 


Tennessee Expungement Laws

The expunged records are not completely obliterated. They are available to an attorney upon request for criminal court cases. These non-public records can also be used to determine sentencing in future criminal cases. Tennessee expungement law does not literally erase the criminal history of a person. It just gives them the right to keep their history out of public record and gives them the right to deny anything involving the case on record.

If the person whose record was expunged acts as a plaintiff in a civil case involving actions that took place in the expunged record, the expunged record may be brought up in the civil trial. Guilty pleas and guilty verdicts are also permissible in civil trials despite the record being subject to Tennessee expungement and removed from public record.



Tennessee Expungement Eligibility

There are certain circumstances that play a role in whether or not a person may have their record expunged. An expungement may be granted if:

The person in question has been exonerated by the governor of Tennessee. People who receive executive pardons are not eligible for a Tennessee expungement. A person whose charges were dismissed or dropped may receive an expungement. Tennessee expungement law will not grant an expungement to anyone charged with a sex crime even if it is dismissed. 

Expungement will also be granted if the charge was dismissed, a no true bill was entered by a jury, a not guilty verdict was reached by either a judge or jury, the person was arrested and released without any charges placed against them, the person successfully completed a pretrial diversion program, sentences have been completed or bond requirements have expired, the person submitted an expungement petition after a nolle prosequi was entered by the court, or the person only has one charge that took place before age 21. However, the crime cannot be a sex crime.

Access to Expunged Records

Expunged records not pertaining to sex crimes or crimes child services must be notified about will be removed from public access. Intelligence agencies, the court system, district attorneys, and investigators will still have access to all parts of the expunged files. Tennessee expungement law does not call for court decisions and opinions to be removed from public access. 



How to get an Expungement



Those who have been pardoned do not need to file a petition under Tennessee expungement law. All others will be required to petition the court that handles expungements. The court may consult with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation to send the expungement request to the expunged criminal offender and pretrial diversion database.

The petition must contain all personal information such as date of birth, address and social security number. All information regarding the arrest, offense and court case must be included. If the person was acquitted or no charges were filed, there is no fee for the petition. Those who were required to complete the pretrial diversion program must pay a $50 fee.